Reflecting on a Troubling Trend in Society and the Church
Introduction: Lawlessness in Our World
If you’ve ever turned on the news or scrolled through social media lately, you might have noticed a growing sense that something isn’t quite right. Stories about crime, dishonesty, and injustice seem more common than ever. What’s even more surprising is that this sense of lawlessness isn’t just “out there” in the world—it’s creeping into places we’d expect to be safe and upright, like our churches and faith communities. It’s a troubling trend that leaves many people, myself included, wondering: Why is lawlessness spreading, and what can we do about it?
Lawlessness in Unexpected Places
Traditionally, many of us have looked to places like the church as examples of goodness, morality, and fairness. But today, stories of corruption, abuse, and scandal within religious institutions have become all too familiar. It’s not just about broken laws—it’s about broken trust. When places meant to guide and protect us are affected by lawlessness, it shakes our confidence in the very idea of justice.
Biblical Reference: Habakkuk 1:4 and Its Context
This isn’t a new problem. The Bible itself talks about times when lawlessness seemed to take over. One powerful example is found in the Old Testament book of Habakkuk. In chapter 1, verse 4, the prophet laments: “Therefore the law is paralyzed, and justice never prevails. The wicked hem in the righteous, so that justice is perverted.”
To put it simply, Habakkuk is looking at his society and seeing that those who do wrong outnumber those who do right. Because of this, the legal system doesn’t work as it should. Good people are surrounded and overwhelmed by those who ignore the rules, and justice gets twisted and lost. Habakkuk’s words paint a vivid picture of frustration and despair—a world where wrong seems to win out over right.
Habakkuk’s Lament: Wrestling with Evil and Injustice
Habakkuk’s story begins with him questioning God about why evil is allowed to continue unchecked. He’s troubled by the fact that the wicked seem to prosper while the righteous suffer. His questions are raw and honest, reflecting feelings many of us share today when we see unfairness in our communities. Habakkuk isn’t afraid to ask the hard questions: Why does injustice go unpunished? Why do the good suffer while the bad get ahead?
Corrupt Justice and Paralyzed Law
The phrase “the law is paralyzed” means that the rules and systems designed to keep order no longer function. When lawlessness spreads, those with power or influence bend the rules for their own benefit. The courts become ineffective, and people lose faith in the idea that right will triumph over wrong. This leads to a cycle where corruption grows, and everyday people feel helpless to change things.
Meaning for Today: Ancient Words, Modern Problems
Habakkuk’s concerns aren’t just ancient history—they feel strikingly relevant today. As lawlessness increases in society, and even in places meant to be moral guides, we face similar challenges. We see the powerful escaping accountability, ordinary folks suffering, and justice delayed or denied. The prophet’s words remind us that these struggles are part of the human experience, but they also encourage us to reflect on our own roles.
Call to Action: Upholding Justice in Our Lives
What can we do when faced with a world that seems increasingly lawless? Habakkuk’s story reminds us not to lose hope or turn a blind eye. Each of us can work to uphold justice and right living, whether in our families, communities, or workplaces. Speaking out against wrongdoing, supporting those who are hurting, and striving to do what’s right—even when it’s difficult—make a real difference. We may not be able to fix everything, but we can choose to stand on the side of justice and integrity.
Conclusion: Hope and Comfort from a Biblical Perspective
Habakkuk’s story doesn’t end in despair. While he struggles with the prevalence of lawlessness, he ultimately finds comfort and hope in his faith. He learns to trust that, even when humans fail, a higher justice will prevail. For those who feel overwhelmed by the corruption and chaos in society, this message offers reassurance: change is possible, and goodness still matters. By choosing to live rightly, we can play a part in restoring trust and justice, both in our communities and within ourselves.
Minister A Francine Green
October 2025
afrancinegreen.com 