Articles » Collision with Reality

It is no great accomplishment to figure out that our present world is facing many sobering, perilous obstacles. These challenges threaten our peace and our very way of life. In the midst of growing economic tensions, social upheaval and recent political developments, large numbers of people are becoming concerned and even fearful of what is to come. People usually align themselves, although often subconsciously, into three primary categories in response.

Ø The Optimist – believes things have been bad before, and that we will eventually work through all our present difficulties.

Ø The Pessimist – feels that everything is falling apart; that things have gone too far already and there is very little hope of any real or lasting solutions.

Ø The Apathetic – has a lack of real concern either way; an indifference concerning crucial issues. Unfortunately, many of us have been lulled into this dangerous position and are not even aware of it!

In addition to these three responses, there is a fourth possible position, held by a very small percentage of people:

Ø The Realist – comprehends the facts and reality of the situation; seeks a practical solution.

The purpose of this brief pamphlet is to provide a realistic appraisal and a practical solution to today’s problems. These basis for my conclusions is the teachings and prophecies of the Bible, which I believe gives a true picture of where mankind is headed.

The Economic Situation

Present economic tensions are most clearly evidenced by instability in currencies, markets and governments around the world. The chief causes are uncontrolled spending and debt, inflation, excessive government control and corruption. In many parts of the world, people also contend daily with widespread poverty, disease and famine. Even in more affluent nations it is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain a reasonable standard of living. Generations of materialistic living, coupled with fast-paced living and easy credit, have led millions away from true happiness and security into uncontrolled debt and higher levels of stress and unfulfilled lives. The Bible speaks very plainly about these issues:

“All a man’s labor is for his mouth, and yet the appetite (lit. ‘soul’) is not satisfied.” (Ecclesiastes 6:7)

“And Jesus said to them, ‘Beware and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions.” (Luke 12:15)

“… the love of money is the root of all sorts of evil …” (I Timothy 6:10)

“for what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” (Mark 8:36)

Social Decline

Our generation has witnessed a drastic shift in values and standards of morality. For many, there is no longer a clear distinction between right and wrong. We have been gradually led to tolerate beliefs and practices that are clearly unbiblical, unrighteous and immoral.

The primary causes of this shift are relativism and humanism. Relativism would have us believe that there are no absolute standards for right and wrong. Everything is subject to personal preference or opinion, individual circumstances or socially accepted norms. Humanism, on the other hand, teaches us that man is basically good, and that we should rely only upon ourselves. It is declared that we as human beings have the capacity, intellect and technology to resolve all the issues of live and problems of the world, apart from God.

Both of these philosophies have gradually pervaded our modern culture, and as a result, it has become easier for people to drift away from God. Within such a confusing maze, any semblance of absolutes has been deteriorated in our society as a whole. Please consider carefully again what the Word of God says about this issue:

“The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God’.” (Proverbs 14:1)

“He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the righteous, both of them alike are an abomination unto the Lord.” (Proverbs 17:15)

“Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness; who substitute bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter! Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and clever in their own sight!” (Isaiah 5:20-21)

“For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters, to hew for themselves cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.” (Jeremiah 2:13)

“See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ.” (Colossians 2:8)

Political Developments

Gradual events are unfolding to set the stage for global chaos in many ways. Political maneuvering and alliances will undoubtedly contribute greatly to this in the days to come. Already these alliances demonstrate the frailty of hopes for lasting peace in the world. Mankind truly seems bent on continuing the cycle of war and self-destruction.

The Solution – The Kingdom of God on Earth

In order to find a real solution, we must first realize where we are presently in terms of God’s overall plan or purpose. Christians all over the world believe that we are quickly approaching the end of this current age and the second coming of Jesus Christ. World developments and fulfilled prophecies all point to a real collision with reality looming on the horizon of mankind. The Bible clearly teaches that a terrible period of crisis and tribulation will be coming upon the earth in the end times. Yet, at the same time, there will be a tremendous revival and restoration in the true church, the Body of Christ.

God has always longed to display His own character and kingdom in men’s hearts throughout the entire world. He has also given us a free will to choose between good and evil; to choose between going our own way or loving and obeying God. In this present outpouring of the Holy Spirit, many believers are realizing that God’s solution to raise up the church as an accurate and full expression of His love, power and glory. He is preparing a pure, loving bride who is ready for the coming of the bridegroom! Then He will hasten and usher in the day of God; the return and reign of Christ upon the earth!

By memory we quote “Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven.” In truth, many of us either don’t believe this, or we don’t allow it to change our everyday lives. Mankind will not continue on the same as always. Our present difficulties will not be resolved by human ingenuity, science or technology. We are, in reality, in the midst of the unfolding eternal purpose of God for the consummation of the ages. The Church of Jesus Christ will come forth triumphant and victorious, even if it be through suffering and persecution. As things in the world continue to crumble around us, believers who are in tune with God and His present purposes will shine forth as a beacon of light to a dark and dying humanity.

In the days to come, the Church will increasingly emerge in the following ways:

Ø Believers will learn to rebuild the Church on a proper foundation – the life and teachings of Christ Himself and His apostles, not our self-made religion, theology, and traditions.

Ø Christians will also become more closely knit together in every aspect of life, in order to demonstrate to the world, the kingdom of God in our midst.

Ø These times will produce unparalleled opportunities for the demonstration and proclamation of the gospel of Christ. The Body of Christ will rise up to form a bridge between the kingdom of God and the suffering, chaotic world system.

Ø The Church will become a stronger prophetic voice to the world on spiritual, social and moral issues. A clear trumpet will be sounded on many issues which are raving our nation and world today.

As God completes His purposes in and through the Church, the world will then behold the glorious return of Christ to the earth. He will come in flaming fire with all His saints to judge the world and to establish His righteous kingdom on the earth. All other kingdoms and enemies of the cross will be subdued and conquered. Jesus will reign in righteousness and truth! “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He will reign forever and ever” (Revelation 11:15).

All the systems and philosophies of this world, which are shaking even now, will be shattered by the brightness and power of His return. Only that which has been built on an eternal foundation will stand in that day. The Bible says, “We shall all stand before the judgment seat of God … and each one of us will give account of himself to God” (Romans 14:10, 12).

Your Decision Today is Critical

What will matter on that day is not our money or social status; not even our church membership, good morals or good deeds. No man on earth will be able to conceal the truth of his past conduct or motives. Everything will be brought in a blazing light, and suddenly no one will have arguments or excuses. The reality of God’s sovereignty and holiness will be fully manifested. The depth of humility and the sacrificial love of Christ will be clearly seen and understood. Truly “every knee shall bow … and every tongue confess Jesus as Lord, to the glory of the Father” (Philippians 2:10-11).

On that day, our only hope or assurance is to be “found in Christ, not having a righteousness of my own … but that which is through faith in Christ.” Only the grace of God and the atoning blood of Christ, shed for our sins, will satisfy God when we stand before Him.

Today, you will make a choice to either receive the truth of this message, or else to ignore or reject it. Do not be deceived into waiting or agreeing halfheartedly. God longs to forgive you right now, and to fill your heart and life with His presence and a new purpose. Yield your heart to Him completely, this very moment, in repentance of sin and faith in Christ.

“God is now declaring to men that all everywhere should repent, because He has fixed a day in which He will judge the world through a Man who He has appointed, having furnished proof to all men by raising Him from the dead” (Acts 17:30-31).

For further information or assistance in these important matters, please contact: dvbatcheller@zoho.com