How Strong is my Faith?

2 Thessalonians 2:9-11 (Great Deception)

“The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with how Satan works. He will use all sorts of displays of power through signs and wonders that serve the lie, and all the ways that wickedness deceives those who are perishing.

They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved.

For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie.”

How Important Are Questions Like “What Do I Believe?” or “How Strong Is My Faith?”

In today’s fast-paced society, where mainstream news and social media trends often shape our perceptions, questions such as “What do I believe?” and “How strong is my faith?” are more crucial than ever. For the Christian viewer, these questions should be part of a daily monologue. Yet, even the most devout find it challenging to avoid the distractions of pride, ego, and the deceitful allure of the flesh, all of which are constantly fueled and encouraged by modern culture.

The Bible warns that in the end times, there will be a great deception. The book of Revelation specifically addresses the troubles within the churches of those times through letters to seven ancient churches. These letters now serve as symbols of ideological subversion within the powers and institutions of modern-day ministries.

The Letter to the Seven Churches

1. Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7): Jesus commends the church for its hard work and perseverance but criticizes it for losing its first love. Modern context: This can symbolize churches that maintain doctrinal purity but have lost their passion for Christ and for loving others.

2. Smyrna (Revelation 2:8-11): Jesus praises the church for enduring suffering and poverty yet remaining spiritually rich. Modern context: This represents churches facing persecution or hardship but remaining faithful and steadfast.

3. Pergamum (Revelation 2:12-17): Jesus acknowledges the church’s loyalty but condemns it for allowing false teachings and immoral practices. Modern context: This can be seen in churches that tolerate false doctrines and moral compromise to appease society.

4. Thyatira (Revelation 2:18-29): Jesus praises the church for its deeds, love, faith, service, and perseverance but rebukes it for tolerating a prophetess leading people into immorality. Modern context: This highlights churches that may be active and loving but permit corrupt influences and practices.

5. Sardis (Revelation 3:1-6): Jesus criticizes the church for being spiritually dead despite having a reputation for being alive. Modern context: This symbolizes churches that have a good outward appearance but are spiritually lifeless.

6. Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7-13): Jesus commends the church for its faithfulness despite having little strength. Modern context: This represents small or struggling churches that remain faithful to Christ.

7. Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-22): Jesus rebukes the church for being lukewarm, neither hot nor cold. Modern context: This signifies churches that are indifferent, complacent, and self-sufficient, failing to recognize their spiritual poverty.

Modern Day Context

In our current society, these warnings resonate deeply. Many churches today struggle with maintaining doctrinal purity while showing genuine love and passion for Christ. The pressures of modern culture often lead to compromises that mirror the issues faced by the ancient churches.

Statistics on Moral Degradation

The last decade has seen a significant increase in natural disasters, violence, and crime rates. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the frequency and severity of natural disasters have escalated, with 2020 alone witnessing a record 22 weather and climate disasters in the United States, each causing over $1 billion in damages.

Violence and crime rates have also surged. The FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program highlights that violent crime in the U.S. increased by approximately 5.6% from 2019 to 2020. Moreover, the prison population continues to grow, with the U.S. having the highest incarceration rate globally, according to the World Prison Brief.

Debt levels have reached unprecedented heights. The Federal Reserve reports that household debt in the U.S. reached a record $14.6 trillion in 2021, driven by rising mortgage, auto loan, and student loan balances.

These statistics reflect a broader moral decline in society, where materialism, greed, and self-centeredness prevail.

The Rise of Satan Worship and Symbolism

In recent years, there has been an alarming rise in openly displayed Devil and Satan worship. Symbolism and subliminal propaganda are increasingly used to polarize society, creating divisions and distracting individuals from their faith. This is evident in various media, entertainment, and even political arenas where radical ideologies are promoted, often leading to further societal fragmentation.

In these times of moral degradation and societal upheaval, it is vital for Christians to regularly reflect on their beliefs and the strength of their faith. The letters to the seven churches in Revelation serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of remaining steadfast, discerning, and faithful amidst the trials and deceptions of modern society. By trusting in God and walking according to our calling, we can navigate the challenges of today and remain true to our faith.