Reading Jacques Ellul is like reading one of the minor Hebrew prophets. I picture him like Habakkuk upon his tower, awaiting an unnerving vision’s appointed time, fearing some uncertain scourge, questioning God. Ellul is better known as a critic of technology and less as a theologian, but I find it hard to draw a clear line between the two. A sociologist and cold chronicler of reality, at times he also bore the prophet’s mantle, offering a rhetorical mix of dread, faith, and hope. He spoke in absolutes, talked about the end of the world. He wanted us to see.

Jacques Ellul warned us of the dangers we now face.