Where Does Evil Live?

Nothing can eradicate evil from the hearts of individuals and individuals alike except for an authentic and potent encounter with Christ. Even in such encounters, there is uncertainty. It is important to recognize that we cannot legislate evil out of people, as evil is not subject to legal restraints. Evil does not seek permission or care. While reasonable individuals may agree to attempt to restrain evil, our efforts often only drive it underground.

Evil persists in individuals.

It remains alive.

It awaits.

Brothers and Sisters, we possess more effective tools to combat evil than mere laws (2 Corinthians 10:3-5). Therefore, let us direct our attention towards the superior and elevated path (1 Corinthians 13:7-8a). Engage in marches, protests, and social media activism, but remember to commence with a pure heart. Begin by addressing and eliminating the evil within yourself.

As a former pastor and chaplain with two police agencies, I can unequivocally assert that not only is there genuine, personal evil in the world, but there is also evil within the church, particularly in the pulpit. The question arises: why is there evil in the church? The answer lies in the fact that it resides within us and within you as well. The Bible does not transform anyone who does not align their life with the true, the good, and the beautiful.

The battle line between good and evil runs through the heart of every man. —Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn

Here is a modest proposal: let us repent and cleanse our lives before we advise others on how to live theirs.

Let us engage in the work of expanding the influence of Jesus after examining our lives in the intense, holy, and loving light of Christ. Then, we can speak—from our lives—to our culture with a grateful, healthy, and loving heart (Psalm 51) rather than a self-righteous, arrogant, and condemning heart.

Brothers and sisters, the world is in dire straits. Evil manifests in numerous forms, including human trafficking, wars, both public and private addictions, violence, stupidity, hunger (both physical and spiritual), and hatred. The church—all of the church—is the hope for a dying world, but only if we actively live our faith and adhere to our moral code.

Wash your feet [John 13:1-17] and begin the work of healing this world.