The Spirit of Truth and the spirit of error ∙∙
Now the Holy Spirit makes it clear that in the last days, some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons.
– 1 Timothy 4:1
2 Timothy 3:1-4
1 You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times.
2 For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred.
3 They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good.
4 They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God.
The Power of Online Media Influencers
In the 21st century, online media influencers have emerged as some of the most influential voices in society. They inspire and guide the actions of others by sharing their opinions, expertise, and recommendations on social media platforms. Their extensive reach shapes trends, influences opinions, and even affects lifestyles.
The Ultimate Influencer of the Past
In stark contrast, one of the most profound influences on society throughout history has not been a singular figure, but rather a remarkable book, the Word of God. The Bible stands as a timeless Instruction Manual for Life, brimming with guidance and wisdom. It offers illuminating insights and answers to some of life’s most daunting questions, serving as a beacon of hope and clarity during turbulent times.
Why Do People Reject the Word of God?
Many individuals often dismiss the teachings of Scripture, primarily because of complex and seemingly insurmountable questions. For instance, they grapple with the profound dilemma of how a just and loving God can allow the existence of evil and suffering in a world. Additionally, they question how God can impose the exact, stringent expectations on all people when circumstances differ so drastically. These questions provoke deep reflection and, for many, lead to a growing skepticism.
These questions can lead people to reject not only the Word of God but also the God of the Word. Lifehopeandtruth.com poses a thought-provoking question: “Considering the stakes in this real-life game of life and death, shouldn’t we give the Instruction Manual a chance?”
A Blunt Answer from Scripture
The Father offers a clear and sobering explanation for this rejection through the words of the Lord Jesus Christ. He explains in John 8:47, “He who is of God hears the words of God; for this reason, you do not hear them because you are not of God.”
In simple terms, many people choose to disregard the Father’s Instruction Manual because they do not belong to Him. Their hearts do not align with His, which causes them to fail to hear and accept His words.
A World That Has Turned Away
In much of the Western world, the Word of God and God Himself have been largely disregarded. Society has embraced various influences, often prioritizing fleeting trends and worldly wisdom over eternal truth.
When the Bible is ignored, people miss out on the Father’s primary source of wisdom meant to help them navigate life’s complexities and prepare for eternity. Rejecting it means turning away from the wisdom and love of the One who created us.
REFLECT & PRAY
The game of life is not fair, and the Father never promised it would be. However, He has provided us with His Word as a guide, a source of strength, and a beacon of hope.
Father, encourage me to let You be my primary Influencer. Help me to reject the voices and influences of the enemy. Strengthen me to complete my assignments with integrity and endurance, always guided by Your Word.
INSIGHT
The Battle of Invisible Influencers
Behind the scenes of what we see, hear, or read through modern communication is a struggle between two powerful, unseen forces. These forces serve as “influencers,” inspiring, motivating, and guiding the actions of others.
- Evil influencers: These forces generate interest in destructive opinions and viewpoints, leading to actions that result in harm, violence, and chaos.
- Godly influencers: These forces direct people toward truth, love, and righteousness, helping them align with the will of the Father.
As 1 John 4:6 reminds us, “We are from God; he who knows God listens to us; he who is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.”
Godlessness: The Spirit of the Last Days
The Apostle Paul warned Timothy about the character of the last days in 2 Timothy 3:1, “You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days, there will be very difficult times.”
The Greek word translated as “difficult” is chalepos. Chalepos is used only twice in the New Testament. In Matthew 8:28, it describes the “vicious ferocity” of the demoniacs in the country of the Gadarenes. In 2 Timothy 3:1, it describes the “harsh, savage, and dangerous spirit of the age” that will characterize the last days. The last days will be so terrible that they are almost impossible to endure.
As William Barclay notes, “2 Timothy 3:1-4 is one of the most terrible pictures in the New Testament of what a godless world would be like, with the terrible qualities of godlessness set out in a ghastly list.”
The Rise of Evil Influencers
Are invisible spiritual forces preparing the way for the Antichrist? The signs of the times indicate a world increasingly shaped by self-centeredness and a lack of godliness.
The Age of Self-Love
In 2 Timothy 3:2, Paul describes a defining characteristic of the last days, “For people will love only themselves.”
The Greek term phílautos (from phílos, meaning “loving,” and autos, meaning “self”) conveys the idea of “self-centered love or self-importance.” It could be rendered as “self-lovers.” People will become “utterly self-centered” (Phillips), with “narcissistic egotism dominating their lives.”
Could this be a prophetic description of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) so prevalent in modern society? The rise of self-love, self-promotion, and self-obsession in today’s culture aligns with Paul’s warning about the spirit of the last days.
Lovers of God
In stark contrast to the self-lovers of self, the children of the King are called to be lovers of God. Paul uses the Greek term “philotheos,” which combines “phílos” (loving) and “theos” (God), to describe this orientation.
This term reflects the first and greatest commandment given by the Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 22:36-38, “You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.”
The children of the King are to prioritize the Father above all else, choosing to align their lives with His will and His loyal love.
The Truth Will Prevail
Despite the savage and godless nature of the last days, victory belongs to the children of the King. Evil may seem powerful, but it is ultimately fighting a losing battle. Barclay takes note of the Latin proverb, “Magna est veritas et praevalebit” (Great is the truth, and in the end, it will prevail). The children of the King merely have to remember the truth they already know and cling to it. The truth of God’s Word is unshakable and will prevail.
The Key to Victory
Even the children of the King are not immune to the influence of evil. Remember the truth you already know. Hold fast to it, no matter how dire the circumstances may seem. Be cautious of negative influencers. During these savage times, it is all too easy to follow the wrong stream of influence.
The battle between good and evil is a real one, and the stakes are high. Who or What Is Your Primary Influencer? Are you a lover of God, or have you been caught up in the self-centered spirit of the age?
¯\_(ツ)_/¯3-16-3
© Dr. H 2025
Dr H Reflections 