Making a Chain

Much of the Western world is plagued by acts of violence. In cities large and small, surveillance cameras record assaults and murders. Differences in political philosophies have erupted into physical altercations and death threats. Deadly school shootings shatter lives and families. Images of these violent acts fill television news programs and social media posts. Violence has become so prevalent that we are largely desensitized to it.

Are there underlying reasons for the increase in violent crime? The Bible reveals both the underlying causes of and the solutions to these tragic events. Anciently, the prophet Ezekiel delivered a stern, sobering message to the people of his day, even though they did not want to hear it. He proclaimed, “Make a chain, for the land is filled with crimes of blood, and the city is full of violence” (Ezekiel 7:23). His analysis applies today. Crime and violence are linked with a series of actions and behaviors that ultimately lead to these intractable problems. The prophet Isaiah stated, “The way of peace they have not known, and there is no justice in their ways; they have made themselves crooked paths; whoever takes that way shall not know peace” (Isaiah 59:8).

The collapse of the traditional family structure in much of the Western world—resulting in a lack of stability and loving discipline in the home—is a part of the chain, often leading to criminal acts. Other connecting links are the use of illicit drugs, the influence of profane music, and gang culture, which often lead to violent crimes.

Entertainment, literature, and advertising have “normalized” behavior such as casual sex, gender confusion, and the promotion of homosexuality. This, of course, links to the epidemic of sexually transmitted diseases. Unplanned pregnancies resulting from this moral collapse link to eliminating unwanted children through abortion. Adding to this are those who choose abortion instead of parenthood because they view childbearing as an impediment to their career goals.

In the halls of government, corruption links to the lack of public confidence in political leaders. Misuse of the law has weakened confidence in the judicial system. Many people vent their frustration and anger in ways that add to the chain of violence.

The Missing Link

These seemingly intractable problems exist because most people are not linked to the standard of conduct known as the Ten Commandments, handed down by a loving Creator. These laws are listed in Exodus 20:1–17 and Deuteronomy 5:6–21. The Sixth Commandment states, “You shall not murder.” Other statutes and judgments explain how violent accidents and self-defense fatalities are to be handled.

The Seventh Commandment states, “You shall not commit adultery.” This decree prohibits all sexual relations outside of marriage. Other statutes and judgments that further define prohibited sexual activity are listed in Leviticus 18.

The Eighth Commandment states, “You shall not steal.” This simple, direct statement prohibits all forms of dishonesty involving personal property. Other scriptures go into detail about contracts, weights and measures, and so on. The Ninth Commandment, “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor,” addresses other types of deception. Finally, the Tenth Commandment states, “You shall not covet” and gives details about what we all must avoid desiring.

Imagine the positive change in society if these godly standards of conduct were linked to people through their ideas, words, and actions. The “bloody crimes” would cease! Moses recorded God’s words on this subject: “Oh, that they had such a heart in them that they would fear Me and always keep all My commandments, that it might be well with them and with their children forever” (Deuteronomy 5:29).

While you cannot change society, applying these principles in your personal life will result in the blessings that righteous conduct brings. We look forward to the return of Jesus Christ in power and glory to establish God’s reign on the earth. Then His standard of conduct will be obeyed by all as the problems of humanity are finally solved (Revelation 11:15).