Is The Violence Getting Worse

The murder of 26 and the wounding of 20 more in a small town church in Texas has caused me to reflect on the increase in violence in and around houses of worship in recent years. I have to ask the question, is the violence getting worse?

I believe that we are living in the last days and that the violence is getting worse and will continue to get worse.  Not just in the churches but in society as a whole.  There are more murders, domestic violence, suicides, drive-by shootings and, gang violence, than ever before. Jesus predicted that this would happen in the last days.  In Mark Chapter 13 verses 12 & 13 we read, And brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death.  And you will be hated by all for my name's sake.  But the one who endures to the end will be saved (NKJV).

The violence against Christians and churches is getting worse.  We as Christians must recognize this fact and be more aware than ever before.  The days of the church being a sacred sanctuary have passed.  Christians must understand that the violence that has plagued the world since Cain killed Able has now entered the sanctuary. What church members must do now is prepare.

There is a Biblical basis for ensuring that your sanctuary is secure. In 1 Chronicles there were Gate Keepers that guarded the entrances to the Temple.  In Nehemiah there was a guard posted day and night.  In Matthew Christ told us to be shrewd as snakes and innocent as doves. We must be vigilant as the violence gets worse.

Make sure that your people are aware of their surroundings and that everyone knows what to do if violence comes to your church.  Just a little preparation can save many lives.