by[22] “For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. [23] So be on your guard; I have told you everything ahead of time.” – Mark 13:22-23 (NIV)
Have you visited or passed by a house where “Beware of dogs” is written on its wall? I used to see it quite often when I was a little boy who delighted in visiting my friends’ homes to play. But the moment I saw it on a friend’s house wall, I had to call my friend with a loud voice to come and open the gate before I could enter comfortably because I didn’t like how dogs behaved to strangers. What am I saying?
Jesus, citing what would happen in the last days, cautioned His disciples (and now, to us) that they should beware of false messiahs and false prophets. Jesus didn’t deny that such people would have enormous publicity and perform signs and wonders to deceive people, if possible, the elect (staunch Christians). So, from what Jesus said, signs and wonders are not to be used as a measuring tool or yardstick to figure out whether a ministry is authentic or not. Why? Because such things don’t save people. They are to follow those who believe (see Mark 16:17).
If you want to find out whether a ministry is good to stay at or bad to run away from, check the doctrine that is preached. If the doctrine doesn’t align with scripture, don’t stay there, or else your life will be adversely affected because doctrine is contagious. Labour to know God for yourself, lest you get deceived.
You are a blessing.
Prayer:
Father, help me to know You better, lest I get deceived by the vain works of false messiahs and prophets. In the name of Jesus. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD – 2026 – 058
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