A man I deeply respected because of his deep faith and dedication to the Word of God has died. His name is Ravi Zacharias. I’m sure I’m not spouting hyperbole when I say he was probably the greatest Christian apologist of our time. An apologist is someone who offers an argument in defense of something controversial. To think of Christianity as something “controversial” says a lot about what has happened to our society. Time after time Ravi would give common sense and clear explanations about things like faith, sin, Jesus, God….basically anything having to do with the Christian faith. He especially liked to debate atheists in the audience and usually made them look quite silly. His answers were so well thought out that few dared contest him. Those who did were in for something truly challenging.
Unfortunately, he always had a steady supply of non-believers and doubters to choose from. In fact, the supply of non-believers or doubters seems to be growing in the United States. As the country depends more on itself and as worldly enticements take up more of our time, God is slowly (quickly by some standards) being pushed out. Some even want the banner “In God We Trust” to be taken off of our currency because it no longer applies. It’s a sad commentary, but it’s certainly not hopeless.
There is lots of good happening around the world also. Ravi was an example of that. People studying the universe are starting to acknowledge that there must be a Creator behind everything because it’s much too orderly to be born from chaos. Countries, once almost devoid of Christianity, are exploding in the Christian faith, even underground. And God’s Word is starting to be taken more seriously by some academics with an open mind because its pages ring true. God’s Word is powerful and its making a come-back. Many are finally learning that “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, (2 Timothy 3:16). God is still in control and His unchanging truths are still as relevant today as they have always been.
I firmly believe that this country will be turned around too. The truth is too hard to ignore. But to make that happen, more of us need to be standing up for that truth. “Sanctify them in truth! (John 17:17). Our scripture in 2 Timothy 3 continues in verse 17 to tell us the reason for Scripture, “that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.” Just because many in this country no longer rely on God’s Word doesn’t mean you should follow their example, in fact, if anything, it means you need to be even more dedicated in your studies so that you can become competent, equipped for every good work. It’s our time to shine Christ’s light in a country that has effectively snuffed it out in many places. If your brave enough, God will instill in your heart the truth so that you may be properly “equipped.” From John 16:13, When the Spirit comes, (and He has) He will guide you into all the truth, for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak, and He will declare to you the things that are to come.”
Prince of Peace should be known for its belief in the inerrancy of Scripture. All of its members should be making Bible study an important part of their day. The truth is our defense against the ills of this world, but to be equipped and ready, we have to be trained. God’s truth will do that for you. Trust in it. Cherish it, Believe it! In the land of the free, understand that true freedom comes from truth, John 8:32, And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Please pray with me:
Heavenly Father, we long to know all that you have to teach us. Help us to find spending time in the study of Your Word fulfilling and meaningful. Teach us how to stand up for truth and instill in us the courage to make a kingdom difference because of our dedication towards the truth. Thank you for allowing us this most humbling opportunity and help us to surrender all we are to Your leading. Amen.
