Jesus Christ is the world's Number One Problem. Behind the tangled skein of world politics, the intricacies of its fragile economy, the confusions of its conflicting religions, its all pervasive hedonism, lies its intensive hatred of the Son of God. His crucifixion two millennia ago was not an isolated parochial squabble; it was the world revealed in its "enmity against God" (cf. Rom. 8:7).
Christ is the world's First Problem because He is constantly calling the world to judgment. His cross is our cross, and the world hates the idea. He who had not where to lay His head, who died penniless with no money in the pockets of His seamless robe, calls the wealthy to judgment. The pleasure-loving masses resent Him for saying "I seek not Mine own will, but the will of the Father who hath sent Me" (John 5:30). That might not be so bad but then He has to add also, "If any one will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for My sake, the same shall save it. For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away?" (Luke 9:23-25). You can't drive your new Rolls Royce through the streets where the poor live without remembering that. And it hurts for the Holy Spirit constantly to remind you of Him.
The world was not converted when He died and rose again; but He has given His followers the message that will convert any individual who will listen with a humble, honest heart. The latent enmity in every "carnal mind" will flare up continually until the final confrontation between "the seal of God" and "the mark of the beast." For now, it's the greatest joy one can know to be a humble channel through which flows that "water of life" message.
If you believe in Jesus, you are caught up in the great controversy between Him and Satan. There's no furlough from the front lines of the conflict. But remember, it's a sin to be afraid. Be loyal to your Savior and you will sense the tension even today. Remember, you are not alone. Believe Him when He says, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen" (Matt. 28:20).
Copyright © 2009 by Robert J. Wieland.
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