Matthew 24:6–7
“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars… For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.”
In the original Greek, the word translated as “nation” is ethnos (ἔθνος), meaning an ethnic group, tribe, or people bound together by a shared identity. Jesus warned that ethnic group would rise against ethnic group.
As I look around the world today, I see growing ethnic tensions, racial division, and identity-based conflicts tearing at the fabric of societies. These divisions are no longer confined to distant places—they are increasingly unfolding within nations themselves. Much of the media seems to magnify these conflicts, often amplifying fear, outrage, and hostility because division attracts attention.
To be clear, I am not saying the crimes, injustices, or suffering we see are fake, nor am I suggesting we should ignore the pain of victims. Quite the opposite. We should grieve with those who grieve and seek justice where evil has been done. What strikes me, however, is that a prophecy spoken nearly 2,000 years ago appears to be unfolding before our eyes, yet few people are talking about it.
Even films such as Citizen Vigilante reflect the growing frustration, anger, and vigilante spirit emerging in society. I enjoyed the film, and I do not believe in censoring it. Yet it should not be mistaken for a model of Christian living. Rather, it serves as a reminder of the darkness that can arise when fear, division, and vengeance begin to shape a culture.
As believers, our calling is different. Scripture reminds us:
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12)
The battle is ultimately not against other ethnic groups, political opponents, or our neighbors. It is spiritual.
So put on the full armor of God. Stand firm in the truth. Love your neighbor, even when the world encourages hatred. Speak truth without fear, but also without malice. Refuse to be consumed by the divisions that are spreading across society.
And above all, keep your eyes fixed on Jesus Christ—the only true source of peace in a world increasingly fractured along ethnic, political, and cultural lines.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9)