In a current so-called "classic novel" the writer views with ominous forebodings the year 1984.
Another contemporary in a more recently published book attempts to disarm the other's "disturbing symbolism of 1984," contending that ever improving technology in a global free market will bring peace, prosperity— and even immortality itself— to all. While fully appreciating the prevailing dismal views of mankind, the writer tells his readers not to worry, because (he says) the good sense of the average man is proof against the rantings of the pessimists. People will prove masters of their fate, he is sure, and the creative energy thus released will not only solve the problems of pollution and famine, but gratify desires yet undreamed of.
Even if this light-hearted theory were anything more than irresponsible optimism, the fatal flaw in it would be that it leaves out God. It is well to remember that God may exercise His prerogatives and execute His plans, quite independently of man's will or wishes.
The one who says in his heart "there is no God," the Bible designates a "fool". To one who boasted himself of tomorrow, God said, "Thou fool, this night shall thy soul be required of thee." Luke 12:2020But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? (Luke 12:20).
In ancient Egypt, on festive occasions, a corpse was introduced and set at the banquet table to remind the guests of their mortality, and in such a presence the festivities proceeded. In this regard the idolatrous Egyptians were wiser than many in so-called Christendom.
But even if one should be spared to live through 1984, what if the Lord should intervene? What if Christ should come for His own in 1976? What charm would the rosiest 1984 hold for the one who was consciously left behind— shut out of heaven forever?
And what if the Day of the Lord, the judgment day, (which will surely follow the coming of Christ for His Church) should break upon this world before 1984 arrives?
Satan's object is to occupy the minds of men either with the anxious cares of this life now, or with empty dreams of the future. God proclaims that for the ungodly judgment lies ahead; and that TODAY IS THE DAY OF SALVATION.
"I do therefore earnestly exhort you, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by the worth of your precious soul that you delay not a day nor an hour longer. Leave not the great, the momentous question of your personal salvation, your eternal destiny to an uncertain tomorrow. Have it settled TODAY. "Now is the day of salvation."
Believe in Him who died for thee,
And sure as He has died,
Thy debt is paid, thy soul is free,
And thou are justified.