Slideshow image

In a time when technology transforms daily life and societal norms change rapidly, it's worth taking a moment to reflect on our progress—and future direction. Since the late 1970s, family structures, workplaces, and communication styles have evolved in ways that would have seemed impossible back then. Yet amid these changes, one constant remains: the timeless truth found in ancient Scriptures. Drawing from the Gospel of John, chapter 10, verses 31-42, this article examines how biblical wisdom provides a steady anchor in uncertain times.

The Shifting Landscape of Society Since 1979

Consider the family unit. In 1979, traditional households led by married couples were dominant, with most children growing up in stable, two- parent homes. Fast forward to today, and the scene has changed significantly. Divorce rates have risen, cohabitation is common, and single- parent families are increasing. Recent analyses show that two- parent households in the United States have decreased as remarriage and non- traditional arrangements grow. Globally, more never- married parents, same- sex parents, and multi- partnered families reflect broader cultural shifts driven by changing views on gender roles and equality. These changes impact social cohesion, with some observers noting a sense of instability in communities where divorce and absent parents are widespread.

Work life has changed just as much. Loyalty to a single employer for decades—like factory jobs that defined entire careers—has shifted to gig work and frequent job changes. By 2030, artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to cause even more disruption, potentially automating up to 30% of current U. S. jobs and changing 60% at the task level. Globally, estimates suggest AI could affect 300 million jobs, though it may also create 20-50 million new positions in fields like tech and data analysis. This double- edged sword promises productivity boosts but also raises worries about displacement in sectors such as manufacturing and customer service.

Technology, naturally, plays a key role in this transformation. In 1979, cell phones didn' t exist, and personal computers were rare novelties. As of February 2025, 5. 56 billion people—67. 9% of the global population—are internet users. Smartphones are everywhere, with 4. 88 billion users worldwide, making up 60. 60.42% of the population owning one. In the U. S., 98% of adults own a mobile phone, and 91% have smartphones, resulting in over four hours daily spent on internet activities via these devices. Mobile traffic now makes up 64% of website visits, highlighting our shift to constant connectivity.

The Challenge of Discernment in an AI-Driven Age

These advancements offer convenience but also introduce complexity. AI-generated content, from drive-thru ordering systems to hyper-realistic images, blurs the line between real and fake. By 2030, AI could replace routine tasks in up to 800 million jobs worldwide, prompting a reevaluation of what "work" means. More dangerously, misinformation spreads rapidly on social media, where opinions are treated as facts, and algorithms intensify echo chambers. In such a world, the key question becomes: What can we truly trust?

Biblical Insights: Jesus' Defense in John 10

The Gospel of John offers a timeless answer. In chapter 10, verses 31-42, Jesus faces hostility from religious leaders who accuse Him of blasphemy for claiming unity with God the Father. Instead of relying only on His miracles or teachings, Jesus references Scripture, quoting Psalm 82:6: "Is it not written in your law, 'I said, ye are gods'?" He highlights that "Scripture cannot be broken," using sacred texts to affirm His divine identity.

Here, "gods" (lowercase) refers to human judges who symbolized divine authority in ancient Israel—not literal deities, but agents of God's justice. Jesus argues that if Scripture honors such representatives, it surely validates His claim as the Son sent by the Father. His words and deeds align with prophetic fulfillments, challenging doubters to trust in evidence rooted in unchanging truth.

This encounter reflects modern struggles. Just as first-century audiences wrestled with Jesus' claims despite witnessing miracles, today's skeptics question reality amid digital deceptions. Yet Scripture remains firm, described as "God-breathed" and useful for teaching, correcting, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). It lasts forever, with not even the tiniest detail passing away until all is fulfilled (Matthew 5:18; 1 Peter 1:25).

Embracing Scripture as an Anchor

The power of engaging with Scripture is demonstrated in the story of the Ethiopian official in Acts 8. Traveling home, he reads from Isaiah 53 about a suffering servant. When it is explained as pointing to Jesus, he believes, gets baptized, and undergoes transformation. This pattern holds: When people set aside distractions and immerse themselves in God's Word, doubts fade, and faith takes hold.

In practical terms, this means making Scripture a priority over the noise of social media or fleeting trends. It promises to do its work and achieve its purpose (Isaiah 55:11). For faith communities, gathering in small groups to study these texts encourages deeper understanding and mutual support.

A Path Forward: Commitment to Timeless Truth

As society continues to evolve—with AI transforming economies, families growing more diverse, and digital connectivity taking over—anchoring in Scripture provides stability. It reveals Jesus as the Son of God, guides us to live ethically, and counters misinformation with timeless wisdom. Whether exploring John's Gospel or Isaiah's prophecies, the message is clear: Read, meditate, and live out these truths.

In a world full of uncertainty, commit to this dependable foundation. Turn off your devices, open the Bible, and find the peace that comes from trusting what lasts. What actions will you take today to deepen your connection with these ancient words?