The Colosseum Mentality for Gladiator Sports by Marcel & Jacqueline Bruff

The Colosseum Mentality for Gladiator Sports.

Two days ago, I came across a heart-wrenching article about a mother, wife, and beloved boss who was brutally murdered in midtown Manhattan. What struck me was not only the senseless act of violence but also the disturbing celebration of her death on the internet. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the desensitization of humanity, a phenomenon that has been unfolding before our very eyes.

The Bible warns us of the increasing wickedness of the human heart, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?" (Jeremiah 17:9). This wickedness is manifesting in various forms, including the glorification of violence and bloodshed.

We live in an era where access to information and technology has exposed us to an unprecedented level of violence. Movies, music, and even children's cartoons often feature graphic content, desensitizing our minds and hearts. This exposure has led to a culture that craves more, often reveling in the suffering of others.

The ancient Colosseum, where gladiators fought to the death, seems to be reemerging in our modern society. The internet has become a virtual arena, where the masses gather to witness and celebrate violence. This disturbing trend is a stark reminder of the Bible's warning, "And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold" (Matthew 24:12).

As believers, we must recognize that we are living in a time of increasing persecution, where the martyrdom of saints is becoming more prevalent. Jesus warned us, "Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name's sake" (Matthew 24:9).

In the face of this growing darkness, the body of Christ must remain vigilant and steadfast. We must not allow ourselves to become desensitized to the horrors of violence and bloodshed. Instead, we must continue to stand as beacons of hope, shining the light of Christ in a world that desperately needs it.

As the apostle Paul encouraged the early church, "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose" (Romans 8:28). Let us hold fast to this promise, knowing that even in the midst of darkness, God is working all things together for our good.

Let us pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

We come before You, heavy-hearted and grieved by the senseless violence that plagues our world. We ask that You would grant us wisdom and discernment, that we might not become desensitized to the horrors of evil.

Strengthen Your church, dear Lord, that we might stand firm against the growing darkness. Give us courage to shine Your light in a world that desperately needs it.

Comfort the families of those who have been affected by violence, and grant them Your peace that surpasses all understanding.

In Jesus' name, we pray.

Amen.

Marcel and Jackie Bruff

@walkgoodinchrist

30th September 2025