We live in a day when it’s hard to get someone’s attention. Research indicates a person’s average attention span is 8.25 seconds, which is 4.25 seconds less than in the year 2000. One common denominator in diminished attention spans is the constant bombardment of information via the internet, social media, and smartphones. People have become so distracted that getting or maintaining their attention is nearly impossible. As people are exposed to increasing levels of graphic images and entertainment, society as a whole is going through a desensitizing process. As a result, we’re collectively losing our sense of fear and urgency about situations that should get our attention and response. Jesus warns us about the days ahead getting so bad, that people’s hearts will fail them because of fear of what’s coming. God will get the world’s attention. Luke 21:26
I’ve preached the gospel in ministry settings and on the streets. The glaring difference between the two is the response of the people, who generally want to hear the truth in a Christian fellowship. But in the public square, they range from apathetic to dismissive and sometimes hostile to our message. When I preach the good news, it should get the attention of people who pass by. Instead, the overarching response is avoidance. Over time, I’ve learned this ignoring has less to do with the distraction of earbuds and smartphones, and everything to do with a general lack of fear of God. When you tell them, “God’s wrath is coming,” they won’t accept it because they have a distorted view of God.
The God that’s widely presented is one of our own making. He is part Santa Claus, genie, and yes-man who exists to validate us and enhance our lives. The world’s concept of God is a Hallmark card version or a helpless plastic baby in a manger. For fear of losing crowds, many so-called ministries are reluctant to present the true Jesus, so they create ‘safe spaces’ to explore faith. They have festivals, programs, and attractions galore to win public opinion while presenting a false Jesus to would-be disciples. It’s no wonder so many people have a distorted view of God when many churches don’t teach people to fear Him but present Him like a cuddly old granddad who winks at sin. Proverbs 9:10 Although many churches preach a different Jesus to fill seats, numerous remnant biblical churches won’t compromise the truth of God’s word. This is crucial gospel work because we must warn people about the wrath to come.
“It is a great mistake to give a man who has not been convicted of sin, certain passages that were never meant for him. The Law is what he needs. Do not offer the consolation of the gospel until he sees and knows he is guilty before God.”
D.L. Moody
As a follower of Christ, I think about the perilous times ahead for everyone in the world, and it compels me to warn them. I understand that as people go about their busy day, they are distracted, and most have given little thought to what is coming upon the earth or eternity. While it’s true that the god of this age has blinded their minds to keep them from seeing the gospel, apathetic ‘Christians’ have been complicit in this by not warning people about the bad news, that is, the wrath to come. 2 Corinthians 4:4. I’m calling this exactly what it is, a Christian’s dereliction of duty. If you are a follower of Christ, it’s because of the overwhelming probability that a believer shared the gospel with you. You came to the realization that you were on the way to hell because you were offensive to a holy God, came to repentance, and were born again. The miracle of heart transformation came because someone else was obedient to God’s command to preach the gospel to you, and the Holy Spirit brought conviction of sin.
Before God sends judgment, He will always warn people. He did it in Noah’s day, and Lot’s day, when Jesus and the Apostles preached. The flood, fire from heaven, and Jerusalem’s destruction twice, were all preceded by numerous warnings to repent. Our time is no different in that God is warning the people of the world through preachers and believers that judgment is coming. Simply put, He is trying to get the world’s attention. Jesus said the nations would be in distress, and there would be pestilences, earthquakes, terrors, and great signs from heaven just prior to His return. God will get the world’s attention. I don’t know the day or hour of Jesus’ return, but I can discern our time and season like all remnant believers. Looking at the world’s current condition and the rapidly growing apostasy in many churches, I believe there isn’t much time left to warn people about what’s coming.
Dear Christian, I’m exhorting you to lovingly warn people about God’s wrath. Inviting them to an event, program, or church is not enough; you must share the gospel and invite them to follow Jesus today. You might be the last opportunity they have to hear the good news before judgment comes upon the earth, or they go into eternity. Romans 10:15 Share your testimony and tell them about how Jesus transformed your life. Tell them, plead with them, and try to persuade them, because you know the fear, or as some translations say, terror of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:11 God will soon get the world’s attention, and there is not an earbud, smartphone, or distraction that will diminish people’s fear and foreboding of what’s coming. I hope you have a renewed sense of biblical urgency to compel people to come to saving faith, knowing it is His will that no one should perish. Every blessing in Jesus as you make Him known.
All for Him,
Howard
