What is the meaning of Matthew 24:24? For • “For” links this warning to Jesus’ call in Matthew 24:23 to reject anyone claiming, “Here is the Christ.” • The Lord is giving the reason we must be alert: deception is certain, not hypothetical (cf. 2 Timothy 3:13; Revelation 12:9). false Christs and false prophets will appear • Jesus predicts real historical figures who will claim messianic or prophetic authority. • Acts 5:36-37 and 1 John 2:18 record early examples; Revelation 13:11-14 shows the pattern continuing till the end. • Scripture treats these claims as lies opposing the true Christ (John 5:43; 2 Peter 2:1). and perform great signs and wonders • The counterfeit will be impressive, not trivial. Pharaoh’s magicians (Exodus 7:11-12), Simon the sorcerer (Acts 8:9-11), and the future “man of lawlessness” (2 Thessalonians 2:9) illustrate satanic power that mimics divine miracles. • Signs alone never authenticate a message; truth must align with God’s Word (Deuteronomy 13:1-3). to deceive even the elect • The goal is spiritual sabotage: turning hearts from Christ (2 Corinthians 11:3-4). • “The elect” are genuine believers chosen by God (Ephesians 1:4). Their mention underscores how persuasive the deception will seem (Galatians 1:6-9). if that were possible • Jesus adds a comforting qualifier: ultimate deception of the elect cannot succeed (John 10:27-29; Philippians 1:6). • God’s preserving grace keeps His people, yet He warns them so they stay vigilant (1 Peter 5:8-10; Jude 24-25). summary Matthew 24:24 alerts believers that end-time (and present-time) deception will be powerful, persuasive, and religious in nature. False messiahs and prophets will use genuine supernatural displays to lure people away from the true Christ. While even the most mature saints could seem vulnerable, the Lord guarantees their ultimate safety. Our responsibility is constant discernment, testing every claim by the clear, sufficient Word of God. |
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