During the middle of the Great Depression (1935), Sinclair Lewis published a short but very penetrating book entitled “It Can’t Happen Here.” Below is an Internet-provided summary of the book.
“It Can’t Happen Here” explores the rise of authoritarianism in the United States through the story of Berzelius “Buzz” Windrip, a populist demagogue who becomes president by exploiting economic fears and nationalist rhetoric. Once in power, Windrip transforms the government into a dictatorship, dismantling democratic institutions, suppressing dissent, and establishing a paramilitary force called the Minute Men.
The novel’s protagonist, Doremus Jessup, a small-town newspaper editor, initially underestimates Windrip but gradually becomes involved in the resistance against the regime. Through Jessup’s experiences, the book examines themes of complacency, propaganda, and the fragility of democracy.
Lewis’ work serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of totalitarianism and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding democratic freedoms. It remains a powerful and relevant exploration of how authoritarianism can take root in any society.
I recently read Sinclair Lewis’s book and found myself both chuckling at times and startled by its insights. Reflecting on Ezekiel’s message to the nations surrounding Judah, I am reminded of the book’s title, “It Can’t Happen Here.”
Many of those nations likely held a similar belief—thinking disaster couldn’t come to them. Yet, despite their confidence, it did happen there.
As we consider this message in our own context, it’s wise to turn to God and ask, “Could it happen here in my lifetime?”
The Demise of Tyre
People with a dominant economy often believe they are destined to rule the world. The possibility of losing their wealth is the furthest thing from their minds.
However, God warns the powerhouse economy of Tyre that their fall is inevitable.
They will take your riches
and plunder your merchandise;
they shall break down your walls
and destroy your fine houses.
Your stones and timber and soil
they shall cast into the water.
I will silence the music of your songs;
the sound of your lyres shall be heard no more. (Ezekiel 26.12-13)
In the United States today, two aspects of society particularly stand out during the holidays. The first is the commercialization of the season. Everywhere we turn, we are encouraged to spend and purchase the goods offered by retailers.
The second is the focus on entertainment, which has become a central part of both the holidays and American life. But what would happen if these pillars of society—commercialism and entertainment—were suddenly taken away?
Could it happen here, as Sinclair Lewis suggests in his book?
The people of Tyre never believed disaster could happen to them, yet it did. What about us?
Worldwide Lamentation
An economic collapse in the United States would be devastating for its citizens. However, the impact would be even more catastrophic for smaller nations that rely on the U.S. economy to sustain their own.
Similarly, when Tyre fell, those who depended on its economic strength mourned the loss and the widespread devastation that followed its downfall.
Then all the princes of the sea shall step down from their thrones; they shall remove their robes and strip off their embroidered garments. They shall clothe themselves with trembling and shall sit on the ground; they shall tremble every moment and be appalled at you (Ezekiel 26.16).
How should a follower of God respond in the face of devastating loss?
One thing I like to do is to outline passages of Scripture to emphasize their meaning. Below is an outline of Jesus’ teaching on worry and anxiety (Matthew 6.25-34).
Consider His message in the context of the fear and trembling that can grip a nation facing economic collapse or the ravages of war.
- Do not worry about basic needs (food, drink, clothing); life is more than these essentials.
- God provides for creation:
- Birds do not sow or reap, yet God feeds them.
- Lilies of the field grow beautifully without toil, surpassing even Solomon’s splendor.
- If God cares for birds and grass, how much more will He care for you?
- Worry is unproductive: It cannot add a single hour to your life.
- Faith in God’s provision: Trust that God, who knows your needs, will provide for you.
- Seek God’s kingdom first: Prioritize seeking God and His righteousness, and your needs will be met.
- Do not worry about tomorrow: Each day has enough troubles; focus on the present and trust God for the future.
The cure for anxiety lies in trusting that God knows our needs and will provide for us. We do this by seeking His kingdom and His righteousness first, confident that He will take care of everything we need.
YouTube Discussion
Rudy Ross, Bruce Kirby, and I discussed this passage on YouTube today. It is on the Bob Spradling channel.
Real Voices 