Offended and Betrayed
Offended and Betrayed
9 “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake.
Matthew 24:6
In verse 9 we see a double prophecy at work. When Christianity was first born, they were hated by both the Jews, as blasphemers, and Romans as troublemakers. Both groups brought Christians before the courts as seen several times in the book of Acts.
The same will be true as we reach the end of world’s story. In truth, Christians and believers have been brought before courts throughout its history. It will be intensified however towards the end, in the same way natural disasters have always been but have steadily grown in these last years.
10 And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. 11 Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many.
Matthew 24:10-11
Verses 10 and 11 show just how bad things will get. People will be betrayed which means that before these same people were those who were trusted. It won’t be strangers or people outside of your circle of trust that will betray you but your very friends and family. This will be a very painful time for God’s people. They will have to choose God over their loved ones who failed to create a real relationship with Jesus.
People will begin following the words and teachings of false prophets and teachers. The Bible will be put away as obsolete and outdated. People will follow the teachings that please their own beliefs. That is why our own personal study of the Bible is so important. With prayer and the Holy Spirit, we all can learn and know the will of God in our lives.
12 And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved.
Matthew 24:12-13
Love will slowly become cold. It’s important to realise that this love is godly love and not the false, fleeting love that the world offers. People will claim that the world is joining in love but it’s important to know which love they are speaking of.
The key word at the end here is ‘endures’. This word makes it very clear that it will not be an easy time for God’s people. They will have to endure and struggle during these times. May we all set our minds and lives for this coming trouble.
God bless,
Pr. Steven Couto