THE TRAP IS SET
There are literally hundreds of Bible verses which speak about the events of the “last days” on planet earth. Throughout history, this subject has often been written and talked about and I would like to focus attention on one particular theme that these Scriptures point to.
In many places the Bible reveals that one day a man will suddenly appear on the world stage who will be so charismatic that he will knock this world off their feet, overwhelming people with his wit and charm. The Word of God proclaims that this person will be highly intelligent and he will oppose the truths of God and speak against them.
I don’t think there can be any doubt that many in this world are ready for this man to appear. There is an obvious movement TODAY in our nation, away from God and the ancient truths that have been established in Scripture. And add to this, the fact that we are also living in a day when a multitude of problems are besieging this nation, and the world, such as terrorism, identity theft, rampant crime, economic chaos, horrendous natural disasters, etc., etc., etc.
Christians everywhere are trying to point this nation and world back to the Word of God, where I believe the answer and solution to all these problems lies. But the Bible also says that ONE DAY God will say, “OK, that’s enough,” and allow this world to completely run amok and turn away from Him. And when this happens, it will be a train wreck of epic proportions!
II Thessalonians 2 refers to this coming world leader as “the lawless one….who the Lord Jesus will overthrow with the breath of his mouth and destroy by the splendor of his coming.” But before Jesus returns to this earth and destroys this world leader and the system that he comes to set up, read a little more about this “lawless one.”
“The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with the work of Satan displayed in all kinds of counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders, and in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. For this reason God will send them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness.” (II Thessalonians 2:9-12)
The Scripture is not specific here about what kind of “delusion” this pertains to, but from many of the other Scriptures about the last days it is very probable that many people will be “deluded,” or fooled into placing their hope and trust in this evil world ruler because he will align himself with religion!
If a very charismatic, religious leader, who is a highly intelligent political tactician, appears on the world scene very soon, do you think he might be able to gain the support of many, many, many people? Are you sure YOU could not be tempted to believe in someone who is as attractive as a film star, or a talented musician, or someone who “appears” to be “holy” and “good” and seems to have all the answers that this world needs – even though he speaks against God’s Word? The Bible says that only those who are trusting in Jesus Christ will be able to resist such a powerful delusion. And one Scripture reveals that this trap may not be easy, even for Christians, to resist.
Matthew 24:24,25 -“For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect — if that were possible. See I have told you ahead of time.”
Of course, it is not possible that true Christians will be deceived, but it does show us just how powerful this deception will be. The point is, its time to get off the fence and into the arms of God.!
Probably many people who think that they are “good folks,” and this just doesn’t apply to them. But the Word of God is clear – the day is coming, and I believe it is very soon – that God will send this delusion to “those who refused to love the truth and so be saved.” So, along with everyone else, the thieves and murderers, rapists, and sexually immoral — those who THINK they are GOOD will also believe the lie and be condemned. Please read it yourself – that is what God’s Word says. (II Thessalonians 2:9-12)
But TODAY, right now, we can put our hope and faith and trust in the One who created ALL THINGS! And HE will save all those who put their hope in Him!!!
“Therefore he [Jesus] is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” Hebrews 7:25
One last word to all those who might scoff, and doubt. What I am saying is no more alarming than almost every other TV show which airs daily. You’ve seen them. ———-Doomsday Preppers, Evacuate Earth, It Could Happen Today, 13 Ways The World Could End Today, Survivors, Life After People, Revolution, Falling Skies, Walking Dead, and on and on and on—-
Sure, you could argue that these shows aren’t saying the same thing that the Bible says, but that is the point. Is your hope in the God of creation who promises to save you and give you eternal hope and life, or is it in the hopeless and nonsensical lies of this world which are promoted by Satan, the father of lies, and his demons. I Timothy 4:1 warns us, “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.”
I believe the trap is set. Exactly when this all happens, only God knows. But you can be ready. Your children, and friends, and neighbors CAN be ready! Call out to God in the name of Jesus Christ, today!
“Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink–even if you have no money! Come and take your choice of wine or milk—its all free! Why spend your money on food that does not give you strength? Why pay for food that does you no good? Listen, and I will tell you where to get food that is good for the soul! Come to me with your ears wide open. Listen, for the life of your soul is at stake. I am ready to make an everlasting covenant with you. I will give you all the mercies and unfailing love that I promised to David………Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. Let the people turn from their wicked deeds. Let them banish from their minds the very thought of doing wrong! Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them . Yes, turn to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” Isaiah 55:1-3,6,7 (New Living Translation)
