At last weekend’s Signs of the Times Conference in Prescott, we were treated to incredible messages by Mike Golay (As in the Days of Noah) and Pastor Barry Stagner (It’s About Time) before hearing from Pastor Jack Hibbs. His message, Living in the Daze of Deception, was based on his book by the same title. (Well worth the read if you haven’t already read it.)

Deception is rampant and our world is in a daze. Apathy has crept in and the enemy of our soul is having a hay day. Why is that happening? Many reasons…and Pastor Jack shared a few:

1. There is growing ignorance of Bible prophecy. If we don’t know what God has warned us of, we will live in perpetual deception. Sadly, false teachers abound. 2 Timothy 4:2-4 describes what a church should be like: preaching/teaching the Word in truth, regardless of how difficult it is to do. 1 Thessalonians 4:13 teaches us not to be ignorant (willfully uninformed). Did you know the root word of ignorant is closely associated with agnostic? Don’t be either!
2. There is an increase in global signs. Matthew 24:8 reminds us of birth pains that will occur as the day of Christ’s coming draws near. Prior verses point to wars and catastrophes. Certain nations vow to wipe Israel out. Global signs are everywhere and we are wise to take heed.
3. There is a rapid increase of hatred towards Israel and the Jewish people. Lies are birthed by evildoers then pressed out to the world via mainstream media. (Hint: contrary to popular belief, Israel is NOT causing famine in Gaza. Fact: they have shipped in enough food to feed every Palestinian for the next 2 years…and shops and cafes are open and doing lots of business.)
4. There is a rise in occultic activity. Matthew 24:1-6 warns of deception and cults deal in it! It is a sign of the times.
5. The spirit of the Laodicean church is evident in the world today. In addressing the Laodicean church (Revelation 3:14-22), Jesus says He stands at the door and knocks. Why is He outside the church?
6. We live in a leaderless world. Yes, we are fortunate to have a strong leader such as Donald Trump in the White House, but for the most part, the world is void of leadership. That certainly makes today’s world ripe for the next thing…..
7. The time is ripe for the rise of the antichrist. 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5 describes the coming of the man of sin who comes to deceive. The antichrist will be possessed by Satan himself, and will be accompanied by the false prophet. Satan, the antichrist and the false prophet are the unholy trinity. Don’t fall prey to them!

Scripture is filled with warnings against deception, and we are wise to heed those warnings. Don’t be deceived. Rather, stand strong on the Word of God.