The Hope of the World

The abuses mounted, and anger continued to build. There had been reforms, but some felt that little progress had been made in combating poverty and curbing repression. By the late 19^th century, some became convinced that anarchy was the only hope.

This fascination with anarchy was based on a denial of authority. As scholar Alex Butterworth has described, their ultimate aim was “to usher in a society of perfect beings; a heaven on earth.” This meant destroying the old order so a perfect world could emerge.

Anarchists conceived complex plots that led to bombings and assassinations. Although they succeeded in causing chaos, death, and destruction, they utterly failed in their vision to create a “perfect world.”

Their efforts remind us of the people who built the Tower of Babel, a monument to human pride and achievement. God put all their human efforts in context by confusing their language, so that the project was abandoned.

In our time, there are many different theories about government and politics. As believers, we must remember that we are called to be ambassadors for God’s Kingdom. Jesus said we’re to be the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world” (Matthew 5:13-14).

However, we are far from perfect. We must remember that all of us “have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” and that “there is none righteous, not even one” (Romans 3:10, 23).

In your life, seek to use the resources God has given you to make a difference. Help the poor and needy. Pray for the sick. Share the Word.

But always remember that you’ll only find perfection in Christ. The hope of the world is not in governments, but in the Gospel.