Reflections on Violence in Egypt and a Biblical Lesson
Do you recall the account from John 8 where teachers of the law and Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery before Jesus? Everyone was eager to stone her, believing that was what she deserved according to the law. Instead of condemnation, Jesus extended grace and wisdom. It’s quite striking, really.
“They were trying to trap him, testing him for something he might say against them. Jesus bent down and began writing on the ground with his finger. They kept asking him, so he finally stood and said, ‘Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.’ Then he bent down again and wrote on the ground.” John 8:7-8
One by one, her accusers left, realizing they too were sinners. Jesus then asked her, “Where are your accusers? Did no one condemn you?” The woman responded, “Not one.” Jesus replied, “Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more.”
This story lingered in my mind as I came across reports of anti-Christian violence in Egypt. Why? Well, violence erupted in a small village in Minya following rumors about a relationship between a Christian man and a Muslim woman. As noted by Christian Today, the situation escalated, fueled by hate speech circulating on social media.
The violence was intense. Riots broke out, with groups of Muslims attacking Christians’ homes and businesses, throwing stones, even setting properties ablaze. As police intervened, arrests were made, and, according to Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW), local authorities organized a necessary reconciliation meeting between the groups involved.
Despite this effort, there are worries that such violent responses are becoming a norm. “Egypt has started to suppress unregistered religious groups, despite the fact that religious freedom is supposedly guaranteed by the constitution,” reported Christian Today. This pattern generally stems from offended Muslim groups rather than from governmental actions, highlighting enduring social and political tensions between Christians and Muslims. It seems these attacks have a long history, with reports indicating they have grown increasingly severe over the years.
In response to the recent violence, Scott Bower, CEO of CSW, commented, “Sectarian attacks are not just assaults on innocent individuals; they also undermine the fundamental rights and human dignity of everyone.” He urged local law enforcement to act promptly. This incident underscores the ongoing threat to religious freedom and the reality of persecution.
Let’s take a moment to pray for our Christian brothers and sisters living in fear. May they find strength amid adversity, unity in discord, and love where there’s hostility. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed in a world riddled with violence, but remember, light persists even in the darkest of times, and darkness cannot extinguish it (John 1:5).
