In his novel "The Time Machine", H.G. Wells tells the tale of a scientist who travels forward in time to discover the Eloi -- a society of childlike adults who live in large, futuristic, and yet slowly deteriorating buildings.
The Eloi do no work and live on a fruit-only diet. He speculates they are a peaceful communist-type of society -- the result of science finally conquering nature with technology -- and then adapting to an environment in which strength and intellect are no longer required for survival. It sounds pretty good to him. Man has finally evolved beyond greed and materialism.
However, the Time Traveler is soon confronted by the Moorlocks (the antithesis of the Eloi).
The Moorlocks are underground night-dwelling creatures who run the machinery to support the Eloi lifestyle. Unfortunately, they also use the Eloi as their primary food source. In other words, the Eloi are the livestock and the Moorlocks are the ranchers.
The author seems to understand that no matter how great man's aspirations might be, we're still human and some negative aspect of that humanity is going to remain intact on this planet -- regardless of how far science, technology, or education might take us.
As believers, we know the cause of the degradation of our society. It is simply sin. And Jesus is the only solution. Yet our view is different because we know how the story ends. But it's not an improvement of this world -- it's a replacement!
(2 Peter 3:13: "But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.")
I am impressed by much of the social progress humanity has made over the last hundred years. Yet I am appalled by our barbarism as well (legalized abortion and genocide are good examples). It's a constant reminder of how much we need Jesus. How much faith have you placed in humanity? I have none. My faith is only in our Savior.
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