Tunisia, Egypt, Morocco, Libya, Bahrain. These countries and others have been experiencing sudden and astounding protests, clashes with their governments, and demands for governmental change. Political upheaval and changes to long-standing regimes is the order of the day. A few thoughts that come to mind from a Biblical perspective concerning these important events:
1. It is further evidence that we live in a flawed, fallen, sinful world. The sinful nature of man leads to corruption, injustice, and hunger for power. The history of mankind has been replete with strife, injustice and raging wars. These facts should scream out to the individual who believes that humanity is basically good at its core. Humanity is sinful at its core, is in rebellion against God, and is in need of the redeeming grace of Jesus Christ. As Christians we should always seek for justice in this world, as well as peace, when at all possible. While we seek for that, however, we know that true, perfect and everlasting peace will come only when our Savior returns.
2. How comforting it is for God’s people to know that God is in control. There are great and legitimate concerns over who will ultimately gain power in Egypt. How will these sweeping changes in the Middle East affect us as Americans? How will Christians who live in these lands be treated under these new administrations? We take strength in the words of King Nebuchadnezzar concerning our great God, “And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and He doeth according to His will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay His hand, or say unto Him, what doest Thou?” Let us be in prayer that God would show mercy in these nations that are experiencing upheaval.
3. Mubarak was in power for decades in Egypt, as has been Qaddafi in Libya, and the monarchy in Bahrain. Once seemingly permanent regimes are now revealing great vulnerability. In contrast, how glorious it is to know that there is only one kingdom that is truly permanent. That is the kingdom of King Jesus. Hebrews 12:28 says, “Wherefore, we receiving a kingdom that cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.” Babylon, Medo-Persia, Rome, Alexander the Great, Napoleon, and the like all have one thing in common: they were great and powerful for a little while but eventually all fell. As followers of Christ, we are a part of a kingdom that will never be overthrown and will experience complete victory over all enemies. Let us be faithful to be all that we can be to serve and labor in this kingdom for the glory of the King, Jesus Christ.
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