Prophecy and Promise: Devotions from Time of GraceSample

Your Enemy Is a Man of Lawlessness

When you need emergency medical attention, you don't have to worry about the competence of the doctors who attend you. In order to practice medicine in your state, doctors need to pass and maintain rigorous state board standards. You have no such government guarantees for church leaders though. And herein lies one last sobering heads-up about your enemies--they have infiltrated congregations and church organizations too. Our enemies are not only on the outside, but Satan's sinister agents are sabotaging the church’s work from the inside as well.

St. Paul described this "insider corruption" as a "man of lawlessness." "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" (2 Thessalonians 2:9,10).

Don't be surprised by acts of immorality among church leaders. Expect that some theological professors will abandon the truth and teach lies from hell. Anticipate that some ecclesiastical authorities will abuse people with their leadership and power. Hold fast to your Bible, trust God's words completely, and hang on tightly to the Savior whom you find there. And then you will be safe.