Frank Viola | Beyond Evangelical

Official Blog of Author & Speaker Frank Viola. Digging below the surface and moving beyond the shallows in today's Christianity.

4 Sobering Observations About ISIS

The recent spate of terrorism employed by ISIS has scared the liver out of people around the world, it’s barbarism even chilling the blood.

Numerous Christians have weighed in on the problem. And emotions run hot on all sides, sometimes to over-boiling. Social media sites are ablaze with opinions, laments, and outrage.

Some are clamoring, “Off with their heads! Spare none of them!”

In the eyes of these believers, the atrocities spawned by ISIS relegates them to sub-human status, and thus, there’s no concern for their individual redemption. This segment of the Christian populace has no problem unsheathing their swords when it comes to those who exist to murder, maim, and menace other mortals.

Other Christians are focusing their sights on the evils of war, alleging that any defense of human life which involves force is akin to taking the mark of the beast. “Killing is always wrong,” so they argue.

I’m monumentally disinterested in getting caught up in a “if I were in charge, this is what I’d do” fruitless debate.

Instead, here are 4 observations regarding ISIS that aren’t getting much airplay today. They are …

1) The ISIS people are far better at evangelism (to their horrific cause) than many who follow this world’s true Lord.

To date, there are over 31,000 armed members of ISIS, and that number has doubled since last year. Suicide missions aren’t uncommon for them.

How many Christians do you know who are discipling people to eat, sleep, and breathe Jesus Christ, even to the point of giving their mortal lives for Him?

Methinks we need to take a sober look at this. Something is wrong when a false religion can generate more zeal and devotion to its faith than most Christians have for their Lord. (I’m not speaking about numbers, but the quality and level of allegiance.)

I’m depressed to say that ISIS is using brilliant internet strategies to recruit people to their dark side while the Christian population, by and large, is busy having political and doctrinal beat downs with one another on their Facebook threads.

(And for those of you who are pedantic, I’m defining “evangelism” loosely here to refer to the means by which a person is converted to anything.)

2) Behind the savage physical violence that the members of ISIS carry out is a spiritual realm that’s real and active.

When we’re watching people beheaded and blown apart in public venues, we often forget the words of Paul.

“For our fight is not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, and against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” 

~ Ephesians 6:12

Point. No matter how superb the military strategy or how savvy the Intelligence, every country who seeks to stop ISIS is up against unseen forces in other realms which are operating in and through the ISIS members.

“And you were dead in your trespasses and sins,  in which you formerly walked according to the age of this world and according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience.” 

~ Ephesians 2:1-2

To wit, may the body of Christ be strategic and intentional in aligning itself in serious prayer and intercession to push back the darkness, military responses notwithstanding.

3) Despite the despicable behavior of the ISIS group, they are souls for whom Jesus died. 

If someone was persuaded to follow the dark side, is it not possible that they can be persuaded to follow the true Light of the World?

To stay with the Star Wars analogy (yes, I’m anticipating the upcoming film … sorry), even Darth Vader repented at the end of his life and made amends for his wickedness.

“There is no pit so deep, that God’s love is not deeper still.”

~ Corrie ten Boom

Speaking as a US citizen, I wish those large Christian organizations in the USA that have money, power, and technology, would pray, strategize, and launch their own evangelization efforts targeted at those who have been recruited into this savage wickedness.

4) The existence of ISIS and their threats should affect our relationship with the Lord.

God’s object is to make a spiritual people who know their Lord deeply and express His love, power, and majesty together. A people who are having Christ formed in them.

It’s a fact that tragedies and impending troubles have a knack for waking us up. On this score, let me close with a brief word from T. Austin-Sparks:

“May none of us find ourselves in this hour of darkness like the foolish virgins, with insufficient spirituality, so that the door of His fullness is closed to us. Spiritually cannot be obtained in an hour of emergency, it is only proved then. Let us see to it that we are not resting on things, be they most devout; but rather learning to know the Lord.”

It’s time to stop playing religious games and become serious about our life in Christ and our growth into the deeper things that relate to Him.

Only this will get us through in the days ahead. A shallow, superficial, status-quo-maintaining Christianity simply cannot.

So it seems to me.

Answering a Question You’ve Asked 

Many of you wanted to know when The Deeper Christian Life Network opens again for registration. It only opens 3x a year. And it will open again in early 2016. Take a look, and if it is resonates, join the Wait List so you don’t miss the opportunity. The network is the most important project I’ve been involved with over the last decade, and many who are part of it have felt the same.

If you’re looking to connect with radical Jesus-followers who eat, breath, and sleep the Lord Jesus Christ, you’ll find them on the network.

If you missed it: 3 Ingredients for Having an Amazing 2016

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  2. Thank you for a balanced view of how we should respond to this relevant issue! We spend more time talking about it than we do praying and being more proactive as believers. The witness of modern Christianity has weakened while the witness of those affiliated with ISIS has risen. They are souls for whom Jesus died, and we should care about these souls.

  3. Am reading Leviticus-trying to really read it ,not just get through-why should there be a sin offering after child birth (also after cure from skin disease)! Why not an offering of thanks-the only sin would have been sexual intercourse-which God in no way has labeled Sin-if so a bull would have to be offered really often in Song of Solomon-skin offering somehow is twisted in Christian thought as every sin is sexual-a puzzle to me

  4. Hi Frank and all those that view and read this.

    Frank, I want to encourage you to keep on the path Christ set out for you.

    I have been “following” you for a few years now. I am always impressed by your views. You live out “by this will they know you, how you Love one another.”

    Although I agree with your statements, I am left with a frustration inside. What can I do? I know most of the generalities, but what practically?

    As I write this, I got the thought that the question should maybe be, what am I called to today?

    I cannot, and am not expected to solve the world’s problems., that is God’s job. But I must be aware of what I must do today, where I am to further God’s Kingdom, where I am. I am not where ISIS is, I am where I am. I must listen to God’s bidding. If I am to go to ISIS, I must go. But if I am called to stay where I am and bless those around me, that is way better, than being distracted by the drama caused by Satan’s agenda and not doing something here because I think I should be there and also not doing something there because I’m here.

    In closing, I don’t know what the above sounds like, but it is meant to be encouragement. I believe it is the small things that count.

    LOVE COVERS A MULTITUDE OF SIN.

    A big hug and encouragement to all followers of Christ. I don’t know you but I know your heart, so I love and encourage you in that.

    • The call to actions are (1) share this post with others if you agree with the points (2) if you’re a part of a large Christian organization, as mentioned in one of the points, share it with them (3) intercede (4) if you are part of an intercessors group, pray strategically as outlined (5) do business with God as the last point stresses.

      I’ve also posted the link at the bottom about how to prepare for 2016. Check that out.

      So no need to be frustrated. Anyone can do at least one or two of the above. The Lord may lead some to do even more.

      My burden was just to article what’s not being said about this issue. By the response I’ve gotten via Email and Facebook, it’s struck a chord with thousands, so I’m glad I wrote it.

  5. Frank, I am rather confused with this comment of yours “military responses notwithstanding” please show me where Christ advocated a military response to any earthly conflict. As a matter of fact He advocated if someone took your cloak give them your coat too. Is not this whole situation a response to our military actions in their own back yards?

    • That comment simply means that my point remains despite what military forces in various countries do or not do. I’ve made no comment about that particular subject beyond that. It’s a mistake to read one’s agenda into this piece.

      The piece speaks to 4 specific issues that I’m not hearing anyone talk about on this subject. And it doesn’t go beyond those issues.

      Since this post was published, it’s been shared thousands of times. So I’m glad there’s finally a discussion happening on these four neglected points.

      p.s. To some of the other commentors, this isn’t a book about ISIS. It’s a narrowly focused blog post that has but one objective. To encourage thought on four specific observations. I’m thankful that this mission is being accomplished.

      • Thank you Frank for clearing up my misunderstanding of your comment. There was no agenda in my question, possibly a little projection of my frustration of people wanting to spend more human life and blood in this area.

  6. Once again you’ve nailed it. I said after San Bernadino that if we had HALF the Christians who were half as dedicated, we would all be doing well.

    We wouldn’t care who was running for president. We wouldn’t care if we had medical insurance, because we’d always be covered by our brothers and sisters. Thanks for everything you do for the body of Christ. I’m waiting to sign up for your new program.

  7. Thanks Frank, I agree on your thoughts about ISIS, but I don’t think the word “devotion” is the right word to be used for the methods and tactics of this politically/religiously fanatic group of people who use power and fear to force themselves and their believes on others without any choice. “Devotion” for me is a word with more positive spiritual meaning. May be a better word for ISIS will be “obsessive” because they are definitely satanic orchestrated. Definitely no model to follow, but rather to oppose.

    • Chris, thanks for getting it. The definition of the word “devotion” in the English language means loyalty, commitment, allegiance or enthusiasm for a person, activity, or cause.

      It’s not a Christian term nor does it convey a Christian idea. My point is that the allegiance of those in ISIS to their cause is much stronger and serious than is the allegiance that many Christians have for their Lord. I’m sorry that point didn’t come through clearly.

  8. Hi Frank,
    This one is way over from the other side of the world, and a country where time actually begins/began (New Zealand).

    Over here, perhaps like in your country, ISIS is very much a hot discussion among Christians. In the group I am a part of, we very much do pray for ISIS, in that God would cause some real miracles in their live, as in them getting saved and coming to know Christ.

    With that said, really appreciate your emails, posts, and blogs as they are a real blessing and encouragement to me.

    Blessings,
    Stephen (Php 1:21).

  9. Thanks Frank, as usual you have ‘nailed’ it, which is why I really like reading your observations. I’ve recently challenged a group of us with the possibility of facing death in the face and asked what our response would be when faced with evil. As you say the battle is not against flesh and blood but so many don’t have an understanding of that reality. Keep up the good work.

  10. I agree with you whole heartedly Frank, but would like to add another possibility. Is it possible that ISIS is being used to judge and move to repentance, all Nations, and a Church that has largely turned away from God and refuses to repent despite repeated warnings?

    How often has God used “barbarians” to judge a Church that would not seek His face, or even turn away from evil? Will we repent or will we continue to put our trust in Man and the Worlds system instead of our Father and the life He longs to give us?

  11. I have just recently “found” you and am so greatly pleased by and blessed with this article. You are right on about ISIS and how our Lord died for them also and we need to pray for them. Everything else was also well presented. I also enjoy and benefit from all of your personal responses to comments. It’s nice to see some so “radical” that is not spewing anger and hate like some are, just solid facts. Keep up the good wqrk and thank you. God’s blessings on you and your work.

    • Welcome to the Deeper Journey, Patricia. There are many of us who are uncomfortable with the way that both the progressive left and the conservative right approaches subjects, but who explore issues from a different perspective altogether.

  12. Thanks Frank for another motivating.observation. I think of 2 Timothy 2:4, No soldier on active duty entangles himself in everyday activities, so as to please the one who enlisted him to service.

  13. Totally agree. I also wish more resources were going to Muslim evangelism, but the Lord is doing fantastic things among them still. One of the reasons, I believe, that Boko Haram is being so violent is due to the anger about the revival going on in Africa.

  14. I’ve read four of your books, and I’m currently engaged in a study of “Living By the Indwelling Life of Christ”. One of the blessings that I appreciate about your writings and your ministries is that you demonstrate that you are continuing to grow and to learn in your discipleship as you continue to develop and to experience new ways to practically plug into the transforming power of God.

    You never seem to be content to be doing God’s work as you might usually do. And you don’t preach/teach in generalities, but you are very careful to give inspired and inspiring attention to the small details of what God expects from us as we share in his redemptive work in this world. I’m blessed by your inspiring words. May God continue to lead you and to inspire you in your ongoing ministries through the new year. We will certain need his wisdom and power in order to faithfully serve him in the midst of the “stormy” year that is approaching.

  15. Dear Frank,
    As a true disciple, you will not know how many have been blessed by your guidance in this phase of existence. Having read or listened to nearly all of your works, wonderful new doors of truth and sound doctrine (I know it’s a misguided cliche, but better descriptors escape me at the moment) have opened to me in the works of many other apologists both ancient and contemporary. These have I gleaned from the references cited in your books. Oh how amazing must a love be that preserves inspired works from millennium untold through this very moment. Origen, Augustine, Clement, Luther, Lewis…dare I include Viola?? YES Indeed!

    My point? The marvel with which we behold the current events, testifies to our ignorance of even the basic tenants of the faith. Is it not written: “Marvel not at these things which must come to pass”? Has there been an age that the bride has not been persecuted and tormented? Howbeit now that we cry out in bewilderment that the birth pangs continue with increasing intensity? Brethren, we have been “pregnant” for 2000 years. Our Beloved will not permit any permanent harm to befall us. This fact should be our comfort and consolation.

    • Honored by your comments. Even humbled by them, though I don’t regard myself to be worthy to touch the hem of Augustine’s and Lewis’ garments. But I am very blessed to know that my work is being read by some. That news alone motivates and inspires me to continue to write and speak, despite the difficulty involved.

  16. Thanks so much for taking the time to think this through.
    God is the GOD of justice and also of mercy. Which should we prefer?

  17. Thank you, Frank. I have been blessed and moved to tears when I read testimonies of how God is using people who flee and those who choose to stay in the conflict going on in the Middle East. Voice of the Martyrs is one magazine I would recommend people read. I have read a few of the articles to my 7 & 8 year olds (some of them are too descriptive to share). I have been blown away by how God is using our brothers and sisters over there to share Christ with others – laying their own lives down for the sake of Christ. Secular Muslims reading the Koran for the first time and turning away from the Muslim religion altogether. They need to be shown that there is another way. “Secular” Christians who are persecuted for being a Christian and thru it are told what they must do to be saved! Lives are being transformed and changed and you won’t hear that on the major networks or even Facebook! We must continue to pray for revival in the midst of all this evil and lift up our brothers and sisters out there on the front line.

  18. Just one comment out of many possible ones. ISIS is drawing recruits from Muslims. That is very different from Christians trying to get non-Christians to become Christians.

  19. So wouldn’t it be nice if we could easily re-post your comments/blogs on FB. It’s such an awesome “Prayer Chain”.

  20. Hello Frank

    An excellent article that strikes to the core. You have accurately pointed out the fruitless and provided seed that bears fruit of deep thought and action.

    Your point #2 truly resonated with me, and your final point drove everything home. It is the traumas in our lives where Christ knock on the door of our heart, such as the death of a loved one. There Christ presents us with the binary choice, do you love me and surrender yourself to my care, or will you merely enjoy what I say and not come to me daily to have the oil of your lamp replenished.

    “It’s time to stop playing religious games and become serious about our life in Christ and our growth into the deeper things that relate to Him.

    Only this will get us through in the days ahead. A shallow, superficial, status-quo-maintaining Christianity simply cannot.”

    To your summary in quotations above, I say, AMEN.

  21. We are to pray for our enemies. I read a story about a man who had been part of ISIS and was so grieved by what he saw and participated in that he escaped to Turkey and his life was at risk. He was so undone that he said he hated himself, couldn’t eat or sleep. My heart went out to this man and I still continue to pray for him and all those trapped in ISIS who want to get out but can’t safely see their way out. I pray for their redemption as well as those whose hearts are not yet turned against the evil they are propagating. I can’t imagine how horrible it will be eternally for those who are doing monstrous evil and thinking that it is good. We must pray for their repentance and redemption no matter how distasteful it may seem. There ARE those who WILL have hearts than can be turned! And we must reach out to the refugees who are fleeing ISIS. This is a mission field in itself. Let us act first in love, always with the Lord’s grace and wisdom.

  22. This is certainly a great response to the Isis problem. Our response and according actions should always be based on Biblical World View and Kingdom principles. This article does both.

  23. Good insights. I have often thought the same about the 1st point…they certainly know how to rally for a cause. That said, don’the you think that those things that call to Flesh v. Spirit will always have the “upper hand” to some degree? Not to relieve myself of the responsibility of evangelism…peaceable, Christ-like evagelism…but I feel that those that walk in the Spirit will always be in the minority while confined to the barriers of living on earth. Should we be tossing our “pearls to pigs”? Shouldn’t any fear we have be offset by the fact that this more obvious decline of the world we live in (more subtle tactics abound via media, what I like to call sunshine-preaching, and other very sly Spirit-killers) is most certainly to be expected? Sorry for the long response…this topic and how I deal with it and how I explain and guide my young daughter through it have been heavy on my heart….not wanting to compromise my commitment to being a true follower of Christ.

    • If one takes a hard look at the devotion that the Christians had to their Lord in the first century, it was a full-out, willing-to-die-for their Master. And many of them they did. In the most savage ways.

      In that light, I believe my point stands. Comparing it to the Christianity of our time, however, it’s easy to make excuses and justifications.

      A large part of my ministry is to recover the brand of devotion that the first-century Christians had for their Lord. And this begins with an eye-opening revelation of Christ to our hearts that blows us away with an utter abandonment to Jesus. When Christ is preached in glory, this is how it starts. Regrettably, Christ is rarely preached like that today. That’s one of the reasons why I created the DCLN. And we’re seeing that kind of transformation and devotion as a result.

      • Frank, this was a masterful article and I agree with what you’re saying here. You’re not saying that there should be more devoted Jesus followers than ISIS followers. You’re saying that those who are devoted to Jesus should be at least as devoted to him as ISIS members are to their cause.

        I don’t understand how a person can read the new testament or church history and come to any other conclusion. Perhaps because it’s a convicting point that some Christians take issue with it and make excuses for their lack of radical devotion like you said.

        Thanks for writing this. Keep the updates coming!

  24. Thank you for this Frank. For me, this was the most important, convicting and inspiring blog you have written because it is a very real call to action. Would be great to see a follow up i.e. – if this is the call to action, whats the action plan to get off our backsides and start making a difference.

    • Don, the material that’s on the DCLN — and that’s coming on it — is my follow up. I’m also writing a book on this topic for the larger Christian population. But my calling is very specific and narrow. And one of the great mistakes of many leaders is to move outside their callings and take on things that God hasn’t called them to.

      The blog is now public, so if a leader in a large Christian organization wants to follow through with point 3 and implement it, I’m happy to hear from them. I was inspired to write the piece for my readers, but others who have means and a burden can do something about the strategic parts if they feel so inclined.

      • Frank, very few authors would engage with people the way you do, so I really appreciate your reply. 100% agree with what you said and good thing I am on the DCLN then :). It has been a real blessing. Thank you for all you have put into it.

        Just one last note (and I hope this is an encouragement) – the heart in which you wrote in this post (and other posts) made me think of some of the early church writers – Clement, Ignatius etc. I don’t recall any of those guys calling for a physical war against the Romans. They understood that the real war was spiritual.

  25. This is an excellent piece! Thank you, Frank.

    On another note, like the fallout from Ayatollah Khomeini in Iran, many Muslims are becoming disillusioned with Islam as a result of IS brutality and are turning to the Lord.

    Thank you for the opportunity to comment.

    God bless you, Mike Taylor (of London).

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