Reality of Our Times

by Charles R. Swindoll

Need a picture of just how hopeless and empty society really is? Just glance over 2 Timothy 3. Within the first thirteen verses, I find three undeniable descriptions of our world: difficult, depraved, and deceived.

The first verse refers to our times as "difficult." One version renders the word perilous (KJV). Another translates it terrible (NIV). The Greek root word means "grievous, harsh, fierce, savage." It is used only one other time in the New Testament. In Matthew 8:28, it appears when the writer describes two men with demons as being "extremely violent." What an apt description of our world! Savage, harsh, violent. If you question that, if you need proof that that is no exaggeration, check this morning's news on the Web or listen to the evening news. Both will convince you our "village" is in desperate straits.