In our fragmented times, we ask: How much longer is left for our planet? Are we near the zero hour? How will it all end—the moral collapse of the West, the explosion of terrorism, the fragmentation of the Middle East, the tottering economy, the faltering global order?
These questions lead to deeper ones: Why is all this happening? Can we find purpose in it? Is it possible to be comforted through all this? Is there hope?
I want to stand up and say: Our answers are even better than our questions. We have answers in the Bible for all the problems of life, and if we summarize the answers in one word, it would be: JESUS!
It’s a simple statement to make—“Jesus is the answer”—but it’s not simplistic. It is the broadest truth, the wisest philosophy, the greatest theology, and the deepest mystery we can discover. Jesus has the answers because He is the answer—Christ, the wisdom of God and the power of God. Christ in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Christ in you, the hope of glory (1 Corinthians 1:24; Colossians 2:3; 1:27).
Jesus Is the Answer to the World’s Problems
Jesus is the answer to the world’s problems. What would happen if our greatest world leaders turned in true repentance and faith to Jesus Christ? What if they came to the same conclusion about the Lord as King Nebuchadnezzar of old: “For His dominion is an everlasting dominion, and His kingdom is from generation to generation”? (Daniel 4:34) Do you think our world would be different if our presidents, prime ministers, premiers, and parliaments confessed Christ as Lord?
What if the world’s citizens turned to Christ? I’ll give you an example of how that would turn out. On August 19, 1991, Communist hardliners in Moscow seized control of the Soviet government while Mikhail Gorbachev was in Crimea. Boris Yeltsin was trapped in the parliament building as thousands of brave citizens gathered outside, forming a human barricade. Tanks and troops ringed the building, and the world held its breath.
When the storming of parliament seemed imminent, Christians showed up with a truck loaded with Bibles. Believers went from soldier to soldier and from tank to tank, handing out the Scripture and quoting Exodus 20:13, the commandment about not killing others.
Almost all the soldiers accepted the proffered books. Some tucked them in their pockets while others began reading at once. Many had always wanted a Bible but had never seen one. And with each Bible came the question, “You’re not really going to kill us, are you? This book says, ‘Thou shalt not kill.’” The coup collapsed.[1]
Jesus Is the Answer to Others’ Problems
The same Jesus who is the answer to the world’s problems is also the answer for those crossing your path every day. When our society hits hard times, it’s an opportune time to share Jesus with others. Whenever people face questions without answers, they need Him who is the answer to all their questions.
As we go about our lives telling others that Jesus is the answer, we never know who is listening. God surrounds us with divine appointments, and He often uses us in ways we haven’t expected. Stand up for Jesus. Speak up for Him. Let the Holy Spirit guide you to those you can counsel, comfort, and converse with.
There’s a reason we’re in the world right now. We can make a difference by sharing the love of Jesus with the world. Ask Him to help you answer the cries and crises of those around you with the message of Jesus.
Jesus Is the Answer to Your Problems
Most of all, remember Jesus is the answer to your own problems. Whenever we face difficulties, it’s tempting to run to others for advice. While we need the wise counsel of those around us, only Jesus can satisfy our spirit and guide our steps. Only He can dwell within us, strengthening us with all power out of the riches of His glory in our inner beings (Ephesians 3:16). We must go to Jesus first, last, and always.
When you have questions, believe Jesus. He’s the answer you need to the fears you have and the future you seek—Christ in you, the hope of glory. Those who trust in Him are safe in the grasp of His grace.
1 Barbara Von Der Heydt, Candles Behind the Wall: Heroes of the Peaceful Revolution that Shattered Communism (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1993), 210-219.
David Jeremiah is the senior pastor of Shadow Mountain Community Church and the founder and host of Turning Point for God. For more information about Dr. Jeremiah or Turning Point, visit www.DavidJeremiah.org.
