What is the difference between the Wahhabi and the PCA? You may have heard that Saudi Arabia executed 37 in one day recently. It was an above average day, but not an unusual day. They were all Muslims, but the wrong kinds of Muslim. I think all were beheaded, but they took the body of one and crucified it for several hours to set an example. But you see they are rich and have powerful friends in Israel and the US. The draw of wealth and power will cause most to compromise to share in it. I know this and to an extent have lived it. But then by the grace of the Lord for some He grants repentance. While it remains a continual struggle, the evidence is there.

Consider those who will for a much smaller amount of wealth and power still do so many things that demonstrate a love for the things of this world rather than a trust and joy in the Lord. That power and prestige is provided by the institution, which includes government, corporate, and the institutional church. Consider Mat 23:5-7. The Pharisees of that time are the same as the institutional leaders of today. When their position and their ego is challenged they turned to the state to protect them. I know this firsthand.

In a very real way the Saudis are kinder then the US or the PCA as beheading is quick. Isolation is slow and painful, and the practice of the Saudis, the US, and the PCA. I have heard many interviews of those who have gone through physical isolation for extended periods in the US, England, Bahrain, Tunisia, Indonesia and other places. It is more than unkind and it has a lasting effect, but many have survived and part of their hope was knowing they had others interested in their wellbeing. Emotional isolation, or shunning, is very much like the physical. But not having any hope that there is someone who wants you back also has a real impact.

But there is the Lord’s grace.

I love you!