Text: Matthew 24:24
By: Ekaraghe, D. Isaac (Deacon)
Download Lesson
Introduction:
Our Lord and master Jesus Christ and many of the apostles of God in the New Testament have abundantly warned Christians about the imminent signs of the perilous times and end of this age. The devil and his agents are also intricated in their wiles to lure many Christians from the faith. Matthew 24:5, 1Pet 5:8. Undoubtedly, most of these predictions are presently unfolding and getting fulfilled even on a daily basis.
In the circumstances, Christians are strongly advised to beware of these signs of the perilous times and therefore make amends for any perceived or known shortcomings in their spiritual and physical endeavors. When this is done in a spirit of sober reflection and heart-felt penitence, Jesus Christ, who is the author and finisher of our faith shall surely guide us through the right path of salvation Hebrews 12:2
For a clearer understanding we shall approach and discuss this sermon in the following perspectives:
- Spiritual Perspective:
- Spirituality has to a great extent regrettably been eroded in Christendom. Denominationalism, inordinate quest for materialism, heresies/ false teachings, apostasy, religious intolerance, idolatry, willful commission of sin such as murder of the unborn through abortion among some young female Christians, fornication, adultery, kidnapping, fraudulent practices, ritualism for financial gains, departure from the true faith etc, have crept into the fabric of society and to a great extent, even in the Lord’s church. 1 Corinthians 1:10-13, Romans 16, 17-18, Matthew 7:15, 21-23, Matthew 15:8-9, 1Timothy 4:1-3, 2Tim 3:1-8, Gal 1:6-9; 5:19-21, Acts 20:29-30.
- Social Perspective: Moral decadence have unfortunately taken its toll on the world at large. Virtues have been unfortunately superseded by vices. Immorality, homosexuality, criminality such as ritualism, assassinations, kidnapping for ransom, fraudulent practices, prostitution, hostility in different parts of the globe, disobedience to parents and authorities, indecent dressings etc., all point to sign of the perilous time. 2 Timothy 3: 1-8, Galatians 5:19-21, 1 Cor. 6:9-10.
- In the education sector: Tertiary Institutions System of learning have been so bastardized to the extent that marks are sold or exchanged for money and intimacy (sex) by lecturers’ hand-outs or prescribed textbooks are considered insubordination and amount to failure in examinations. Lazy students from wealthy backgrounds no longer study for examinations but rather pay to get passed. And the authorities seem to do little or nothing to eliminate this ugly trend or phenomenon. As a result, we produce graduates who cannot defend their certificates at any given time. 2 Timothy 2:15. Aristotle once said, that ‘Education is bitter, but its fruit is sweet’.
- In the political scene. Political leaders have become increasingly insensitive to the plights of the governed to the extent that there is chronic hunger and poverty among the lower class of the economy. The crop of leaders we presently have are all self-seeking and nepotist in natures. Electioneering or campaign promises or manifestos are reneged upon winning elections. The sole aim of going into politics by most politicians is personal aggrandizement. Proverbs 29:2.
Panacea (way forward) for Christians:
With the perilous times staring at all Christians, the followings should be tactfully applied.
- Engaging in ceaseless prayers.
One of the tools Christians have to prepare for and overcome these perilous times is diligently and constantly engaging in fervent prayers to God because the scripture says that those who shall endure to the end, the same shall be saved. 1 Thessalonian 5:17, Matthew 24:13
- Resisting and forsaking false teachers/devil.
This is another tool by which Christians can have their ways by being wise as serpent and being harmless like a dove. James 4:7-8, 1Pet 5:8-9, Matt. 10:16.
- Not forsaking the assembly of the saints.
This is a forum where different advantageous spiritual messages are taught and a good and dedicated Christian can take advantage of same. Hebrews 10:25
- Make godly Christian companion
This is possible if you are determined to be good Christian without blemish. 1 Corinthians 15:33-34.
Conclusion
As you make your bed, so you lie on it. To be able to overcome the perilous time and be saved at the end of time, try to endure some level of hardship if it comes, and make yourself separate from the world. 2 Cor 6:14-16, John 15:19, 2 Tim. 2:3.
May the Lord abundantly bless you.
Download Lesson
