In the last few years a number of nations have been shocked by random, senseless killings. The recent Binghamton, New York, massacre of 14 happened apparently because an angry immigrant was laughed at while trying to learn English.

Hearing of such events, those familiar with Scripture must recall the prophetic words of the apostle Paul: "Know also this, that in the last days shall come dangerous times" (2 Timothy 3:1, Douay-Rheims Bible). We do live in a dangerous world, and now we have the media technology to instantly immortalize mass murderers and show the entire world the carnage.

But why such random violence? The fundamental common cause in all murders is that an unseen power is afoot on the earth—Satan the devil, a being who influences people to dangerous and destructive acts (John 8:44; 1 Peter 5:8). The Bible says that as his time draws short and the Messiah's time grows near, he will influence society to become more dangerous, hoping to cause mankind to self-destruct (Matthew 24:21-22; Revelation 12:10, 12). To learn more, read our free booklet Is There Really a Devil?