Psalm 37:1-13 in the New Living Translation speaks directly to this moment:

Don’t worry about the wicked or envy those who do wrong. For like grass, they soon fade away. Like spring flowers, they soon wither.

Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.

Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you. He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.

Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.

Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper, it only leads to harm. For the wicked will be destroyed, but those who trust in the Lord will possess the land.

Soon the wicked will disappear. Though you look for them, they will be gone. The lowly will possess the land and will live in peace and prosperity.

The wicked plot against the godly; they snarl at them in defiance. But the Lord just laughs, for he sees their day of judgment coming.

David reminds us: The schemes of the wicked may rage now, but they are temporary. God sees it all, and He has a plan. Regardless of the attacks on God’s people—whether Jews facing resurgent antisemitism or Christians enduring persecution—do not lose heart. Trust in Him, commit your ways to Him, and rest in His ultimate justice.

Here are some practical ways to live out this truth today:

1. Do not back down in speaking the truth of the Gospel. The enemy wants to silence believers, but we are called to proclaim Christ boldly. As the wicked “plot against the godly,” stand firm in sharing the hope we have.
2. Be prepared to answer questions about your faith—train yourself. Apologetics isn’t just for scholars; it’s for every believer (1 Peter 3:15). Equip yourself with reasons for your hope so you can respond wisely and graciously to skeptics or opponents.
3. Remember, Jesus said we are the light of the world—even in the political realm. We shine brightest when we engage culture with truth and love, including politics. Don’t withdraw; let your light expose darkness and point to Christ’s kingdom.
4. Don’t give in to online rage bait. Be aware of the issues—antisemitism, persecution, cultural shifts—but don’t let inflammatory posts stir fear or anger in you. Stop being angry; it only leads to harm. Scroll wisely and respond with peace.
5. Pray for all that is going on in the world, especially for those led astray. Intercede for victims of violence, but also for perpetrators and those deceived by false religions or dangerous belief systems. Pray for eyes to be opened to the truth of Christ.
6. Be at peace. The Lord laughs at the plots of the wicked because He knows their end. Wait patiently for Him to act. Delight in Him, and find your heart’s desires fulfilled in His presence.

Brothers and sisters, the grass withers, the flowers fade—but the Word of our God stands forever. God has a plan, and it includes victory for His people. Do not fret. Trust, do good, and watch Him work.

In every generation, the people of God have faced cultural distractions capable of pulling hearts away from Christ. Today, one of the most subtle and destructive distractions is the rise of conspiracy theories. They spread quickly, appeal to emotion, create an “us vs. them” mentality, and often claim secret knowledge that others—including the church—have supposedly overlooked.

But conspiracy thinking isn’t new. And the danger it poses to Christians—our witness, our unity, and our trust in God—is real.

Followers of Jesus must learn to recognize the landmines of conspiracy thinking, resist them, and keep their focus on Christ and His kingdom.

1. History Warns Us: Conspiracy Thinking Has Hurt God’s People Before

Some of the most destructive chapters of history began with conspiracy thinking—especially when societies blamed the Jewish people for the world’s problems.

The Black Death (1348–1350)

During the bubonic plague, rumors spread that Jews were poisoning wells. These claims were completely false, but mass paranoia took hold. Jewish communities were attacked, exiled, and murdered.

The historian Norman Cohn writes:

“Fear, suspicion, and hatred combined with wild rumor to produce a conviction that Jews were conspiring to poison Christendom.”
(The Pursuit of the Millennium)

The “Protocols of the Elders of Zion” (1903)

This forged document claimed Jews were secretly plotting to take over the world. It was debunked many times—but conspiracy thinking doesn’t rely on evidence. It fueled decades of antisemitism and helped pave the way for the Holocaust.

Historian Richard S. Levy notes:

“The myth endured because it gave simple answers to complex problems and created a villain people felt justified hating.”
(Antisemitism: A Historical Encyclopedia)

Nazi Germany (1933–1945)

Hitler built much of his propaganda on conspiracy theories: that Jews secretly controlled banks, media, and world governments. These ideas were not factual—they were deadly.

“The Holocaust was built on a conspiracy theory.”
— Deborah Lipstadt, historian of antisemitism

The church must remember these examples. When Christians entertain conspiracies today—especially those that demonize groups of people—we echo the same dangerous patterns of the past.

2. Why People Are Drawn to Conspiracies: Insights From Modern Psychology

Modern psychology gives us important insight into why conspiracy theories are so appealing—and why believers must be especially careful.

A. Conspiracies offer simple explanations for complex problems

Life is complicated. Evil is real. Politics is messy. Conspiracy theories offer what psychologists call “cognitive closure”—the comfort of clear, simple answers.

Dr. Karen Douglas, a leading researcher on conspiracy thinking, writes:

“Conspiracy theories provide people with a false sense of understanding when the world feels unpredictable.”

B. Conspiracies help people feel special or ‘in the know’

Researchers call this “epistemic ego boost.” It makes people feel like they belong to an enlightened minority who can see what others cannot.

This is spiritual quicksand for Christians.

C. Conspiracies create a sense of identity and belonging

Psychologists note that conspiracy groups form strong communities centered around shared suspicion.
But this is a counterfeit church, built on fear rather than faith.

D. Conspiracies reinforce fear-based thinking

Studies show that when people feel powerless or anxious, conspiracy beliefs go up sharply.
This is why they thrive during pandemics, elections, and cultural unrest.

But God has given His people a different foundation.

3. Why Conspiracy Thinking Is Spiritually Dangerous

A. Conspiracies distract Christians from the gospel

Paul warned Timothy:

“Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels.”
— 2 Timothy 2:23

When believers spend more time spreading theories than sharing Christ, the enemy has already won.

B. Conspiracies undermine trust in God’s sovereignty

At their core, conspiracies imply:
“Someone else is secretly controlling the world—and God is not.”

But Scripture teaches:

“The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and His kingdom rules over all.”
— Psalm 103:19

C. Conspiracies harm Christian unity

They create suspicion, factionalism, and an unhealthy spirit of fear.
But Scripture calls us:

“Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit.”
— Ephesians 4:3

D. Conspiracies damage our witness

If Christians spread untruths, exaggerations, or sensational claims, unbelievers begin to distrust the church’s message even when we speak truth.

“Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.”
— Colossians 4:6

A conspiracy-soaked church cannot be a gospel-centered church.

4. What Should Christians Focus On Instead?

A. Focus on truth, not speculation

Jesus said:

“You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
— John 8:32

Truth requires humility, careful thinking, and discernment.

B. Focus on the mission, not the rumors

The early church lived in a corrupt empire filled with real conspiracies—and they still focused on:

• preaching Christ
• making disciples
• caring for the poor
• living holy lives

Jesus didn’t call us to decode secret plots. He called us to go and make disciples (Matthew 28:19).

C. Focus on Scripture, not speculation

Conspiracy thinking offers fear.
The Word offers clarity, peace, and direction.

“Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure.”
— Philippians 4:8

D. Focus on Christ’s kingdom—not earthly paranoia

Conspiracy theories tell you the world is spinning out of control.

Jesus tells you:

“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
— John 16:33

The church must not be known for the conspiracies it spreads—but for the hope it offers.

5. Final Call: Stay Wise, Stay Humble, Stay Focused on Christ

History shows us where unchecked conspiracy thinking leads:
fear, confusion, division, hatred, and violence.

Psychology shows us why people fall for it:
the desire for certainty, belonging, and control.

Scripture shows us the better way:
truth, love, unity, humility, and trust in God.

As followers of Jesus, let us:

• Be wise (Proverbs 14:15)
• Be discerning (1 John 4:1)
• Be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9)
• Be focused on Christ and the gospel

And may our faith be shaped not by the shadows of suspicion,
but by the unshakable truth of God’s Word.

Disturbingly, this reaction is not isolated—similar hostility has been directed toward others who profess faith in Christ.

Where is this coming from? Is it merely the work of a few disturbed individuals, or is something deeper at play?

As believers, we understand that spiritual warfare is real—but it is shocking to see it manifest so openly. Times of great turmoil on earth often point to intense battles taking place in the heavens. And that reality should call us to prayer.

Persecution against Christians has undeniably increased around the world.

Global Persecution Is a Present Reality

While in America we have long enjoyed freedom of religion and freedom of speech, many believers around the world do not share that privilege.

Open Doors, an organization that tracks Christian persecution, reports that 4,476 Christians were murdered for their faith last year, 7,769 church properties were attacked, and at least 380 million Christians endured some form of persecution worldwide.

What is persecution? It can involve slander, the loss of certain freedoms, imprisonment, or even giving one’s life for the sake of the gospel. Jesus and the apostles did not shy away from warning us of this reality:

Matthew 5:10–11
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.”

John 15:18–20
“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.”

2 Timothy 3:12
“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”

1 Peter 4:13–14
“But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.”

These passages remind us that persecution is not a sign of God’s absence but rather evidence that we belong to Him. The world’s hostility toward Christians ultimately stems from its rejection of Christ Himself.

Concerning Trends in the West

While persecution has long been a reality elsewhere, we are now witnessing troubling signs within Western nations. Freedoms once taken for granted are beginning to erode, especially for those who hold to a biblical worldview.

In Great Britain, 12,000 people were arrested in the past year for sharing something on social media that authorities deemed “objectionable,” “offensive,” or “hate speech.”

Imagine sitting in your home when police knock on your door, question you, and potentially arrest you over a post you made online. That is no longer hypothetical—it’s happening.

Canada is also considering legislation that would silence free expression through the threat of fines and imprisonment. Similar trends can be observed in Europe, Australia, and even parts of the United States, where biblical convictions are increasingly portrayed as dangerous or hateful.

Spiritual Warnings for the Last Days

Paul’s warning to Timothy paints a sobering picture of the spiritual climate in the last days:

2 Timothy 3:1–5 (NLT)
“You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!”

Although this passage is broad, the intensity of these attitudes is clearly increasing. There is a growing cultural desire to “throw off” the influence of Christianity—often described in activist and academic circles as dismantling the “power hegemony” of “Christian supremacy.”

Terms like Christian nationalism or Christian identity movement are increasingly applied to ordinary Bible-believing Christians.

Whatever ideology Satan can use to stir up hatred toward the Church, he will exploit. This is not merely a political shift; it is a spiritual battle.

How Should Christians Respond?

So what should we do in light of these realities? Jesus has already given us the answer:

• Pray for our enemies and those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44).
• Love our neighbors as ourselves, even when they misunderstand or oppose us.
• Stay grounded in a Bible-believing church community where we are strengthened by God’s Word and fellowship.
• Anchor ourselves in Scripture daily. We will need its truth for the days ahead.

Standing Firm in Shifting Times

We are living in a time when hostility toward the Church is becoming more visible and more intense. But this is not the time to shrink back in fear.

It is the time to stand firm in truth, pray fervently, love boldly, and live faithfully.

The challenges ahead may test us—but they will also refine us. As persecution increases, may we be found faithful, holding fast to Christ and shining His light in an increasingly dark world.

Why then all the hate? Well unfortunately the western world has been overun with belief system that is set on dismantleing the Christian influence on our culture in regard to marriage, the family, leadership, justice and basically common sense. it was and still is an attempt to rewrite our history and completely transform western culture. Charlie took this belief system head on. Jesus warned us when we stand for him we will be persecuted. There are also some videos where clips where taken out of context to make it look like charlie was supporting something he was against or vice versa. Bottom line is that people are going to believe what they want to believe but you and I as Christians need to be wiser than that. So what should we do?

First of all be ready to share the gospel because there is now a hunger among many to know the truth. At Charlies Memorial the gospel was preached multiple times. there was an altar call and many gave their lives to the Lord. 200,000 people attended and this was seen by millions of people all over the world.at least 100 million online and millions more are going to be watching it this week. Be a person of prayer. Pray that the hearts of those you know would be open to receive Jesus. Maybe you have felt like giving up. but don’t. something is happening in the spiritual realm. God is moving and we need to be moving with him. And last of all guard your heart. Don’t be distracted or led astray by those with would twist the the truth. Keep your eyes on Jesus

“For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
— Isaiah 55:9 (ESV)

The Problem with Expectations

There isn’t a person alive who hasn’t wrestled with unmet expectations. Expectations are assumptions in our minds that may or may not line up with reality. Some say the safe route is to expect nothing so you’ll never be disappointed—but who wants to live that way?

The goal isn’t pessimism or optimism; it’s biblical realism: placing our hope in God while recognizing the world as it really is.

Even as believers, we form pictures in our heads of how God should work and when He should act. Those preconceived ideas can set us up for disappointment—and sometimes tempt us to quit right before God moves.

A Case Study: Naaman’s Expectation (2 Kings 5:1–14)

Naaman, a Syrian commander, sought healing from the prophet Elisha. He arrived with status, gifts, and a mental script for how the miracle should happen.

“Behold, I thought that he would surely come out to me… and wave his hand over the place and cure the leper.”
— 2 Kings 5:11 (ESV)

Instead, Elisha sent a messenger with simple instructions: “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times.” Offended, Naaman almost walked away. His servants pleaded: “Will you not do it?” He humbled himself, obeyed—and was healed (vv. 13–14).

Lesson 1: God Doesn’t Work by Our Scripts

Naaman’s expectation nearly cost him his miracle. God’s plan often makes sense after obedience, not before.

Lesson 2: Pride Blocks; Humility Unlocks

Pride says, “Do it my way.” Humility says, “Your word is enough.” When Naaman humbled himself, he received more than he imagined.

What We Can Expect from God

Let’s anchor our expectations to a biblical worldview:

• Power over sin (Rom. 6:6–14)
• Eternal life (John 3:16)
• Christ’s abiding presence—especially in trouble (Matt. 28:20; John 16:33)

These are guaranteed. What isn’t guaranteed are the extra assumptions we often tag onto the Christian life.

Three Common False Expectations

1. “Obedience always brings worldly blessing—right now.”
   That’s a subtle prosperity gospel. Jesus promised hardship and His presence: “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” — John 16:33
2. “Life should be fair, and people should always treat me kindly.”
   We long for justice, but life in a fallen world isn’t fair. Our response?
   • Do good without demanding return.
   • Serve because of who we are in Christ, not what we’ll get back (Gal. 6:9–10).
3. “Church people will never hurt me.”
   The church is an oasis of grace—but it’s still full of people who need grace. Don’t place others on pedestals that set you up for disappointment. Scripture calls us to a rhythm of mutual encouragement and presence: “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works… not neglecting to meet together… encouraging one another.” — Hebrews 10:24–25

Three Practices for Healthy Expectations

• Stir one another up to do good for God.
• Keep meeting together—show up, don’t isolate.
• Encourage each other—give the grace you hope to receive.

Conclusion

We all carry expectations. When they aren’t shaped by Scripture, they set us up for frustration. But when we align our hopes with God’s promises and our actions with His Word, the weight lifts.

“Take my yoke upon you… For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” — Matthew 11:29–30

Reflection Questions

1. Where have my expectations about God been more cultural than biblical?
2. What “Naaman script” am I insisting on that keeps me from simple obedience?
3. Who can I encourage this week so our church family grows in grace?

A Simple Prayer

Lord, align my expectations with Your Word.
Replace my pride with humility, my scripts with obedience,
and my disappointment with Your peace. Amen.