How Rebellion Against God Leads to Chaos—and What Believers Can Do
Lawlessness is a word that pops up often in the Bible, especially in the teachings of Jesus and the letters of the apostles. But what does it really mean? And why is it so important for Christians today? In this blog post, we’ll break down the concept of lawlessness in simple terms, explore what the Bible says about it, and discuss how believers can respond with hope and perseverance.
What is Lawlessness?
Definition and Greek Roots
At its core, lawlessness means living without regard for law or authority. In the Bible, the word often comes from the Greek term anomia (pronounced ah-NO-mee-uh), which literally means “without law.” However, it’s not just about breaking rules; it’s deeper than that. Lawlessness is a rejection of God’s law and will—a refusal to acknowledge His authority over our lives. It’s choosing our own way over God’s way, and the Bible describes this as the root of sin and rebellion.
Biblical Context and Examples
Jesus’ Warnings
Jesus spoke openly about lawlessness, especially in His famous Olivet Discourse (a teaching on the Mount of Olives about the end times). In Matthew 24:12, He warns, “Because lawlessness will increase, the love of many will grow cold.” Here, Jesus isn’t just talking about people breaking rules—He’s describing a time when people will turn away from God’s ways so much that love itself begins to disappear from society.
Paul’s “Man of Lawlessness”
The apostle Paul also talks about lawlessness in his letters. In 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8, Paul describes a mysterious figure called “the man of lawlessness.” This person stands for open rebellion against God and His truth, leading many away from faith. Paul uses this image to warn believers about the dangers of turning away from God’s guidance and the chaos that follows.
John’s Definition
The apostle John makes it even more clear in his letters: “Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness” (1 John 3:4). For John, lawlessness isn’t just about actions but about a heart set against God’s commands. It’s a willful choice to live outside of God’s good and loving boundaries.
Consequences of Lawlessness
The Bible warns that lawlessness leads to spiritual decay and chaos. When people ignore God’s laws, the result is a breakdown of moral order—a kind of spiritual and social disorder. Jesus warns that unchecked lawlessness causes love to fade and communities to fall apart. Paul and John both teach that those who continue in lawlessness without repentance risk being excluded from the kingdom of God. It’s a serious matter because it affects not just individuals but whole societies.
Matthew 24:12 and the Olivet Discourse
Matthew 24:12 sits at the heart of Jesus’ end-times teaching. He explains that as lawlessness increases, love will decrease—a warning for us to remain watchful and faithful. The Olivet Discourse is a wake-up call for believers: There will be times when the world seems to spin out of control and morality declines, but Jesus encourages His followers not to lose heart or let their love grow cold. Instead, He calls us to keep loving and serving others, even when it’s tough.
What It Means for Believers
Vigilance and Perseverance
So, what should believers do in a world where lawlessness seems to be on the rise? First, the Bible urges us to stay vigilant—to keep watch over our hearts and not get swept up by the chaos around us. Perseverance is key. Jesus says that “the one who endures to the end will be saved” (Matthew 24:13). Our call is to hold tight to our faith, even when times are hard.
Cultivating Love
One of the most important responses to lawlessness is to keep love alive—in our families, churches, and communities. When the world grows cold, Christians are called to warm it up with acts of kindness, forgiveness, and compassion. This is how we resist the pull of lawlessness and show the world what God’s love looks like in action.
The Path Forward: Righteousness and Hope
Even as the Bible warns about the dangers of lawlessness, it also offers hope. Jesus promises that lawlessness will not have the final word. There is a day coming when God will set things right and bring an end to chaos and rebellion. Until then, believers are called to walk in righteousness—not by our own strength, but by the power of the Holy Spirit. We’re invited to trust God, follow His commands, and look forward to the day when His kingdom fully comes.
Conclusion: Remain Steadfast and Loving
Lawlessness is more than just breaking rules—it’s a spiritual condition that leads to chaos and separation from God. But the good news is that Jesus has shown us a better way. As believers, we’re called to be vigilant, to persevere, and above all, to keep love at the center of our lives. No matter how dark the world may seem, God is faithful, and He empowers us to stand firm and be lights in the darkness. Let’s encourage one another to remain steadfast and loving until the very end.
Minister A Francine Green
October 2025
afrancinegreen.com 