Prayer
Briefly prepare your heart in silence, and ask the Holy Spirit to awaken your sense of anticipation that God is about to speak to you through His Word. Then, before you read, I invite you to pray this prayer based on Psalm 59:9-10.
Lord, You are my strength and I watch for you;
You are my fortress, my God on whom I can rely;
Go before me today, and lead me on Your narrow way.
Amen.
Reading
Today’s command from Jesus is simple, and Jesus says it twice:
“Do not believe it.” (v.23 & 26)
Both times Jesus said this, it was to warn his disciples against believing the claim that the Messiah has returned. He warned us clearly that “false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive”, but that we should not believe such “evidence” of the saviour’s coming. When Jesus Christ the Son of God returns it will be with such spectacular glory and power that every single human being, from east to west will know it (v.27); and then every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord! (Philippians 2:10-11),
It’s always important to bear Jesus’ warning in mind in other contexts too, though. There may be no accompanying claim about the messiah’s return, but we live in an age fascinated by “signs and wonders”. We need look no further than adverts promising signs and wonders at this or that crusade or service, or others promising healing or blessing in exchange for financial contributions, to realise how people who are desperate for the supernatural can be manipulated.
Jesus’ words are clear: “Do not believe it.”
Make no mistake, the LORD does still perform miracles and wonders today. However, Christian disciples should accept neither teachings, nor amazing spiritual experiences, nor even physical miracles at face value. We should always test them (and the teaching of those who minister them) against the truth of God’s Word. We need to be diligent in prayer, Bible study, and seeking the guidance and discernment of the Holy Spirit, Whom Jesus promised would lead us into all truth.
Contemplation
Please take time to ponder what Jesus has commanded us. Turn one or more of these declarations over and over in your mind. Keep them in mind throughout the day and live in step with Your King, Jesus.
As a disciple of Jesus Christ:
- I will not be gullible, I will be discerning.
- I will test all teachings and experiences against the Word of God
Holy Spirit, please lead me into all truth and protect me from falsehood today. Amen.
Dave's Diary 