Ephesians 5:14
Verse
Context
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherefore he saith - It is a matter of doubt and controversy whence this saying is derived. Some think it taken from Isa 26:19 : Thy dead men shall live; with my dead body shall they arise; Awake and sing, ye that dwell in the dust, etc. Others think that it is taken from Isa 60:1-3 : Arise, shine; for thy light is come, etc. But these passages neither give the words nor the meaning of the apostle. Epiphanius supposed them to be taken from an ancient prophecy of Elijah, long since lost: Syncellus and Euthalius think they were taken from an apocryphal work attributed to Jeremiah the prophet: others, that they made part of a hymn then used in the Christian Church; for that there were, in the apostle's time, hymns and spiritual songs, as well as psalms, we learn from himself, in Eph 5:19, and from Col 3:16. The hymn is supposed to have begun thus: - Εγειραι ὁ καθευδων, Και αναστα εκ των νεκρων, Επιφαυσει σοι ὁ Χριστος. Awake, O thou who sleepest, And from the dead arise thou, And Christ shall shine upon thee. See Rosenmuller, Wolf, and others. But it seems more natural to understand the words he saith as referring to the light, i.e. the Gospel, mentioned Eph 5:13. And the διο λεγει should be translated, Wherefore It saith, Awake thou, etc. that is: This is the general, the strong, commanding voice of the Gospel in every part - Receive instruction; leave thy sins, which are leading thee to perdition; believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and he will enlighten and save thee. As a man asleep neither knows nor does any thing that can be called good or useful, so the Gentiles and all others, while without the knowledge of Christianity, had not only no proper knowledge of vice and virtue, but they had no correct notion of the true God. As the dead can perform no function of life, so the Gentiles and the unconverted were incapable of performing any thing worthy either of life or being. But though they were asleep - in a state of complete spiritual torpor, yet they might be awoke by the voice of the Gospel; and though dead to all goodness, and to every function of the spiritual life, yet, as their animal life was whole in them, and perception and reason were still left, they were capable of hearing the Gospel, and under that influence which always accompanies it when faithfully preached, they could discern its excellency, and find it to be the power of God to their salvation. And they are addressed by the apostle as possessing this capacity; and, on their using it properly, have the promise that Christ shall enlighten them.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Wherefore--referring to the whole foregoing argument (Eph 5:8, Eph 5:11, Eph 5:13). Seeing that light (spiritual) dispels the pre-existing darkness, He (God) saith . . . (compare the same phrase, Eph 4:8). Awake--The reading of all the oldest manuscripts is "Up!" or, "Rouse thee!" a phrase used in stirring men to activity. The words are a paraphrase of Isa 60:1-2, not an exact quotation. The word "Christ," shows that in quoting the prophecy, he views it in the light thrown on it by its Gospel fulfilment. As Israel is called on to "awake" from its previous state of "darkness" and "death" (Isa 59:10; Isa 60:2), for that her Light is come; so the Church, and each individual is similarly called to awake. Believers are called on to "awake" out of sleep; unbelievers, to "arise" from the dead (compare Mat 25:5; Rom 13:11; Th1 5:6, with Eph 2:1). Christ--"the true light," "the Sun of righteousness." give thee light--rather, as Greek, "shall shine upon thee" (so enabling thee by being "made manifest" to become, and be, by the very fact, "light," Eph 5:13; then being so "enlightened," Eph 1:18, thou shalt be able, by "reproving," to enlighten others).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Redeeming the time,.... Or "buying time"; a like expression is used in Dan 2:8, which we render, gain time: but in the Chaldee text it is, "buy time": and so Jacchiades, a Jewish commentator on the place, renders it, , "ye buy this opportunity"; and the Septuagint version uses the same phrase the apostle does here; but there it seems to signify a study to prolong time, to put off the business to another season; but here taking time for a space of time, it denotes a careful and diligent use of it, an improvement of it to the best advantage; and shows that it is valuable and precious, and is not to be trifled with, and squandered away, and be lost, as it may be; for it can neither be recalled nor prolonged: and taking it for an opportunity of doing good to ourselves or others, it signifies that no opportunity of discharging our duty to God and man, of attending on the word and ordinances of the Gospel, and to the private and public exercises of religion, of gaining advantage to our own souls, or of gaining the souls of others, and of doing good either to the bodies or souls of men, should be neglected; but even all risks should be run, and means used to enjoy it: in the Syriac and Chaldee languages, "time", comes from "to redeem": the reason the apostle gives for the redemption of time is, because the days are evil; as such are, in which iniquity abounds, and many wicked men live, and errors and heresies prevail, and are days of affliction or persecution; see Gen 47:9.
Ephesians 5:14
Children of Light
13But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for everything that is illuminated becomes a light itself. 14So it is said: “Wake up, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Revival Hymn
By Compilations135K35:35CompilationISA 52:1MAT 11:28JHN 3:8ACT 2:1ROM 13:11EPH 5:14HEB 10:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the mission to spread the word of God. He shares a story about the Moravian missions and how their purpose was for the land that was slain to receive the reward of his suffering. The speaker also challenges the audience to consider whether they view God as an end or a means in their lives. He urges them to demonstrate Christianity rather than just define it. The sermon concludes with powerful testimonies of people experiencing God's mercy and the transformative power of His presence.
(Awake! Series): Two Kinds of Sleeping People
By A.W. Tozer11K29:01SleepinessPSA 51:5ISA 51:9ISA 52:1ACT 11:24ROM 3:10EPH 5:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being alert and responsive to the call of God. He compares it to a person who suddenly wakes up and reacts quickly when they see a train approaching. The preacher also addresses those who have grown up in Christian homes and have become desensitized to the teachings of Christianity. He warns against using God for personal gain instead of offering oneself to be used by God. The preacher urges Christians to be aware of what is happening in the world and to understand the deeper meaning behind current events.
(How to Get Out of a Religious Rut): Awakened Out of Sleep
By A.W. Tozer6.4K25:32Religious RutPSA 3:5PSA 4:8PSA 121:4PSA 127:2ISA 60:1ROM 13:11EPH 5:14In this sermon, the preacher draws a parallel between the Israelites in the Old Testament and the Church and its members in the present day. He emphasizes that both have settled into a contented rut and have become complacent in their spiritual journey. The preacher urges the congregation to break free from this routine and take hold of the promises and blessings that God has for them. He shares testimonies of individuals who were inspired by his previous sermons to let go of material possessions and idols in order to pursue a deeper relationship with God.
(Revelation - Part 13): When the Seven Trumpets Sound
By A.W. Tozer6.0K41:13Book Of RevelationMAT 11:28EPH 5:14REV 2:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the idea that God may cleanse not only the earth but also the heavens and space. He refers to the fourth angel sounding the trumpet, which results in the sun, moon, and stars being darkened. The preacher emphasizes that this event has not yet occurred and introduces the idea that the voice we hear now is not one of judgment but of invitation and repentance. He also mentions the first angel sounding the trumpet, which brings hail and fire mixed with blood upon the earth, and the second angel sounding the trumpet, which causes a great burning mountain to be cast into the sea, turning a third of it into blood and causing destruction. The preacher highlights the idea that these events are a response to humanity's love for fire and blood.
(Re-Mix) the Revival Hymn
By Compilations5.2K35:35CompilationISA 52:1MAT 11:28JHN 3:8ACT 2:1ROM 13:11EPH 5:14HEB 10:31In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the mission to spread the word of God. He shares a story about the Moravian missions and how their purpose was for the land that was slain to receive the reward of his suffering. The speaker also challenges the audience to consider whether they view God as an end or a means in their lives. He urges them to demonstrate Christianity rather than just define it. The sermon concludes with powerful testimonies of people experiencing God's mercy and the transformative power of His presence.
The Awakening of 1727 Onward
By J. Edwin Orr4.0K28:002CH 7:14PSA 85:6ISA 57:15JOL 2:28HAB 3:2MAT 9:37ACT 2:17ROM 12:2EPH 5:14REV 2:5This sermon delves into the historical context of the Evangelical Revival in Great Britain and the Great Awakening in America during the 18th century, highlighting the societal depravity, moral decay, and spiritual decline that necessitated these revivals. It explores the transformative impact of key figures like John Wesley and George Whitefield, the beginnings of the Methodist movement, and the widespread revival that reshaped the English-speaking world, leading people back to God.
The Awakening of 1904 in Wales
By J. Edwin Orr3.8K29:182CH 7:14PSA 85:6ISA 44:3JOL 2:28MAT 5:16JHN 3:16ACT 2:17ROM 12:2GAL 5:22EPH 5:14This sermon delves into the powerful impact of the Welsh Revival of the early 20th century, highlighting the widespread spiritual awakening that swept through Wales and beyond. It explores the transformative effects on individuals, communities, and even societal norms, showcasing the profound changes brought about by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit during this revival period.
The Word of God Searches the Heart
By B.H. Clendennen3.7K58:35ScripturesMAT 6:33ACT 13:27EPH 5:14HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher begins by expressing gratitude for the presence of God and the opportunity to open the Word of God. He focuses on Hebrews 4:12-13, emphasizing the power and significance of the Word of God. The preacher warns against carelessness and highlights the importance of being attentive to God's will. He emphasizes that the Word of God is alive and powerful, capable of discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. The sermon concludes with a reminder that we must be willing to allow the Word of God to wound and divide us in order for God to work in our lives.
We Have Been Taught Not to Discern - Part 1
By Andrew Strom3.1K10:002CH 7:14PSA 85:6ISA 43:19JOL 2:12HAB 3:2MAT 5:13ACT 3:19EPH 5:14JAS 4:8REV 2:5The sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing and seizing the opportunity for revival, drawing parallels between the historical revivals in Wales and America. It warns about the potential consequences of missing the wave of revival and highlights the need for spiritual awakening and restoration in the nation. The speaker shares insights on the cyclical nature of revivals and the critical role of prayer and seeking God's movement in bringing about spiritual renewal.
Do I Believe (Compilation)
By Compilations3.0K11:04Compilation1CO 6:19EPH 5:8EPH 5:14HEB 3:17HEB 11:61JN 1:91JN 2:1JUD 1:24In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of walking in the light and not focusing on one's weaknesses and abilities. He refers to the story of the 10 spies who gave an evil report about the land of milk and honey, highlighting their lack of faith and belief in their own abilities. The preacher shares examples of witnessing God's power to transform and raise the dead, emphasizing the need for faith in order to please God. He warns against the dangers of unbelief and encourages listeners to fully commit their lives to trusting in God rather than seeking miracles.
Amazing Love Profile of the Hymn
By William MacDonald2.9K34:20HymnologyGEN 1:3MAT 6:33JHN 8:12ACT 26:182CO 4:6EPH 5:141PE 2:9In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the state of a soul without Jesus Christ, describing it as being imprisoned, in bondage, and in shame. He emphasizes that being unsaved is actually a form of slavery to sin, Satan, and self. The preacher then highlights the transformative power of the gospel, using the example of Charles Wesley's experience. Wesley's spiritual awakening is likened to a dungeon being flooded with light, and his chains of sin falling off, resulting in a heart set free to please God. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the importance of responding to the gospel invitation and following Jesus.
How to Resurrect a Dead Church
By David Wilkerson2.3K30:12EXO 33:142CH 7:14PSA 51:10MAT 18:20JHN 15:4ACT 3:19EPH 5:14HEB 12:28JAS 4:8REV 3:2This sermon emphasizes the need for churches to be revived by the presence of Jesus Christ, highlighting the decline in spiritual fervor and the rise of dead churches. It calls for a return to prayer, communion with God, and a deep seeking of His presence to bring about true revival and transformation in churches and leaders. The speaker shares personal experiences and insights on the importance of maintaining a genuine connection with God to combat spiritual deadness and ensure the manifestation of Christ's presence in every service.
While Men Slept
By Leonard Ravenhill2.3K53:17Spiritual WarfareAwakeningPrayerPSA 126:5MAT 13:24EPH 5:14Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the critical state of the Church, likening it to a deep sleep while the enemy sows discord and error among believers. He draws from Matthew 13:24, highlighting the urgency for Christians to awaken and actively engage in spiritual warfare against the forces of darkness. Ravenhill stresses the necessity of prayer, sacrifice, and a genuine commitment to spreading the Gospel, warning that complacency leads to spiritual decay. He calls for a revival of fervent faith and action, urging believers to live with eternity's values in view and to recognize the cost of discipleship. The sermon serves as a wake-up call for the Church to rise and fulfill its mission in a world increasingly hostile to the truth.
Alive or Dead (Reading)
By J.C. Ryle2.3K39:072KI 13:21EZK 18:4MAT 6:33MAT 23:37JHN 3:3EPH 5:14COL 2:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a consistent and faithful life as a witness for God. He urges listeners to let their words, actions, and attitudes align with their faith. The preacher also highlights the urgency of turning away from sin and seeking salvation, reminding listeners that God does not desire anyone to perish. He emphasizes the love and compassion of Jesus, who weeps over those who reject him and offers them the opportunity to be gathered under his care. The preacher concludes by affirming that a true transformation of the soul is possible and necessary for all individuals.
The Wonder
By Vance Havner2.1K38:36MAT 18:3MAT 19:14MRK 10:141CO 13:11EPH 5:141TH 1:31TI 4:12In this sermon, the preacher discusses the loss of wonder and imagination in children as they grow older. He mentions how children are full of curiosity and imagination, but as they become exposed to more things through technology, they become cynical and lose their sense of wonder. The preacher emphasizes the importance of maintaining a childlike wonder and encourages the congregation to not lose it. He also mentions the importance of making decisions and following through with obedience, using the story of the prodigal son as an example.
The Awakening of 1905 in North America
By J. Edwin Orr2.1K27:372CH 7:14PSA 85:6JOL 2:28MAT 9:37ACT 1:8ACT 2:17ROM 12:2EPH 5:141TH 5:16JAS 5:16This sermon recounts the powerful revival that swept through the United States in 1905, sparked by the Welsh revival. It emphasizes the impact of prayer, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and the transformation of individuals, churches, and communities. The sermon highlights the unstructured nature of the revival, the emphasis on repentance and new life, and the societal reforms and civic righteousness that followed in various cities.
The Movements Between World Wars
By J. Edwin Orr2.1K24:382CH 7:14PSA 85:6ISA 57:15JOL 2:28MAT 5:16ACT 1:8ROM 12:11EPH 5:14COL 3:1JAS 4:8This sermon recounts historical revivals and movements of God in various countries, highlighting the impact of prayer, powerful preaching, and the work of true Christians in bringing about spiritual awakenings. It emphasizes the role of individuals like W. P. Nicholson, John Sung, and others in sparking revivals amidst challenging circumstances, leading to conversions, missionary work, and lasting spiritual transformations.
The Resurgence of 1830 Onward
By J. Edwin Orr1.7K27:352CH 7:14PSA 85:6ISA 57:15JOL 2:28HAB 3:2ACT 2:17ROM 12:11EPH 5:141TH 5:19REV 2:5This sermon delves into the historical significance of revivals and awakenings, emphasizing the impact of past movements of God's Spirit in various regions like Hawaii, Scotland, Tonga, and the United States. It highlights the transformative power of prayer, the spread of the gospel, and the challenges faced by believers in different denominations during times of revival. The sermon also addresses the importance of learning from history to avoid repeating past mistakes and to embrace the work of God's Spirit in bringing about spiritual renewal.
Numbering Our Days
By Dean Stump1.7K1:28:43Brevity Of LifePSA 90:2EPH 5:14In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the brevity of life and the importance of seeking wisdom from God. He emphasizes the need to number our days and apply our hearts to wisdom. The speaker warns against the dangers of forgetting God and becoming consumed by worldly prosperity. He encourages listeners to take control of their bodies and desires, directing them towards God's will and purpose.
The Alarm
By C.H. Spurgeon1.7K50:27PSA 57:8ISA 60:1MAT 24:44JHN 3:16ROM 13:112CO 5:19EPH 5:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of wakefulness in the spiritual life. He starts by discussing the power of praise and how even birds sing with all their might, encouraging believers to praise God wholeheartedly. The preacher then highlights the need for wakefulness in the church, stating that it is lacking in the present time. He urges believers to wake up their souls and continue praising God, even in difficult circumstances. The sermon concludes with a warning about the consequences of spiritual slumber, using the analogy of a sleeping man in a canoe heading towards a dangerous waterfall.
The Tyranny of the Soul
By Devern Fromke1.5K1:13:46TyrannyPRO 4:18MAT 6:33JHN 11:1EPH 5:14HEB 12:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of spiritual reality over mere religious practices. He highlights the tendency for people to focus on urgent tasks and externalities, rather than prioritizing the deeper, spiritual aspects of their faith. The speaker encourages listeners to move beyond surface-level religion and seek the heart and reality of what God desires. He also mentions the significance of the Lord's table and the need to approach worship with a genuine, experiential connection to Jesus.
(Revival) What Is Revival - Part 1
By Michael L. Brown1.5K34:032CH 7:14PSA 85:6ISA 64:1JOL 2:28HAB 3:2ACT 1:8EPH 5:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing what we don't know. He uses examples of a person unaware of a storm damaging their belongings and an employee unaware of their impending termination to illustrate how ignorance can lead to a false sense of security. The speaker then applies this concept to the spiritual realm, stating that many Christians are unaware of how little they are walking in God's purpose and plan. Revival is described as a means to wake the body of believers from their spiritual lethargy and restore truth and obedience. The speaker concludes by urging listeners to realize their limitations and seek a deeper understanding of God's ways.
Raising the Dead
By Carter Conlon1.4K1:02:22EZK 37:4JHN 16:24ROM 8:26EPH 5:14JAS 5:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of believers being commanded by God to speak His words into the lives of others, to intercede in prayer, and to believe for the miraculous transformation of those who are spiritually dead. It calls for a deep desire to make a difference in this generation by being vessels through which the Holy Spirit can breathe life and raise up an army for God's glory.
Mind the Light
By Erlo Stegen1.4K1:00:15Light Of GodEXO 33:20ISA 6:1MAT 4:16ROM 13:11EPH 5:11EPH 5:141JN 1:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of examining one's own life and the impact they have on others. He urges listeners to consider whether they are living according to the Bible and if they are shining the light of God's holiness in the world. The preacher acknowledges the darkness and immorality present in the world but encourages believers to be lighthouses and spread the gospel. He shares a personal experience of a powerful repentance moment and highlights the urgency of repentance and turning away from sin. The sermon also touches on the issue of people not listening and falling asleep in church, leading to spiritual death. The preacher warns against the influence of false teachings, such as the denial of hell, and emphasizes the richness of Africa, not in material wealth but in spiritual potential.
The Anatomy of a Christ Awakening
By David Bryant1.4K24:47Spiritual AwakeningISA 60:1MAT 6:33EPH 5:14COL 1:18REV 3:1In this video, David Bryant shares his experience of speaking at a national denominational conference on the theme of a national Christ awakening. He delivered three messages titled "The Anatomy of a Christ Awakening," "The Crisis that Demands a Christ Awakening," and "How to Prepare the Way for a Christ Awakening." The response to his messages was overwhelming, with 1500 copies of his book selling out within an hour. Bryant emphasizes the importance of living in silence before the supremacy of God's Son and believes that if believers make it a lifestyle, every dream and vision God has for the church can be easily fulfilled.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherefore he saith - It is a matter of doubt and controversy whence this saying is derived. Some think it taken from Isa 26:19 : Thy dead men shall live; with my dead body shall they arise; Awake and sing, ye that dwell in the dust, etc. Others think that it is taken from Isa 60:1-3 : Arise, shine; for thy light is come, etc. But these passages neither give the words nor the meaning of the apostle. Epiphanius supposed them to be taken from an ancient prophecy of Elijah, long since lost: Syncellus and Euthalius think they were taken from an apocryphal work attributed to Jeremiah the prophet: others, that they made part of a hymn then used in the Christian Church; for that there were, in the apostle's time, hymns and spiritual songs, as well as psalms, we learn from himself, in Eph 5:19, and from Col 3:16. The hymn is supposed to have begun thus: - Εγειραι ὁ καθευδων, Και αναστα εκ των νεκρων, Επιφαυσει σοι ὁ Χριστος. Awake, O thou who sleepest, And from the dead arise thou, And Christ shall shine upon thee. See Rosenmuller, Wolf, and others. But it seems more natural to understand the words he saith as referring to the light, i.e. the Gospel, mentioned Eph 5:13. And the διο λεγει should be translated, Wherefore It saith, Awake thou, etc. that is: This is the general, the strong, commanding voice of the Gospel in every part - Receive instruction; leave thy sins, which are leading thee to perdition; believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and he will enlighten and save thee. As a man asleep neither knows nor does any thing that can be called good or useful, so the Gentiles and all others, while without the knowledge of Christianity, had not only no proper knowledge of vice and virtue, but they had no correct notion of the true God. As the dead can perform no function of life, so the Gentiles and the unconverted were incapable of performing any thing worthy either of life or being. But though they were asleep - in a state of complete spiritual torpor, yet they might be awoke by the voice of the Gospel; and though dead to all goodness, and to every function of the spiritual life, yet, as their animal life was whole in them, and perception and reason were still left, they were capable of hearing the Gospel, and under that influence which always accompanies it when faithfully preached, they could discern its excellency, and find it to be the power of God to their salvation. And they are addressed by the apostle as possessing this capacity; and, on their using it properly, have the promise that Christ shall enlighten them.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Wherefore--referring to the whole foregoing argument (Eph 5:8, Eph 5:11, Eph 5:13). Seeing that light (spiritual) dispels the pre-existing darkness, He (God) saith . . . (compare the same phrase, Eph 4:8). Awake--The reading of all the oldest manuscripts is "Up!" or, "Rouse thee!" a phrase used in stirring men to activity. The words are a paraphrase of Isa 60:1-2, not an exact quotation. The word "Christ," shows that in quoting the prophecy, he views it in the light thrown on it by its Gospel fulfilment. As Israel is called on to "awake" from its previous state of "darkness" and "death" (Isa 59:10; Isa 60:2), for that her Light is come; so the Church, and each individual is similarly called to awake. Believers are called on to "awake" out of sleep; unbelievers, to "arise" from the dead (compare Mat 25:5; Rom 13:11; Th1 5:6, with Eph 2:1). Christ--"the true light," "the Sun of righteousness." give thee light--rather, as Greek, "shall shine upon thee" (so enabling thee by being "made manifest" to become, and be, by the very fact, "light," Eph 5:13; then being so "enlightened," Eph 1:18, thou shalt be able, by "reproving," to enlighten others).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Redeeming the time,.... Or "buying time"; a like expression is used in Dan 2:8, which we render, gain time: but in the Chaldee text it is, "buy time": and so Jacchiades, a Jewish commentator on the place, renders it, , "ye buy this opportunity"; and the Septuagint version uses the same phrase the apostle does here; but there it seems to signify a study to prolong time, to put off the business to another season; but here taking time for a space of time, it denotes a careful and diligent use of it, an improvement of it to the best advantage; and shows that it is valuable and precious, and is not to be trifled with, and squandered away, and be lost, as it may be; for it can neither be recalled nor prolonged: and taking it for an opportunity of doing good to ourselves or others, it signifies that no opportunity of discharging our duty to God and man, of attending on the word and ordinances of the Gospel, and to the private and public exercises of religion, of gaining advantage to our own souls, or of gaining the souls of others, and of doing good either to the bodies or souls of men, should be neglected; but even all risks should be run, and means used to enjoy it: in the Syriac and Chaldee languages, "time", comes from "to redeem": the reason the apostle gives for the redemption of time is, because the days are evil; as such are, in which iniquity abounds, and many wicked men live, and errors and heresies prevail, and are days of affliction or persecution; see Gen 47:9.