Society “has a fever.” Is that a good sign?
The level of aggression in our society is growing exponentially—and it has been fueled by the government for the past seven years. The targets are familiar: the “former” authorities, Karabakh Armenians, Russians, “Russian slaves,” and clergy. As the ruling authorities feel an increased threat of losing power, their aggression intensifies, now coupled with the repression of political opponents. Even our compatriots held captive in Baku are not spared by government supporters.
Of course, it’s not as if the opposition always maintains a restrained or purely political tone. I disapprove when politicians—or especially clergymen—speak of “shooting,” even in private phone conversations. Whether that qualifies as grounds for accusing someone of plotting a military coup is another matter. But one thing is clear: the side stirring this chaos, dividing society, and escalating aggression is the government—led by the Prime Minister.
The truth is that, regardless of which side we are on, we as a society are becoming more nervous, more intolerant, more hostile. We are drowning in sin. So what can we oppose to all this?
Read also
The Apostle Paul writes: “But where sin increased, grace abounded all the more” (Romans 5:20). Another translation puts it: “The law came in so that the trespass might increase; but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more.”
Though the emphasis differs slightly—cause versus contrast—the core message remains the same: God gave the Law so that we might recognize the depth and scale of our sins. But in response to that growing awareness of sin, God extends even greater grace. Why? So that we might be saved, so that we may be freed from those sins. In other words, no matter how heavy a person’s sin—God’s grace is greater. Stronger.
It is never too late to stop, to repent, and to forgive. That door is always open with God. But the order matters: stop—repent—forgive. If someone admits their sin, even harbors a shred of doubt about their actions, then they remain human. For them, that door of grace remains open. But there are others—those who have committed terrible wrongs and continue to speak with pride and arrogance. These people reject God’s grace and miss that extraordinary chance. Even if they live in palaces surrounded by gold, one can only feel pity for them.
Yes, the “temperature” of society is rising. But if we compare society to a human body, then even a high fever has its purpose. It’s a sign of illness—but also a sign that the body is fighting back. We are sick now. But if we recognize that illness for what it is, we may yet begin the path to healing. And on the other side of that sickness—sometimes—people emerge wiser.
Aram ABRAHAMYAN
