On June 1, 2020, London’s DAILY MAIL reported pallets of bricks that “showed up” in US cities when riots were expected. No one knows who left the bricks, but police believe they were put there to make the riots worse.* There are terrorist groups, rogue nations, and others who want to see America collapse. They will use any opportunity to create havoc and INCITE VIOLENCE. If Americans are burning cities and destroying businesses, history, and the economy, then America’s enemies are happy.
I witnessed riots in high school, and the violence draws you in like a magnet—it is hard to resist the pull of anger that washes over the crowd. But what if a riot does not happen naturally, but is the work of a puppet master with a secret agenda? Do we really want to be manipulated?
The crowds of Israel were also manipulated. When Jesus stood before Pilate, the crowds—some having shouted “Hosanna” for Jesus the week before—fell under the spell of their leaders:
“The chief priests and elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas and to execute Jesus” Matthew 27:20. “And the chief priests STIRRED UP the crowd so that Pilate would release Barabbas instead of Jesus” Mark 15:11. “When Pilate saw that a riot was starting,” he released Barabbas and turned Jesus over to be crucified, Matthew 27:24-25.
There is nothing wrong with passionate debate. Let’s welcome vigorous discussion and healthy conversation.
We should explore both sides, but we should NOT let ourselves be pushed by those who manipulate our emotions. Pilate KNEW the priests were jealous of Jesus. But the crowd did not—so the crowd was manipulated by men with secret motives.
Have you been pushed into believing in things? Has a friend or even a movie changed your views by manipulating your emotions? Do not let people manipulate you or use your emotions against you so that you will join their cause.
For politics, morals, and values, seek answers 1)in the Word, and 2)from mature, wise Christians. When you receive good answers from those who do not love Jesus, use numbers 1) and 2) to confirm them.
Read Matthew 27.
*There are many news articles now claiming the bricks were placed in various locations in anticipation of future construction. However, is it common practice to deposit valuable (and easily stolen) construction materials on-site before the site is secured by fences and construction has officially begun?
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Household Words: 