BERLIN WALL

BERLIN WALL (part 2)

Reflecting on these events, two lessons stand out to me.

First, the unconquerable human desire for freedom. People will be oppressed and bound by corrupt government, dictatorial leaders or false, inhibiting a religious doctrine or system of religious teachings depicted as the religious truth.

It may take generations, but the wellspring of human dignity will rise and overthrow power that prohibits the God - given right of choice. Humans may not always choose better systems of governance, but God has implemented the human mind with the most precious gift of all - the freedom of choice.

The other lesson is that unexpected events can occur very quickly. No one predicted the event that led to the sudden collapse of the Berlin 'Wall'.

As a theologian, I cannot help but to think of a certain biblical passage which throws light into these lessons. In 1 Thessalonians 5:1-8, Paul wrote these words of warning: "Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. while people are saying, 'Peace and safety', destruction will come on them suddenly, as labour pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.

But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled. For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate."

Paul is referring to the day of Christ's return and any efforts to determine that date is totally foolish. That day is a future time when God will intervene directly and dramatically in world affairs.

History shows that large events can overwhelm nations quite suddenly, leading to collapse and a complete rearrangement of world order. The prophetic “day of the Lord” is such an event. This event is God’s direct intervention in world affairs, which will lead to Christ’s return and the kingdom of God replacing the governments of this world as it is mentioned in Revelation 11:15. Paul is urging us not to live in darkness - ignorance of our times and the condition of the world. We are to be awake and alert “children of the day” who are aware of the times we live in and just how quickly world conditions can change. It is a fact that we are living through a period of great change in world conditions. We should, then, prepare ourselves for what lies ahead by seeking God’s help in discerning today's events.

Consulting material:

Wikipedia

Fall of the Berlin Wall - History on the Net

Facts about the Berlin Wall - Historyplex

NIV - Life Application Study Bible