'Like Lightning!' - Matthew 24:23-28

[Jesus continued:] "Then if anyone tells you, 'Look, here is the Messiah,' or 'There he is,' don't believe it. For false messiahs and false prophets will rise up and perform great signs and wonders so as to deceive, if possible, even God's chosen ones. See, I have warned you about this ahead of time.

"So if someone tells you, 'Look, the Messiah is out in the desert,' don't bother to go and look. Or, 'Look, he is hiding here,' don't believe it! For as the lightning flashes in the east and shines to the west, so it will be when the Son of Man comes. Just as the gathering of vultures shows there is a carcass nearby, so these signs indicate that the end is near."


—Matthew 24:23-28 NLT

Key Thought​

Pretenders and deceivers! In essence, that's what Jesus calls the false messiahs and false prophets. They are fakes, phonies, and liars.

When Jesus returns, he assures us that there won't be any doubt about it. Everyone will know, just as lightning can be seen on the horizon. His return will be with glory and power. This glorious day will not be hidden from anyone. Instead, it will be a day to glory in for all of God's people!

So we are not to lose heart as we wait for his return. We haven't missed the boat. He hasn't forgotten us. When he comes, we'll share in his victory!

Today's Prayer​

O Lord, please give me patience as I wait for Jesus' return and the vindication of your truth before all peoples. Please bless the efforts to win the lost of every nation so that they, too, can be prepared for that glorious day. Forgive me for the sins of doubt and impatience, and replace them with confidence and anticipation of the Lord's return. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings​

• 2 Corinthians 11:14-15
• 1 John 2:18-29
• Philippians 2:10-11

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Ⓒ 1996-2021 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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[csaaphill]

there is more to false prophets that what that is. The true meaning of that statement in scripture means something more than what most think when they read it.
Shepherds all say they are speaking truth and the Gospel but aren't. That's also being a false prophet. speaking and teaching claiming truth but what they're saying is, is the same and saying many false Christ's will arise, that's the bigger meaning behind that statement. Jim Jones that most people equate with that, but from what I know he never claimed to be Christ.
Not many have ever claimed to be Christ so that statement has to have a different meaning that just the literal. IF all you do is look at that statement and think someone is going to come and say they are Christ you will miss the boat! But look more at where it's said in scripture that my people are destroyed through lack of knowledge, why would that be said when we have all these preachers here in America? Scripture also says Shepherds will lead my people astray etc... That's what's more close to how that prophecy is fulfilled!

 

[Francess]

We are living in the last days before Jesus comes back to earth. We should be aware of the presence of false messiahs and false preachers and teachers. Let us all look at the Lords promises and the word of truth He gave it to us. No one knows the hour in which Jesus shall return earth again. I have decided to follow Jesus and believe every single word He said.

 

[The Encourager]

 

[Rizakar]

Joy unspeakable full of glory what a day that will be!!!!

 

[Alby]

There is a pleasure to know that everyone of us is aware of Jesus arrival soon to earth so, we must be prepared for that wonderful event that will happen anytime. All the signs the Lord mentioned in the bible is coming to pass. Praise the Lord.