The basic problem in the word today is the problem of authority. The chaos in the world is due to the fact that people in every realm of life have lost all respect for authority, whether it be between nations or between parts of nations, whether it be in industry, whether it be in the home, whether it be in the schools, or anywhere else. The loss of authority! And in my view it all starts in the home and in the married relationship. That is why I venture to query whether a statesman whose own marriage has broken down really has a right to speak about the world’s problems. If he fails in the sphere where he is most competent, what right has he to speak in others? He ought to retire out of public life. The real breakdown starts in the home, and in the married relationship. I am asserting that the appalling increase in divorce which has taken place since the second world war . . . is due to one thing only, namely, that men and women do not understand this Scriptural teaching about marriage and about husbands and wives.
D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Life in the Spirit in Marriage, Home & Work: An Exposition of Ephesians 5:18-6:9, pg. 111-112
I would agree, adding that one reason there is no respect for authority is because the authority is often abusive and corrupt. Rank hypocrisy of those in authority is another cause. This applies to the culture, the church, and the home, which is, as Lloyd-Jones stated, the root.
ReplyDeleteRespect is earned by quality of character, not granted unconditionally.
Romans 13:1-7 and 1 Tim 2:1-4 can still be obeyed in a wicked culture, without condoning evil or compromising truth.
Proverbs 29:2
-Carolyn
Carolyn, agree with you yet again. Well said.
ReplyDeleteGlenn, thank you again for the Lloyd-Jones books. Such a wonderful treasure.
Alec, you are so very welcome!
ReplyDelete