“Paul warned that Antichrist’s
…coming is in accord with the activity of Satan, with all power and signs and false wonders, and with all deception of wickedness… (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10)
This puts in a very vulnerable position, those Christians who accept anything that seems to be miraculous, as coming from God.
Although miracles are important, we must beware of placing greater emphasis upon them than Scripture supports. Jesus Himself said of John the Baptist that there was no greater prophet born of women (Luke 7:28), and yet we are told that John “did no miracle” (John 10:41 KJV). And of Jesus it is said, though He did so many miracles, yet the Jews still did not believe on Him (John 12:37). The Bible does not teach that the great need today is for a miracle ministry, as is so heavily emphasized on much Christian television. Rather, it warns us that we need discernment to know the difference between what is of God and what is of Satan.”
(The Seduction of Christianity – Dave Hunt – emphasis added)
In Kingdom of the Occult, Walter Martin states another mindset that causes the unsuspecting to be snared:
“The modern age, with its wealth of occult material, is proof positive of this fascination. People on the lookout for something real no longer pause at the brink of satanic reality —they plunge into the depth of it, secure in their mantra: if it’s real, it’s right. People are enthralled by evil, and this false sense of security is the catalyst that propels them right over the edge of the abyss. Satan has always offered real experiences with evil spirits, and they are not only wrong but lethal to the soul. The only thing new about the power of the occult is its modern-day audience, a fresh hunting ground at the mercy of a seasoned hunter.”
These two godly brothers warn us about two wrong assumptions:
1. We should not believe that just because it seems to be miraculous, it is from God.
2. We should not believe that since some occult experience is or seems real, that it is right.
When Christ was asked about what would be the sign of His second coming and the end of the age, the first recorded words out of His mouth were
“See to it that no one misleads you, for many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ’ and will mislead many.”
He is saying that the end times will be characterized by deception. There will be many false “Saviors” or “Messiahs” deceiving the masses. They are here now.
They are all over the world as I type this post and they will increase in number as the end times draw nearer. Some are using false signs and wonders and occult miracles (demon empowered) to deceive people. Others are deceived by eastern mysticism or the New Age movement, thinking that they are a god, can become a god or can become one with the Universal Mind or Force. The media is keeping the door to sorcery wide open 24 x 7. It is calling out to your sons and daughters. And it is only going to get worse.
Therefore, be sure your heart is not going after signs and wonders or men. May your heart only go after the biblical Jesus and the truth of His word. May you be led and empowered by His Spirit. May He give you a spirit of discernment as you live in these wicked days. As Paul said
“Therefore, be careful how you walk, not as unwise men, but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil.”
Redeem the time.
Tell someone (about Jesus).
Carl
Psalm 119: 38 