Signs of the End Times: A Disturbing Trend
A concerning and dangerous trend has emerged, often overlooked as a sign of the end times. Contrary to what some may think, the Bible doesn't predict that the world will entirely reject the existence of God in the end times by claiming He doesn't exist. Instead, it forewarns that the world will herald and worship the Antichrist as a god, thereby rejecting the true and living God.
Increasingly, I have observed and heard discussions not centered on denying God's existence. Instead, they focus on a more insidious form of rejection: the portrayal of God as evil. This shift in perception is particularly alarming because it aligns with biblical prophecies about the deception that will characterize the end times.
Calling Good Evil and Evil Good
The Bible specifically warns us about this inversion of morality. Isaiah 5:20 declares: "Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!" This verse is increasingly relevant today as we witness a world that distorts the truth, labeling what is good as evil and celebrating what is evil as good. This distortion isn't merely a societal trend but a sign of deeper spiritual decay.
The Rise of Scoffers
In addition to the moral inversion, the Bible also speaks of scoffers who will emerge in the last days. 2 Peter 3:3-4 cautions us: "Knowing this first: that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, and saying, Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation." These scoffers mock the truth of God’s word and dismiss the promise of His return, reflecting the widespread spiritual deception and moral decline of the end times. Their presence is a direct fulfillment of biblical prophecy and a clear sign of the times in which we live.
The Blasphemy and Unrepentance of Humanity
The book of Revelation provides sobering insights into the end times, particularly highlighting humanity's stubborn refusal to repent despite severe judgments. Revelation 9:20-21 states: "And the rest of mankind, who were not killed by these plagues, did not repent of the works of their hands nor give up worshiping demons and idols of gold and silver and bronze and stone and wood, which cannot see or hear or walk, nor did they repent of their murders or their sorceries or their sexual immorality or their thefts." This passage underscores the depth of humanity's rebellion and idolatry.
Furthermore, Revelation 16:9 reveals the hardened hearts of people in the face of divine judgment: "They were scorched by the fierce heat, and they cursed the name of God who had power over these plagues. They did not repent and give Him glory." Despite the clear evidence of God's power and the opportunity for repentance, people will persist in their blasphemy and defiance.
The Deception of the Antichrist
This trend of portraying God as malevolent and embracing evil prepares the way for the acceptance of the Antichrist. The Bible tells us that the Antichrist will position himself as a savior and god-like figure, deceiving many. 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 warns: "Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself against every so-called god or object of worship so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God."
This ultimate deception is facilitated by a world that has already embraced lies and rejected the truth. The groundwork is laid through the increasing portrayal of good as evil and evil as good, leading many to accept the Antichrist's false promises and reject the true God.
Our Response as Believers
As believers, we must be vigilant and discerning, recognizing these signs and standing firm in the truth of God's word. Ephesians 5:11-13 exhorts us: "Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible."
We must counter these false narratives with the light of the Gospel, affirming God's goodness, justice, and love, even as we navigate these challenging and deceptive times. We must uphold the truth of Scripture, live out our faith authentically, and share the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ with those around us.
In conclusion, the trend of calling good evil and evil good, the rise of scoffers, and the unrepentant blasphemy seen in the world today are all clear signs of the end times as foretold in the Bible. These developments should not cause us to despair but to remain steadfast in our faith, looking forward to the return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.