A number of times this last week I've seen articles and faxes about Project Megiddo. Perhaps this is the first time you have heard about it, so let me explain.
Project Megiddo is a co-operative effort between the FBI and state and local law enforcement officials. They warn of the dangers that certain "fanatical Christian groups" may present to national security at the turn of the century. As you may know, some of these groups want to hasten the Second Coming of Jesus Christ by their actions. It is quite possible that some of these groups may commit acts of terrorism, so the FBI and other law enforcement agencies want to be ready.
Well, I think you can see the danger here. On the one hand, the FBI would be irresponsible if it didn't prepare for the possible contingency of terrorist acts by these so-called Christian groups. On the other hand, the FBI is identifying these groups as Christian groups and has been singling them out as dangerous. The possible spill over to other Christians could be substantial, especially from an agency that has already been policitized under the current administration.
In a biblically literate world where clear thinking reigns, such concerns are illegitimate. But in the current political and social climate, I believe it would be all to easy to lump people who read the Left Behind series with those bent on hastening Christ's return. From recent statements, it appears that Attorney General Janet Reno doesn't make such clear distinctions.
Does that mean that Christians are in danger of being unjustly persecuted? Not at all. But is there a possibility that a stigma could be attached to Christians who believe in the second coming of Christ? I think so. And that is my concern with Project Megiddo.
I'm Kerby Anderson of Probe Ministries, and that's my opinion.