"Children, it is the last hour; and just as you heard that antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have appeared; from this we know that it is the last hour.

 

Dear friends:

There is so much to be learned in these verses. I barely scratch the surface when I write.   Every word is worthy to be pondered and applied.

 

The word "children" is John's word for his congregation. He is like a beloved father to them. Endearing and sincere is his heart attitude to teach and lead these dear people. Isn't this what each of us desire in a pastor/elder? He models it all over the pages of his Epistles.

 

The last hour gives thoughts to the end of things! Here John is addressing the flock with concern for their "today." Today is the hour to wake up and believe. Today is the day to honor God in your life and share His story to the world. (Romans 13:11) Being awake and spiritually discerning is "key" to Godly living! This church had a number of people infiltrating their holy sanctuary who were not on the up and up. They had an agenda that was not of God. (Galatians 2:20) As they were found out they would leave because their agenda was not part of God's plan for His church.

 

The warning for us in these verses is to be vigilant in the study and practice of God's Word. We need to be taught the truth of God's Word and then put flesh to it in the daily applications of our lives. This is what John is teaching. Having a keen ear and heart to rightly divide the Word and examine daily the intent of its use in the church and in our own lives. (What about people you listen to on TV, Radio? What's in the news that puts a question in your mind regarding true faith? What about books and movies that may cause those who are not strong to question their faith?) Be vigilant!

 

From Acts 20:29-30 we see that some will come in and speak in a way as to question the authenticity of God's Word. Red flags should go up when the Biblical truth is compromised in false notions, traditions and mandates that do not align up with the Word of God. Beware!

 

 

How might you identify a false prophet in the church today? Can you list a few?

 

What gives you proof of their false teachings? (Search the Scripture)

 

How can we be good keepers of the truth in our home?   Church?   Ministry?

 

FYI If you want to know what we believe here at Women in Discipleship just go to the doctrinal statement. It explains our stand for Him!

 

Blessings to you as you practice truthful living in the Way, the Truth and the Life, Jesus Christ.

 

Sandy Davis for the team