Blog: Max Dawson
7/14/16
It was the only sin God specifically mentioned when He spoke of the destruction of the world in Noah’s time. I am sure there were many other sins that brought on the great flood. But violence is the only one noted in .
The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence. So God looked upon the earth, and indeed it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted their way on the earth. And God said to Noah, “The end of all flesh has come before Me, for the earth is filled with violence through them; and behold, I will destroy them with the earth.”
Our nation has seen too much violence. Wicked, unlawful violent acts from any source is unjustified. It is an abomination. It can bring the judgment of God. It did indeed bring judgment in Noah’s time.
What is the answer to the violence in our country? Dozens of voices are heard. But are there any real solutions?
Some say there are no solutions. Others tell us to answer violence with violence. But that only makes things worse.
Until we recognize that violence–and all sin–is a heart problem, there will be very little progress. Another verse from Noah’s time will help us understand. Listen to .
Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
Evil hearts produce violence. They did in Noah’s day. They do in ours. Note what Jesus said in the opening line of .
“Out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders…”
Evil hearts produce evil thoughts. Evil thoughts produce evil deeds–even murder.
It is a heart problem. Is there a solution?
THE FINAL WORD
The solution is found in a person. There is one in the Bible called the “Prince of Peace.” He is the one of whom Isaiah spoke in .
For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Jesus is the great Prince who brings peace to our hearts. He changes hearts. When hearts are changed hatred dissipates. There is no room for hatred and Jesus in the same heart.
The Isaiah text speaks of the increase of His government and peace. It will spread and has no end. We need to crown him as Prince of Peace in our own hearts first, and then proclaim the good news of His Kingdom reign to others.
That is the answer. The only lasting answer.
Peace to you my dear friends,
–Max