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The Abomination of Desolation
23At that time, if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There He is!’ do not believe it.24For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders that would deceive even the elect, if that were possible.25See, I have told you in advance.
Sermons



Summary
Commentary
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets,.... Such as the above mentioned: these false Christs had their false prophets, who endeavoured to persuade the people to believe them to be the Messiah, as Barcochab had Akiba, who applied many prophecies to him. This man was called Barcochab, which signifies the son of a star, in allusion to Num 24:17 he was crowned by the Jews, and proclaimed the Messiah by Akiba; upon which a Roman army was sent against him, and a place called Bitter was besieged, and taken, and he, and a prodigious number of Jews were destroyed. This deceiver was afterwards, by them, called Barcoziba, the son of a lie: and shall show great signs and wonders; make an appearance of doing them, though they really did them not: so that Jonathan, before mentioned, pretended to show signs and sights; and Barcochab made as if flame came out of his mouth; and many of the Jewish doctors in these times, and following, gave themselves up to sorcery, and the magic art; and are, many of them, often said (s) to be , "expert in wonders", or miracles: if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. By whom we are to understand, not the choicest believers, or the persevering Christians: not but that such who are truly converted, are choice believers in Christ, and persevering Christians are undoubtedly the elect of God; but then the reason why they are elect, and why they are so called, is not because they are converted, are choice believers, and persevering Christians; but, on the contrary, the reason why they are converted, become true believers, and persevere to the end, is, because they are elected; conversion, faith, and perseverance being not the causes or conditions, but the fruits and effects of election: besides to talk of the final seduction of a persevering Christian, is a contradiction in terms. Such an interpretation of the phrase must be absurd and impertinent; for who knows not that a persevering Christian cannot be finally and totally deceived? But by the elect are meant, a select number of particular persons of Adam's posterity, whom God, of his sovereign goodwill and pleasure, without respect to their faith, holiness, and good works, has chosen, in Christ, before the foundation of the world, both to grace and glory: and to deceive these finally and totally, is impossible, as is here suggested; not impossible, considering their own weakness, and the craftiness of deceivers, who, if left to themselves, and the power of such deception, and the working of Satan with all deceivableness of unrighteousness, might easily be seduced; but considering the purposes and promises of God concerning them, the provisions of his grace for them, the security of them in the hands of Christ, and their preservation by the mighty power of God, their final and total deception is not only difficult, but impossible. They may be, and are deceived before conversion; this is one part of their character whilst unregenerate, "foolish, disobedient, deceived", Tit 3:3 yea, they may be, and oftentimes are, deceived after conversion; but then this is in part only, and not totally; in some lesser, and not in the greater matters of faith; not so as to let go their hold of Christ their head, and quit the doctrine of salvation by him, or fall into damnable heresies: they may be seduced from the simplicity of the Gospel, but not finally; for they shall be recovered out of the snare of the devil, and not to be left to perish in such deceivings. This clause, as it expresses the power of deceivers, and the efficacy of Satan, so the influence and certainty of electing grace and the sure and firm perseverance of the saints, to the end, notwithstanding the cunning and craft of men and devils; for if these, with all their signs and wonders, could not deceive them, it may be pronounced impossible that they ever should be finally and totally deceived. (s) T. Bab. Meila, fol. 17. 2. Juchasin, fol. 20. 1, 2. & 42. 2. & 56. 2. & 77. 1. & 96. 2.
The Abomination of Desolation
23At that time, if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There He is!’ do not believe it.24For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders that would deceive even the elect, if that were possible.25See, I have told you in advance.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Last Revival
By David Wilkerson3.7K45:23ISA 53:10ISA 54:7ISA 54:10MAT 24:11MAT 24:24GAL 4:26In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having faith that drives out fear. He quotes Isaiah 54:4, which reassures believers that they will not be ashamed or reproached. The preacher acknowledges the current state of the economy and the fear-inducing messages from the secular world and religious circles. However, he reminds the congregation that God has everything under control and encourages them to trust in Him. The sermon also highlights the need for moral integrity and warns against casting aside moral landmarks in pursuit of worldly freedom. The preacher concludes by emphasizing that the promises in Isaiah 54 apply to both the church as a whole and to individuals, and that faith is the foundation needed for the days ahead.
(Christian Leadership) Lovers of the Truth
By Zac Poonen2.4K1:16:35JER 15:16MAT 5:33MAT 5:48MAT 23:16MAT 24:242TH 2:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is not written in a logical or mathematical way, but rather speaks to the heart. He shares an anecdote about preaching in a seminary where he was criticized for not following traditional preaching methods, but he argues that Jesus Himself did not adhere to those methods either. The speaker encourages listeners to turn to God for hope and transformation, emphasizing that God can take the mess of their lives and create something new and glorious. He also urges believers to love the truth and discern false teachings, and highlights the importance of being honest and avoiding seeking honor from others. The sermon concludes by contrasting the law given by Moses with the grace and truth brought by Jesus Christ.
Spiritual Avalanche: The Threat of False Teachings That Could Destroy Millions
By Steve Hill1.6K08:53JDG 17:6PRO 18:21MAT 24:24JHN 14:62CO 10:4EPH 6:122TI 2:152TI 4:3HEB 4:121PE 5:8This sermon warns about a spiritual avalanche of false teachings that is covering the body of Christ, likened to a dangerous snowfall on a majestic mountain. The vision reveals the need for spiritual vigilance and discernment as believers are being lulled into deception by modern teachings that challenge the foundational truths of Christ. The call is for spiritual leaders to take swift action, using the 'weapons of warfare' to combat heresy and preserve the solid, biblical truth that can save and strengthen believers.
Eight Ways of Deceiving Ourselves - Part 1
By Zac Poonen1.6K09:59MAT 24:242CO 11:32TH 2:9REV 12:9REV 20:2REV 20:7This sermon delves into the theme of deception as highlighted in 2 Corinthians 11 and Revelation, emphasizing how deception has been a tool of the enemy from the beginning with Eve and will continue until the end times. It explores the concept of self-deception and warns about the prevalence of deception even among believers, stressing the need for discernment and reliance on God's mercy to avoid falling into deception.
Christians Will Face Persecution
By Zac Poonen1.6K1:00:09MAT 5:6MAT 24:24MRK 10:29JHN 16:332TI 3:121JN 2:28REV 7:14This sermon emphasizes the importance of staying true to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles in the face of deception and diluted messages in Christianity. It warns against being misled by false prophets and the need to prioritize reading the Bible over other Christian literature. The speaker highlights the inevitability of persecution for those who desire to live godly lives in Christ, urging believers to persevere and stand firm in faith, even in the midst of tribulations and great trials.
False Prophets and the Broad Way - Part 1
By Zac Poonen1.5K09:47MAT 24:10MAT 24:242CO 11:131TI 4:12TI 3:12PE 2:11JN 2:181JN 4:11JN 4:6This sermon delves into the warning given by Jesus and the apostles about a great falling away before His second coming. It emphasizes the deception that will accompany this falling away, with false prophets leading many astray. The message highlights the need for discernment to distinguish between the genuine and the counterfeit, especially in the face of increasing lawlessness and a cooling of love towards God. The importance of holding onto true faith and avoiding those who only have a form of godliness without its power is underscored.
The Rise of Antichrist
By Scott Hynds1.5K35:37AntichristMAT 7:15MAT 24:24ROM 8:31EPH 4:142TH 2:32TI 2:151JN 4:1In this sermon, the apostle Paul is emphasizing the importance of using spiritual gifts and the teaching of God's word to mature in faith. He warns against being easily swayed by false doctrines, comparing it to the way lice crawl from one head to another. The preacher also mentions the presence of unseen creatures in our beds, highlighting the idea that just because something is hidden doesn't mean it's not present and active. The sermon then shifts to discussing the concept of the "man of sin," suggesting that it refers to a succession of people rather than one individual. The preacher urges the audience to stay alert and discerning, as there are those within the body of Christ who promote teachings aligned with Lucifer's heart. The sermon concludes with a call to action, encouraging believers to study the word of God and verify the message conveyed.
(February 1987) 04 - the Time of the End
By Ray Lowe1.4K1:15:46End TimesDAN 11:32DAN 11:37MAT 7:15MAT 24:24In this sermon, the preacher discusses the state of the world and how everything is spinning out of control. He compares the current system to that of the Roman Empire, highlighting the greed and selfishness that underlies it. The preacher emphasizes the need for change and mentions the increasing sin and homelessness in the nation. He also talks about the signs of the end times as described in the Bible and encourages the congregation to lift up their hands and heads in anticipation of their redemption. The preacher shares a personal experience of encountering someone who appeared to be Christ but was not, emphasizing the importance of discernment in these times.
The Lukewarm Will Be Deceived
By Andrew Strom1.2K45:20ISA 6:1MAT 7:21MAT 24:4MAT 24:241TI 4:1REV 3:16This sermon delves into the dangers of deception in the last days, emphasizing the prevalence of deception and the need to guard against it. It explores the characteristics of the Lukewarm Church, highlighting the importance of discernment, holiness, and true discipleship. The speaker warns against being lured into deception by false signs and wonders, stressing the significance of knowing and aligning with the character of God to avoid falling into lukewarmness and hidden sin.
Evangelizing the Western Mindset - Part 13
By Winkie Pratney1.2K59:04MAT 24:24EPH 6:12HEB 9:271PE 5:81JN 4:1REV 3:12This sermon delves into the new consciousness of the 1980s, exploring the shift towards a technological magic age and the blending of supernatural beliefs with materialistic views. It highlights the emergence of a space-age messiah concept in movies like E.T. and the societal hunger for heroes. The sermon emphasizes the need for Christians to embody a balance of revelation and practical service, marrying technology with spiritual insight to navigate and counter the prevailing spiritual trends.
The Delusion of Progress
By Horatius Bonar2True ProgressFalse TeachingsMAT 24:24JHN 3:3ROM 8:71CO 2:14GAL 1:6EPH 2:12TH 2:32TI 3:1JAS 1:171JN 2:18Horatius Bonar warns against the antichristian delusions that have existed since the days of the apostles, where false Christs arise to undermine the true Christ. He emphasizes that throughout history, these antichrists have distorted truth, promoting human intellect and goodness while dismissing the need for divine regeneration. Bonar argues that what humanity often perceives as progress is merely an illusion, as true progress can only be achieved through the Holy Spirit. He calls for discernment in recognizing the difference between worldly advancements and the spiritual growth that God acknowledges. Ultimately, he stresses that without regeneration, humanity cannot attain genuine progress.
Hold Fast
By J.C. Ryle2Holding Fast to TruthContending for the FaithPRO 19:27MAT 24:24ROM 12:2GAL 1:8EPH 6:111TH 5:212TI 4:2HEB 10:231PE 5:8JUD 1:3J.C. Ryle emphasizes the critical importance of holding fast to the truth of the Gospel amidst the challenges and controversies faced by the Church. He warns against the temptation to seek peace at the expense of truth, urging believers to contend earnestly for their faith and remain vigilant against false teachings. Ryle highlights the historical and ongoing threats to the integrity of the Church, particularly from Roman Catholicism, and calls for unity among Protestants to resist these challenges. He stresses that personal faith in Christ is essential, and encourages individuals to actively engage in preserving the truth of the Gospel. Ultimately, Ryle reassures that those who hold fast to Christ will find peace and eternal life, regardless of external circumstances.
Worship and the End Times
By Mike Bickle1MAT 6:10MAT 19:28MAT 24:6MAT 24:242TH 2:9REV 13:4REV 20:4REV 22:17Mike Bickle preaches about the great conflict between two opposing global worship movements at the end of the age, where Jesus and Satan's powers will be openly displayed. He emphasizes the importance of worship as a form of warfare that aligns the earth with God's will and prepares for the second coming of Jesus and the millennial kingdom. Bickle warns about the rise of a counterfeit worship movement led by the Antichrist that will deceive billions, contrasting it with the Holy Spirit's powerful end-time worship movement that will usher in God's kingdom.
Religious Apostasy
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0MAT 24:242TI 4:3REV 2:21REV 17:3Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the alarming rise of apostasy and departure from the fundamental truths of Christianity in various denominations, including the acceptance of Humanism, Human Divinity, and the mockery of solemn truths like the Bible, salvation, and the Passion of Christ. The sermon highlights the dangerous trends of incorporating worldly practices like dancing, entertainment, and idolatrous rituals into church activities, leading to a compromising and secularized form of Christianity. The mention of the Oberammergau passion play and the glorification of Anton Lang's portrayal of Christ as heart-breaking but not shocking reflects the distortion and misrepresentation of the true Gospel message.
Inward Apostasy
By Derek Melton0MAT 24:24COL 2:81TI 4:12TI 3:12TI 4:3JAS 4:42PE 2:11JN 4:1REV 2:4Derek Melton preaches on the urgent warning from the Holy Spirit in 1 Timothy 4:1 about the impending apostasy in the latter times, where many will depart from the faith and be seduced by false doctrines and materialistic blessings, leading to a dangerous shift away from scriptural truths and towards self-gratification. The church is cautioned against being deceived by doctrines that devalue the exaltation of God and prioritize temporal pleasures, ultimately leading to a form of godliness that denies the true power of God.
Homily 3 on Second Thessalonians
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 24:24MAT 25:61TH 3:42TH 1:92TH 2:3HEB 12:4John Chrysostom preaches about the eternal punishment awaiting those who do not know God and do not believe in the Gospel, emphasizing the severity of hell and the importance of not being deceived by false teachings. He warns against being shaken in faith by false prophecies claiming the imminent return of the Lord, highlighting the need for constant remembrance of God's teachings. Chrysostom also discusses the Antichrist, the man of sin, who will exalt himself against God, and urges the congregation to be vigilant and not easily deceived.
Israel's Inviolability - Truth or Myth?
By Reggie Kelly0JER 17:5MAT 24:241TH 5:32TH 2:9REV 13:7Reggie Kelly addresses the confusion surrounding the present state of Israel, highlighting the mistaken order of the modern return and the unbiblical optimism concerning Israel's future. He points out the dangerous belief in Israel's 'inviolability' held by key leaders in the Land, leading to a false sense of supernatural divine protection. Despite scriptural evidence indicating Israel will face Antichrist's fury, there is a widespread belief that obediently returning to the Land will provide safety, creating an astonishing deception fueled by emotional presuppositions and end-time complexities.
Cautionary Thoughts on the Revival Phenomena
By Art Katz0DiscernmentHolinessEXO 20:26ISA 52:11JER 29:13MAT 24:242CO 7:1EPH 4:151TH 5:212TH 2:91PE 4:71JN 4:1Art Katz addresses the complexities surrounding the current revival phenomena, expressing concern over the mixed reports of its authenticity and the potential for deception. He contrasts the present revival with historical movements like the Welsh Revival, emphasizing the need for discernment and caution against manifestations that may lack holiness. Katz warns that the Church's focus on experiences and benefits could lead to spiritual jeopardy, urging believers to seek genuine encounters with God rather than superficial sensations. He calls for a return to holiness and accountability within the Body of Christ, highlighting the dangers of being swayed by emotional and sensational experiences. Ultimately, Katz emphasizes the importance of testing all spirits and maintaining a reverent approach to God's presence.
Spirit Force vs. Psychic Force
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual Power vs. Psychic ForceDiscernmentMAT 24:24REV 13:2Watchman Nee emphasizes the distinction between spiritual power and psychic force, warning against the deceptive signs and wonders that may arise in the last days. He highlights the importance of discerning the source of power in ministry, advocating for reliance on the Holy Spirit rather than human abilities or soul power. Nee illustrates how many church practices, such as emotional revivals and music, can often stem from the soul rather than the spirit, leading to temporary effects rather than lasting spiritual growth. He calls believers to lay down their own strengths and talents, allowing God to work through them, as true power comes from the Spirit alone. Ultimately, he stresses that only the spirit can impart life, while the soul, despite being alive, cannot bring true transformation.
Day 251, Revelation 13
By David Servant0DAN 7:1MAT 24:24REV 13:2David Servant delves into the Book of Revelation, explaining the symbolism behind the first beast introduced to John, representing the antichrist who will rise to power through a ten-nation confederacy, with characteristics resembling those of Satan. He also discusses the second beast, known as the false prophet, who will lead a new religion of beast worshippers and deceive many with miraculous signs. The false prophet will compel people to worship an image of the first beast, possibly through advanced technology like interactive television, and enforce a mark on people's hands or foreheads as a symbol of allegiance to the beast, restricting their ability to buy or sell.
Rabbi Akiba's False Messiah
By Robert Wurtz II0MAT 24:24Robert Wurtz II delves into the significant impact of Rabbi Akiba Ben Joseph on modern Rabbinic Judaism and the Jewish people, emphasizing the negative influence he had by exalting the false Messiah Simon Bar Kochba, likened to the Antichrist, which led to the alienation of Jewish Christians and the establishment of a system that deceived many. Akiba's strategic actions aimed to seize authority, resulting in the persecution of Nazarenes and the loss of Israel as the land of God's people for centuries.
The Vision
By St. John of Kronstadt0MAT 24:241PE 4:12REV 2:10REV 13:16REV 21:4St. John of Kronstadt recounts a vivid vision he had in 1901, where he was visited by a starets who revealed to him significant events and symbols related to faith, martyrdom, heresy, and the end times. The vision included scenes of martyrs, fallen churches, the Antichrist, and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom. Through this vision, St. John emphasizes the importance of faithfulness, prayer, and staying true to the Orthodox Church amidst trials and tribulations.
Discerning the Signs of the Times - Part Two
By Ian Paisley0DAN 7:8MAT 24:242CO 6:14EPH 5:112TH 2:31TI 4:12PE 2:11JN 2:181JN 4:1REV 11:1Ian Paisley preaches about the potential dangers of the new European Union Constitution, highlighting the threat it poses to the liberties and democratic values that stemmed from the Reformation blessings. He warns of the looming establishment of a final world empire that will engulf nations and erode democracy, leading to an era of anarchy and bondage. Additionally, he addresses the deepening apostasy from the truth of the Bible, emphasizing the spread of false doctrines and the compromising stance of some churches towards sinful practices. Furthermore, Paisley delves into the development of the Antichrist system, drawing parallels between the teachings of Protestant Churches during the Reformation and the current state of the Roman Catholic Church, emphasizing the unchanging nature of Rome's doctrines and its pursuit of unity on its own terms.
Jesus Will Return to Earth
By Paul Bramsen0MAT 24:24MRK 13:24LUK 21:251TH 5:2REV 22:20Paul Bramsen preaches about the belief shared by Muslims and Christians in the return of Jesus to earth as a sign of God's judgement. The Bible vividly describes the signs and events that will precede Jesus' return, emphasizing the need for believers to actively anticipate and be prepared for that great day. Jesus himself teaches believers to live in readiness for his coming, as it will bring honor to the righteous and victory for the faithful, while signifying sorrow, judgement, and condemnation for the sinful. Recognizing Jesus upon his return requires knowing his character deeply to avoid being deceived by false prophets and imposters.
(New Wine in New Wineskins) 15. Another 'Jesus' and His Ministry
By Zac Poonen0DiscernmentTrue Nature of JesusMAT 7:1MAT 17:27MAT 24:24LUK 8:1LUK 13:31JHN 3:1ACT 8:182CO 11:41JN 4:1REV 1:13Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of discernment in recognizing the true nature of Jesus' ministry, contrasting it with a fabricated version that seeks validation from secular authorities and monetary support. He illustrates a scenario where a false 'Jesus' garners praise from political and religious leaders, highlighting the dangers of being swayed by appearances and signs. Poonen warns that the real Jesus does not seek sponsorship or financial gain, and true believers must test the spirits to avoid deception. He encourages the congregation to rely on the anointing within and the Word of God to discern truth from falsehood in today's world. Ultimately, he asserts that the genuine Jesus stands apart from any misleading representations that may arise.
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets,.... Such as the above mentioned: these false Christs had their false prophets, who endeavoured to persuade the people to believe them to be the Messiah, as Barcochab had Akiba, who applied many prophecies to him. This man was called Barcochab, which signifies the son of a star, in allusion to Num 24:17 he was crowned by the Jews, and proclaimed the Messiah by Akiba; upon which a Roman army was sent against him, and a place called Bitter was besieged, and taken, and he, and a prodigious number of Jews were destroyed. This deceiver was afterwards, by them, called Barcoziba, the son of a lie: and shall show great signs and wonders; make an appearance of doing them, though they really did them not: so that Jonathan, before mentioned, pretended to show signs and sights; and Barcochab made as if flame came out of his mouth; and many of the Jewish doctors in these times, and following, gave themselves up to sorcery, and the magic art; and are, many of them, often said (s) to be , "expert in wonders", or miracles: if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. By whom we are to understand, not the choicest believers, or the persevering Christians: not but that such who are truly converted, are choice believers in Christ, and persevering Christians are undoubtedly the elect of God; but then the reason why they are elect, and why they are so called, is not because they are converted, are choice believers, and persevering Christians; but, on the contrary, the reason why they are converted, become true believers, and persevere to the end, is, because they are elected; conversion, faith, and perseverance being not the causes or conditions, but the fruits and effects of election: besides to talk of the final seduction of a persevering Christian, is a contradiction in terms. Such an interpretation of the phrase must be absurd and impertinent; for who knows not that a persevering Christian cannot be finally and totally deceived? But by the elect are meant, a select number of particular persons of Adam's posterity, whom God, of his sovereign goodwill and pleasure, without respect to their faith, holiness, and good works, has chosen, in Christ, before the foundation of the world, both to grace and glory: and to deceive these finally and totally, is impossible, as is here suggested; not impossible, considering their own weakness, and the craftiness of deceivers, who, if left to themselves, and the power of such deception, and the working of Satan with all deceivableness of unrighteousness, might easily be seduced; but considering the purposes and promises of God concerning them, the provisions of his grace for them, the security of them in the hands of Christ, and their preservation by the mighty power of God, their final and total deception is not only difficult, but impossible. They may be, and are deceived before conversion; this is one part of their character whilst unregenerate, "foolish, disobedient, deceived", Tit 3:3 yea, they may be, and oftentimes are, deceived after conversion; but then this is in part only, and not totally; in some lesser, and not in the greater matters of faith; not so as to let go their hold of Christ their head, and quit the doctrine of salvation by him, or fall into damnable heresies: they may be seduced from the simplicity of the Gospel, but not finally; for they shall be recovered out of the snare of the devil, and not to be left to perish in such deceivings. This clause, as it expresses the power of deceivers, and the efficacy of Satan, so the influence and certainty of electing grace and the sure and firm perseverance of the saints, to the end, notwithstanding the cunning and craft of men and devils; for if these, with all their signs and wonders, could not deceive them, it may be pronounced impossible that they ever should be finally and totally deceived. (s) T. Bab. Meila, fol. 17. 2. Juchasin, fol. 20. 1, 2. & 42. 2. & 56. 2. & 77. 1. & 96. 2.