Pastor Bob DuPar
October 14, 2008

Journal Entry



Scripture

Jeremiah 23:21-25:38; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17; Psalm 84:1-12; Proverbs 25:15

Observation

Jeremiah’s words in 23:25-26, 30-31, 32 are not only a condemnation of the prophets of his day, but they also ring true as a biting commentary of some contemporary pastors,

“I have heard what the prophets say who prophesy lies in My name. They say, ‘I had a dream! I had a dream!’ How long will this continue in the hearts of these lying prophets, who prophesy the delusions of their own minds? …Therefore, I am against the prophets who steal from one another words supposedly from Me. Yes, I am against the prophets who wag their own tongues and yet declare, ‘The Lord declares.’ …They do not benefit these people in the least,’ declares the Lord.”

“And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will overthrow with the breath of His mouth and destroy by the splendor of His coming.” 2 Thessalonians 2:8

“…they perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. For this reason God sends 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.” 2 Thessalonians 2:10b-12


Application

As we enter into the end times it’s increasingly important for us to spend time in God’s Word so that we will be able to distinguish between truth and error. As Paul says (2 Thessalonians 2:9), the “lawless one” (the antichrist) will perform “all kinds of counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders.” We live in a culture that seeks power, a touch of the miraculous (not unlike biblical times), and we need to be cautious that we don’t assume that someone is from God just because they perform extraordinary acts. Satan also gives power to his followers – power to deceive, confuse and destroy. And, God allows a “powerful delusion” to come upon those who refuse to believe the truth.

Prayer

“Lord, protect us from deception. May Your Word guide and guard our hearts and minds in Your truth.”