One thing that really scares me about the end times…

There may be many who think they are living for Christ and think they are ready for the rapture, but they’ll be left behind. Are you sure you are ready?

There are so many things assaulting the church and Christians individually right now. Most of this world-message seems directed to increase acceptance or tolerance for other forms of living and it promotes the idea that there are other ways to heaven besides the narrow way Jesus prescribed. USA celebrity Oprah Winfrey even states that with a snarl as can be seen in the video. She preaches there are many paths to God; Jesus isn’t the only way (snarl). Just want to be sure you see that snarl. Part of the problem is she’s been hurt, but the bigger problem is she wants to be in control of her destiny—not by some babe in the manger belief. There are many more like her, and the numbers are increasing.

According to a recent Gallup poll, 78% of Americans identify themselves as Christian. Ok, we all know that this definition of Christian is a loose one based on the poll responder’s picture of what a Christian is. Often, people think if they believe in the existence of God, then they are Christian. The multiple Christian denominations of the United States, and the world, probably have particular terms for what defines a Christian, but, for crying out loud, where are those 78% when it comes to voting? Where are they when it comes to church attendances? Giving? And certainly if the 78% number were true, then the Wal-Mart parking lot would be a kinder, gentler locale.

For those like me who like looking at data, there is tons of it available through internet searches. You’ll get lots of different slants and approaches on the percentage of Christians and the interpretation of it. It looks like in the United States, Christianity is in decline, but it is increasing worldwide, and Islam is the fastest growing religion for sure.

Christianity is not popular. Although Jesus seemed to gain a great following where he had multitudes following him, where were they at the end? Did they follow Him all the way? At the end, Jesus was alone.

At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him. Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?” (John 6:66-67)

Success shouldn’t be measured only in numbers. Quality needs to be a measurement in considering if one is a Christian, and if one’s church is successful, it shouldn’t be considered so on numbers alone. Depth, character, service, are just parts of what should define true Christianity. This is why I’m scared—I don’t witness enough depth, character, or service compared to the numbers who claim to be Christian. 78%? Come on! Where are they? Living their lives the way they want—and please don’t offend them with your strict Christian beliefs!

Of course, all of this is a sign of the end times.

• Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition…(2 Thessalonians 2:1-3).
• Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons…(1Timothy 4:1).
• “The time is surely coming,” says the Sovereign Lord,
• “when I will send a famine on the land—
     not a famine of bread or water
        but of hearing the words of the Lord (Amos 8:11)

These scriptures reveal prophetically that in the last days, there will be a great falling away or rebellion from the church; some will depart from the faith, and there will be a famine where people will no longer hear the Word of God. Can you see it happening?

But even with that happening, the remnant who remains faithful, will witness His unfailing love, care, and provision—even miraculous provision. I leave with this…

Five of them were foolish, and five were wise (Matthew 25:2). That’s 50%, isn’t it?

PD