The Rising Tide of Lawlessness: A Christian Perspective

In the Bible, lawlessness is depicted as rebellion against God’s divine order, a rejection of His righteous norms for human conduct.

 

For followers of Jesus Christ, we are to submit to God’s laws and submit to the governments which He has instituted (Romans 13:1-2), however, when a nation descends into anarchy, not only does it disobey the rule of humanity but defies the moral foundation set up by the Creator.

 

This understanding brings to the forefront a plethora of distinct differences playing out throughout the United States; most especially, in the cities of Washington, D.C., and Chicago, where the presence or absence of enforced legislation measures the outcomes of order and anarchy.

 

Biblical Warnings Against Lawlessness

 

When human societies turn away from God’s truth, chaos ensues, as we can so readily observe in societies where lawlessness runs rampant.

 

One of the best verses is Matthew 24:12, where Jesus says, “Because of the increase of wickedness [lawlessness], the love of most will grow cold.” In this verse, lawlessness is associated with a decline in a spiritual manner such that disrespect towards God’s law humiliates love, concern, and fellowship.

 

A nation that strays from God’s truth risks not only social disintegration but also causing the heart to be hardened so that restoration and reconciliation cannot be achieved.

 

Lawlessness in Today’s World

 

The contrast between Washington, D.C., and Chicago captures the true effect of law enforcement and civic commitment to order.

 

In Washington, D.C., recent efforts in enforcing laws have seen a dramatic decline in crime with police prioritizing the full enforcement of order, stifling illegal businesses, securing buildings and saving lives. This is the same as the biblical principle in Romans 13:4, which states, “For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason…”

 

When leaders implement and enforce good laws, then they are the tools of God in furthering peace and protecting the weak.

 

Conversely, Chicago has seen a surge in violence, with reports of rampant crime, including shootings and gang activity. This reflects a breakdown in the enforcement of laws, allowing lawlessness to thrive. The absence of consistent consequences for wrongdoing creates an environment where chaos reigns, and communities suffer.

 

This mirrors the warning in Matthew 24:12, where lawlessness leads to a chilling of love and trust among people. Families live in fear, businesses struggle, and hope dwindles in areas where lawlessness goes unchecked.

 

A Christian Response to Lawlessness

 

As Christians, we are called to be salt and light in a world prone to lawlessness (Matthew 5:13-16).

 

This is the call to pray for our leaders according to 1 Timothy 2:1-2, that they may govern with wisdom and justice to promote peace. It also means living lives that reflect God’s righteousness, showing love and compassion even in chaotic times.

 

For those Christians in Chicago, they have an opportunity to act in defense of justice, invite community to restore balance, and declare the hope of Christ, whose redemptive power can heal broken hearts and communities. For the believers outside of Chicago, it is an opportunity to stand in faith with our brothers and sisters for the sake of their city.

 

In places like Washington, D.C., where law and order are being reestablished, we owe thanks to such leaders who honor the law and pray for their ongoing vigor. All the while, we must also be vigilant, for the cause of lawlessness never sleeps, trying to eliminate God’s truth.

 

Conclusion

 

Lawlessness isn’t just a social issue but also a spiritual issue, one that is rooted in disobedience against God’s order. The theater of Washington, D.C.’s renewed calm and Chicago’s ongoing bloodshed is a modern parable of the benefits of upholding or neglecting the law.

 

As the people of God, we are instructed to stand on the truth of Scripture, intercede for America, and strive diligently to manifest God’s justice and compassion. In doing so, we are able to be instruments of His peace in a world desperate for order, trusting Jesus will at last triumph over all lawlessness when He returns again.

 

“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14

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