Prepare Your Spirit: A Call to Stand Firm in Christ Amid Rising Deception
"I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
—John 14:6 (KJV)
A startling reality is unfolding before our very eyes: direct opposition to Christ, His Word, and His followers is intensifying. A recent statement by a prominent rabbi captures the growing hostility toward the Gospel. He declared that the Christian Scriptures are "not divinely inspired," that Christian theology is based on "misinterpretation," and that much of it is "anti-Jewish."
We must not be surprised. Jesus foretold this opposition. The Apostle Paul, too, warned that perilous times would come (2 Timothy 3:1). As believers, we must be spiritually prepared — not with carnal weapons, but armed with the truth, grace, and endurance that only Christ supplies.
Christ Was Rejected — And So Will We Be
The Jewish leaders of Jesus’ day rejected Him as Messiah, fulfilling the prophetic words:
"He came unto his own, and his own received him not."
—John 1:11 (KJV)
This rejection did not thwart God's plan. Instead, through their rejection, salvation came to the Gentiles, as foretold in Isaiah 49:6.
Still today, many religious leaders deny Christ’s divinity and messiahship. Their words reflect an ancient enmity, one that Jesus warned about:
"The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you."
—John 15:20 (KJV)
Therefore, we must steel ourselves spiritually for what is coming — understanding that our faith in Christ will be increasingly tested, even by those who believe they are doing God's service (John 16:2).
The Coming Tribulation and the Role of the Church
The increasing hostility toward Christians is not merely political or cultural; it is deeply spiritual. Scripture foretells that in the last days, deception and persecution will escalate dramatically (2 Thessalonians 2:3).
This is why many hold to the blessed hope of the pre-tribulation rapture of the Church — the removal of believers before the wrath of God is poured out during the Great Tribulation. Jesus promised:
"Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth."
—Revelation 3:10 (KJV)
While debate persists among believers about the timing, one thing is certain: the true Church must be ready — spiritually, mentally, and emotionally — for whatever lies ahead.
Preparing for Spiritual Warfare
This is not merely a battle for land, influence, or survival. It is a war for souls.
Paul reminds us:
"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."
—Ephesians 6:12 (KJV)
Thus, our preparation must be spiritual:
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Know the Word of God for yourself.
"Study to shew thyself approved unto God." (2 Timothy 2:15, KJV) -
Put on the full armor of God.
(Ephesians 6:10–18) -
Be fervent in prayer and fasting.
Jesus said some spiritual battles can only be won by prayer and fasting (Mark 9:29). -
Preach repentance and salvation.
"Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out." (Acts 3:19, KJV) -
Walk in love, even toward enemies.
Jesus commanded us:"Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you."
—Matthew 5:44 (KJV)
A Warning and an Encouragement
The spiritual deception that is rising will cause many to stumble (Matthew 24:10–12). Many believers will be caught off-guard because they are spiritually malnourished, not rooted in the truth.
This is a sober time.
But it is also a hopeful time.
We serve the victorious King of Kings, and He has already overcome the world (John 16:33).
A Call to Repentance and Salvation
If you have drifted from Christ, today is the day to return.
If you have never truly surrendered your life to Him, today is the day of salvation.
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Recognize your sin.
"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23, KJV) -
Believe that Jesus died and rose for you.
"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8, KJV) -
Call upon Him in faith.
"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." (Romans 10:13, KJV)
Repent. Believe. Receive the gift of eternal life.
Final Charge
Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37).
Love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:39).
Cling to the Word.
Endure in prayer.
Shine as lights in a world that grows darker by the hour (Philippians 2:15).
He is coming soon.
Let us be found faithful.
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