Introduction
The
State
of
Missouri
in
America
is
known
as
the
“Show
Me
State.”
Ronald
Regan,
the
40th
President
of
the
United
States,
often
said,
“Trust
but
verify!”
Both
Missouri’s
slogan
and
Ronald
Regan’s
cautious
approach
represent
our
human
tendency
to
be
skeptical,
and
to
not
place
our
complete
trust
in
what
we
see and hear until we have proof that what was declared or promised is true.
It’s
important
to
note
that
our
God
designed
attribute
of
skepticism
is
a
good
thing
because
it
can
help
us
avoid
harm.
Without
skepticism
we
would
believe
everything
we
are
told—including
lies.
As
such,
throughout
time,
God
has
used
various
signs
and
wonders
to
overcome
our
skeptical
nature.
Akin
to
a
“Certificate
of
Authenticity,”
signs
and
wo
nders
may
be
defined
as
miraculous
manifestations
of
supernatural activity that are intended to:
•
Provide tangible evidence that confirms:
o
Spiritual authority.
o
Truth of what was spoken.
•
Magnify belief in whom is glorified.
Many
of
us
do
not
fully
recognize
the
multitude
of
signs
and
wonders
God
has
demonstrated
throughout
time—all
with
the
intent
of
facilitating
our
belief
in
Him.
However,
during
the
last
days,
in
Matthew
24:24,
Jesus
warned,
“False
christs
and
false
prophets
will
rise
and
show
great
signs
and
wonders
to
deceive,
if
possible,
even
the
elect.”
To
separate
the
wheat
from
the
tares
(discussed
later),
God
will
allow
Satan
and
his
minions
to
perform
great
signs
and
wonders
that
will
facilitate
belief
in
the
beast.
As
such,
Jesus’s
warning
declares
our
need
for
spiritual
discernment
during
these
dark
times.
Therefore,
to
fully
understand
the
deceptive
power
of
Satan’s
miracles,
this
lesson
will
begin
by
discussing
the
miracles
God
demonstrated
through
Moses,
Jesus,
and
the
disciples.
Thereafter
the
lesson
will
explain
how
to
identify and discern Satan’s deceptive signs and wonders by false christs and by false prophets.
God’s Signs and Wonders
Moses
In
Exodus
chapters
3
and
4,
God
revealed
Himself
and
spoke
to
Moses
from
the
midst
of
a
burning
bush
that
was
not
consumed
by
the
fire
(a
sign
and
wonder).
This
is
when
God
declared
His
identity,
and
His
intent to free the Jews from Pharaoh’s bondage through Moses.
Our
disbelief
and
skeptical
nature
was
exemplified
by
Moses
when
he
expressed
his
fear
in
confronting
Pharaoh.
God
then
gave
Moses
manifestations
of
supernatural
power
(in
various
forms)
to
provide
tangible
evidence
to
Pharaoh
that
the
words
spoken
by
Moses
are
divinely
true.
Exodus
4:21
states,
“And
the
Lord
said
to
Moses,
‘When
you
go
back
to
Egypt,
see
that
you
do
all
those
wonders
before
Pharaoh
which
I
have
put
in
your
hand.
But
I
will
harden
his
heart,
so
that
he
will
not
let
the
people
go.’”
Because
Pharaoh’s
heart
was
hardened,
the
miracles
become
progressively
worse.
Listed
in
order
(Exodus chapters 4-11), the signs and wonders God demonstrated to Pharoah (via Moses) included:
•
The staff of Aaron (the brother of Moses) became a serpent when cast to the ground.
•
Turned all life-sustaining water in Egypt into blood—making it undrinkable.
•
3 separate plagues: frogs, lice, flies.
•
Death of livestock via pestilence.
•
4 additional plagues: boils, hail, locusts and darkness.
•
Death of firstborn.
What’s
interesting
is
that
Satan
(via
Pharaoh’s
magicians)
was
able
to
replicate
the
first
three
miracles
demonstrated
by
Moses
to
Pharoah.
For
example,
the
magicians
were
able
to
turn
their
own
staffs
into
snakes.
However,
Aaron’s
snake
ate
the
magician’s
snakes
(Exodus
7:8-13).
They
were
also
able
to
mimic
the
plague
of
blood
(Exodus
7:14-22),
and
horde
of
frogs
(Exodus
8:1-7).
However,
Pharoah’s
magicians were unable to replicate the remaining signs and wonders demonstrated by Moses.
The
last
sign
and
wonder
by
Moses
broke
the
will
of
Pharoah:
God
caused
the
death
of
all
firstborn.
While
there
is
some
disagreement
if
the
firstborn
included
males
and
females,
the
common
belief
is
that
firstborn males died from the plague.
But
as
a
sign
and
wonder
to
the
Hebrews,
God
told
Moses
and
Aaron
to
instruct
the
Hebrews
to
take
the
blood
of
a
sacrificed
unblemished
male
lamb
and
put
it
on
the
left
and
right
doorpost,
and
on
the
top
of
the door frame (Exodus 12:1-11).
“For
I
will
pass
through
the
land
of
Egypt
on
that
night,
and
will
strike
all
the
firstborn
in
the
land
of
Egypt,
both
man
and
beast;
and
against
all
the
gods
of
Egypt
I
will
execute
judgment:
I
am
the
Lord.
Now
the
blood
shall
be
a
sign
for
you
on
the
houses
where
you
are.
And
when
I
see
the
blood,
I
will
pass
over
you; and the plague shall not be on you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt.” Exodus 12:12-13
Referred
to
as
the
Lord’s
Passover
(or
Pesach
in
Hebrew),
this
miraculous
act
of
God
is
celebrated
by
the Israelites today during an annual weeklong celebration.
Once
free
from
Pharoah’s
bondage,
God
demonstrated
additional
miracles
through
Moses
to
convince
the
Hebrews
that
the
words
spoken
by
Moses
are
divinely
true.
Some
of
these
manifestations
(Exodus
chapters
14,
15,
17)
included
parting
of
the
Red
Sea
(to
provide
a
secure
escape
from
Pharoah).
God
also
provided
food
(Exodus
16:15)
for
the
Hebrews.
Manna
miraculously
appeared
with
the
dew
each
morning—thereby
providing
their
daily
sustenance.
In
addition,
to
quench
the
thirst
of
the
parched
in
the
desert,
Moses
miraculously
converted
bitter
waters
into
sweet,
and
released
water
from
a
rock.
But
what’s
more,
God
guided
the
Hebrews
through
the
desert
by
a
pillar
of
cloud
during
the
day,
and
a
pillar
of fire by night (Exodus 13:21-22). God’s miracles were intended to increase their belief and trust in Him.
Jesus
Jesus
described
our
weaknesses
and
need
for
tangible
proofs—which
explains
why
God
has
demonstrated miracles—and why Satan will be given power to perform last day signs and wonders.
•
“A
wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign.” Matthew 16:4
•
“Unless
you people see signs and wonders, you will by no means believe.” John 4:48
Therefore, Jesus demonstrated many miracles as confirmation of His messianic authority, such as:
•
Turning water into wine. John 2:1-12
•
Healing a nobleman’s son. John 4:46-54
•
Healing a paralytic man at the Pool of Bethesda. John 5:1-11
•
Feeding thousands. Matthew 14:15-21, 15:32-39
•
Walking on water. John 6:16-21
•
Healing a blind man. John 9:1-12
•
Raising Lazarus from the dead. John 11
In
response
to
angry
Jews
who
rejected
His
words
and
sought
to
stone
Him,
Jesus
pointed
to
His
signs
and
wonders
(His
works)
as
validation
of
who
He
is
when
He
said
to
them,
“Believe
the
works,
that
you
may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I in Him.” John 10:38
Jesus
demonstrated
additional
signs
and
wonders
that
reinforces
His
promise
of
eternal
life
to
those
who
believe
in
Him.
After
Jesus
rose
from
the
dead
He
was
first
seen
by
Mary
Magdalene,
Peter,
2
disciples,
the Apostles, and more than 500 brethren at once. (1 Corinthians 15:6-8).
Thomas,
one
of
the
twelve
Apostles,
did
not
believe
Jesus
was
raised
from
the
dead
after
His
crucifixion.
Thomas
said,
“Unless
I
see
in
His
hands
the
print
of
the
nails,
and
put
my
finger
into
the
print
of
the
nails,
and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.” John 20:25
Before
Jesus
ascended
to
the
right
hand
of
God,
He
stood
in
the
midst
of
them
and
said
to
Thomas,
“Reach
your
finger
here,
and
look
at
My
hands;
and
reach
your
hand
here,
and
put
it
into
My
side.
Do
not be unbelieving, but believing.” John 20:27
Note
the
core
purpose
of
His
signs
and
wonders
when
He
spoke
to
the
angry
Jews
and
Thomas:
BELIEVE!
Disciples
Jesus
imparted
power
to
His
disciples
to
perform
miracles
while
He
was
alive,
and
after
he
died
and
sat
at the right hand of God in Heaven.
In
Matthew
10:5-8,
Jesus
sent
His
12
apostles
to
preach
to
the
house
of
Israel.
He
instructed
them
to
declare,
“The
kingdom
of
heaven
is
at
hand.”
But
before
He
sent
them,
Jesus
gave
them
power
to
perform
signs
and
wonders.
In
Matthew
10:1,
Jesus
“Gave
them
power
over
unclean
spirits,
to
cast
them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease.”
Imagine
how
the
Israelites
would
have
responded
to
His
disciples
if
they
were
not
given
power
to
cast
out
demons
and
heal
sicknesses.
Their
declared
words
would
have
been
perceived
as
blasphemous
and
insane.
However,
divine
miracles
provided
a
“certificate
of
authenticity”
that
requires
attention,
analysis
of
what
was
said,
and
a
decision
in
how
to
respond
to
the
claims
that
were
declared.
This
is
why the false christs and false prophets will have the power to deceive via signs and wonders.
After Jesus died and ascended, He continued to perform miracles through His disciples.
“So
then,
after
the
Lord
had
spoken
to
them,
He
was
received
up
into
heaven,
and
sat
down
at
the
right
hand
of
God.
And
they
went
out
and
preached
everywhere,
the
Lord
working
with
them
and
confirming
the word through the accompanying signs.” Mark 16:19-20
"And
through
the
hands
of
the
apostles
many
signs
and
wonders
were
done
among
the
people.
And
they
were
all
with
one
accord
in
Solomon’s
Porch.
Yet
none
of
the
rest
dared
join
them,
but
the
people
esteemed
them
highly.
And
believers
were
increasingly
added
to
the
Lord,
multitudes
of
both
men
and
women,
so
that
they
brought
the
sick
out
into
the
streets
and
laid
them
on
beds
and
couches,
that
at
least
the
shadow
of
Peter
passing
by
might
fall
on
some
of
them.
Also
a
multitude
gathered
from
the
surrounding
cities
to
Jerusalem,
bringing
sick
people
and
those
who
were
tormented
by
unclean
spirits,
and they were all healed.” Acts 5:12-16
Satan’s Deceptive Signs and Wonders
When
asked
what
will
occur
during
the
last
days,
in
Matthew
chapter
24,
Jesus
described
many
last
day
signs.
However,
He
added
a
specific
indicator
of
unprecedented
deception
in
verse
24:
“False
christs
and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.”
Throughout
time
God
has
used
signs
and
wonders
as
a
means
to
confirm
His
authority,
His
truth,
and
to
magnify
belief
in
Him.
However,
during
the
last
days
God
will
allow
Satan
and
his
minions
to
use
signs
and
wonders
to
deceive
and
separate
those
who
will
spend
eternity
in
the
lake
of
fire.
These
miracles
will
not
be
simple
magic
tricks.
But
rather,
as
Jesus
said,
“…
great
signs
and
wonders
to
deceive,
if
possible,
even
the
elect.”
To
reinforce
the
strong
deceptive
power
of
these
great
signs
and
wonders,
Jesus
adds
to
His
warning
that
these
miracles
will
be
so
compelling—if
it
was
possible—they
could
even
deceive
God’s
chosen.
Visualize
video
images
of
these
unprecedented
miracles—each
broadcasted
numerous
times
across
every
conceivable
communication
medium
across
the
globe—as
the
multitudes
are
deceived
into
believing
what
was
declared
is
true.
However,
Jesus
also
said,
“My
sheep
hear
My
voice,
and
I
know
them,
and
they
follow
Me.
And
I
give
them
eternal
life,
and
they
shall
never
perish;
neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.” John 10:27-28
Why Would God Allow Deceptional Signs and Wonders During the Last Days?
Jesus
gave
us
spiritual
insight
into
the
purpose
last
day
deception.
The
Parable
of
the
Wheat
and
Tares
describes the final harvest via the separation of the wheat from the tares (weeds that look like wheat).
“The
kingdom
of
heaven
is
like
a
man
who
sowed
good
seed
in
his
field;
but
while
men
slept,
his
enemy
came
and
sowed
tares
among
the
wheat
and
went
his
way.
But
when
the
grain
had
sprouted
and
produced
a
crop,
then
the
tares
also
appeared.
So
the
servants
of
the
owner
came
and
said
to
him,
‘Sir,
did
you
not
sow
good
seed
in
your
field?
How
then
does
it
have
tares?’
He
said
to
them,
‘An
enemy
has
done
this.’
The
servants
said
to
him,
‘Do
you
want
us
then
to
go
and
gather
them
up?’
But
he
said,
‘No,
lest
while
you
gather
up
the
tares
you
also
uproot
the
wheat
with
them.
Let
both
grow
together
until
the
harvest,
and
at
the
time
of
harvest
I
will
say
to
the
reapers,
First
gather
together
the
tares
and
bind
them
in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn.’”
Matthew 13:24-30
“And
His
disciples
came
to
Him,
saying,
‘Explain
to
us
the
parable
of
the
tares
of
the
field.’
He
answered
and
said
to
them:
‘He
who
sows
the
good
seed
is
the
Son
of
Man.
The
field
is
the
world,
the
good
seeds
are
the
sons
of
the
kingdom,
but
the
tares
are
the
sons
of
the
wicked
one.
The
enemy
who
sowed
them
is
the
devil,
the
harvest
is
the
end
of
the
age,
and
the
reapers
are
the
angels.
Therefore
as
the
tares
are
gathered
and
burned
in
the
fire,
so
it
will
be
at
the
end
of
this
age.
The
Son
of
Man
will
send
out
His
angels,
and
they
will
gather
out
of
His
kingdom
all
things
that
offend,
and
those
who
practice
lawlessness,
and
will
cast
them
into
the
furnace
of
fire.
There
will
be
wailing
and
gnashing
of
teeth.
Then
the
righteous
will
shine
forth
as
the
sun
in
the
kingdom
of
their
Father.
He
who
has
ears
to
hear,
let
him hear!’” Matthew 13:37-43
“The
coming
of
the
lawless
one
is
according
to
the
working
of
Satan,
with
all
power,
signs,
and
lying
wonders,
and
with
all
unrighteous
deception
among
those
who
perish,
because
they
did
not
receive
the
love
of
the
truth,
that
they
might
be
saved.
And
for
this
reason
God
will
send
them
strong
delusion,
that
they
should
believe
the
lie,
that
they
all
may
be
condemned
who
did
not
believe
the
truth
but
had
pleasure in unrighteousness.” 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12
False Christs
As
darkness
overcomes
light
during
the
last
days,
consider
the
hope
in
the
return
of
Jesus
by
those
who
are
living
at
this
time.
Consider
their
challenges
in
sharing
the
Gospel
of
Christ—and
the
truth
of
His
imminent
return—with
those
who
are
lost.
Meanwhile,
the
activities
of
evil
entities
will
seek
to
diminish
and dilute the Gospel’s influence as many will declare they are the returned Jesus Christ. Jesus warned:
•
“Many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many.
Matthew 24:5
•
“
Therefore
if
they
say
to
you,
‘Look,
He
is
in
the
desert!’
do
not
go
out;
or
‘Look,
He
is
in
the
inner
rooms!’
do
not
believe
it.
For
as
the
lightning
comes
from
the
east
and
flashes
to
the
west,
so
also
will the coming of the Son of Man be.” Matthew 24:26
Three
types
of
responses
to
false
christs
will
occur.
(1)
Those
who
believe
in
what
they
declare
are
deceived
and
doomed.
(2)
Others
(who
are
also
deceived
and
doomed)
will
consider
them
delusional
and
subject
to
public
ridicule—thereby
providing
additional
justification
to
reject
their
faith
in
Christ,
and
dismiss Christian warnings. (3) Christians will realize they are witnessing fulfilled prophecy.
False Prophets
Jesus said,
“Many false prophets will rise up and deceive many.” Matthew 24:11
A
prophet
is
defined
as
a
person
who
is
regarded
as
an
inspired
teacher
or
proclaimer
of
the
will
of
God;
one
who
speaks
divinely
inspired
revelations.
A
false
prophet
is
one
who
professes
to
be
inspired,
who
claims to possess a new revelation, and will lead hearers into false doctrine.
Demonic
entities
will
cause
persons
(who
will
make
prophetic
declarations)
to
spread
deceptive
lies.
These
persons
will
be
in
the
“public
eye”
and
will
receive
media
attention.
Their
words
and
actions
will
not
be
based
upon
God’s
grace
and
truth,
but
will
be
intended
to
cause
greater
division
between
the
saved
and
non-saved.
As
such,
their
words
and
behavior
will
throw
fuel
onto
the
fire
of
anger
within
the
hearts
of
those
who
follow
the
beast.
These
false
prophets
will
provide
justification
for
increased
oppression—and
even
execution—of
Christians
who
believe
in
and
follow
Jesus
Christ.
But
what’s
more,
this
Satan-inspired
hatred
will
be
exponentially
magnified
by
the
beast
when
he
declares
Christians stand in the way of his plans to “fix” all that is wrong in the world.
As
the
days
become
increasingly
dark,
Christians
will
explain
the
gospel
to
anyone
who
will
listen,
and
will
declare
Jesus
is
coming
soon.
However,
Jesus
said
regarding
these
times,
“For
there
will
be
great
tribulation,
such
as
not
been
since
the
beginning
of
the
world
until
this
time,
no,
nor
shall
ever
be.”
Matthew 24:21
“Then
I
saw
the
souls
of
those
who
had
been
beheaded
for
their
witness
to
Jesus
and
for
the
word
of
God,
who
had
not
worshiped
the
beast
or
his
image,
and
had
not
received
his
mark
on
their
foreheads
or
on their hands.” Revelation 20:4
Take
a
moment
and
consider
the
degree
of
transitional
darkness
that
will
occur
to
reach
the
depths
of
this
unimaginable
human
depravity.
But
in
truth,
it
was
not
long
ago
that
millions
of
Jews
were
murdered
based
upon
the
same
lies
and
justifications—for
the
same
evil
spirits
that
influenced
Hitler
and
the
Nazis—will also drive the behavior of the beast and his followers.
Indicators of a False Christ and False Prophet
Satan
is
a
masterful
liar.
Jesus
declared,
“
There
is
no
truth
in
him.
When
he
speaks
a
lie,
he
speaks
from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.” John 8:44
Skilled
liars
will
use
a
little
truth
within
their
lie.
Skilled
liars
know
a
little
truth
(1)
grabs
attention,
(2)
breaks
through
protective
mental
barriers,
(3)
gains
entry
into
their
mindset,
(4)
enables
insertion
of
the
lie
into
the
thought
process
so
that
it
takes
hold
and
germinates,
and
(5)
skilled
liars
will
repeat
the
lie
until it becomes truth in the minds of the deceived.
It
is
possible
the
false
christs
and
false
prophets
will
“package”
their
deceptive
lies
with
a
“holy
portrayal”
and
scriptural
references—lies
that
are
reinforced
as
being
true
as
they
perform
great
signs
and
wonders.
Meanwhile,
the
“germination
of
the
lie”
continues
to
take
root
within
the
masses
as
they
use
flawed
rationalization
to
justify
their
belief
in
and
compliance
with
what
was
said—because
what
they
just
witnessed is unexplainable and uncommon to man—and therefore must be true!
God
is
allowing
the
final
separation
of
the
wheat
from
the
tares
for
the
harvest.
“And
for
this
reason
God
will
send
them
strong
delusion,
that
they
should
believe
the
lie,
that
they
all
may
be
condemned
who
did
not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12
There are three primary means to identify if someone’s declaration is from Jesus or Satan:
1
.
Are their declarations based upon God’s word?
2
.
What is their Persona?
3
.
Who is glorified?
God’s Word
It is imperative for every Christian to study and internalize Bible scripture to prepare for the last days.
“Therefore
whoever
hears
these
sayings
of
Mine,
and
does
them,
I
will
liken
him
to
a
wise
man
who
built
his
house
on
the
rock:
and
the
rain
descended,
the
floods
came,
and
the
winds
blew
and
beat
on
that
house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. Matthew 7:24-25
For
example,
Jesus
was
very
specific
regarding
false
christs
in
Matthew
24:26.
He
instructed
us
to
not
seek
nor
believe
anyone
who
declares
they
are
the
Christ.
What’s
more,
Jesus
declared
how
He
will
return
to
destroy
the
beast
and
his
armies
during
the
battle
of
Armageddon:
“As
lightning
comes
from
the
east and flashes to the west.”
“Therefore
if
they
say
to
you,
‘Look,
He
is
in
the
desert!’
do
not
go
out;
or
‘Look,
He
is
in
the
inner
rooms!’
do
not
believe
it.
For
as
the
lightning
comes
from
the
east
and
flashes
to
the
west,
so
also
will
the
coming of the Son of Man be.” Matthew 24:26
The
above
and
following
scripture
depicts
the
return
of
Jesus,
and
what
He
(and
His
armies)
will
do
upon
His return—which provides scriptural truth that dispels the lies of someone declaring they are Christ.
“Now
I
saw
heaven
opened,
and
behold,
a
white
horse.
And
He
who
sat
on
him
was
called
Faithful
and
True,
and
in
righteousness
He
judges
and
makes
war.
His
eyes
were
like
a
flame
of
fire,
and
on
His
head
were
many
crowns.
He
had
a
name
written
that
no
one
knew
except
Himself.
He
was
clothed
with
a
robe
dipped
in
blood,
and
His
name
is
called
The
Word
of
God.
And
the
armies
in
heaven,
clothed
in
fine
linen,
white
and
clean,
followed
Him
on
white
horses.
Now
out
of
His
mouth
goes
a
sharp
sword,
that
with
it
He
should
strike
the
nations.
And
He
Himself
will
rule
them
with
a
rod
of
iron.
He
Himself
treads
the
winepress
of
the
fierceness
and
wrath
of
Almighty
God.
And
He
has
on
His
robe
and
on
His
thigh
a
name
written:
KING
OF
KINGS
AND
LORD
OF
LORDS.
Then
I
saw
an
angel
standing
in
the
sun;
and
he
cried
with
a
loud
voice,
saying
to
all
the
birds
that
fly
in
the
midst
of
heaven,
‘Come
and
gather
together
for
the
supper
of
the
great
God,
that
you
may
eat
the
flesh
of
kings,
the
flesh
of
captains,
the
flesh
of
mighty
men,
the
flesh
of
horses
and
of
those
who
sit
on
them,
and
the
flesh
of
all
people,
free
and
slave,
both
small
and
great.’
And
I
saw
the
beast,
the
kings
of
the
earth,
and
their
armies,
gathered
together
to
make
war
against
Him
who
sat
on
the
horse
and
against
His
army.
Then
the
beast
was
captured,
and
with
him
the
false
prophet
who
worked
signs
in
his
presence,
by
which
he
deceived
those
who
received
the
mark
of
the
beast
and
those
who
worshiped
his
image.
These
two
were
cast
alive
into
the
lake
of
fire
burning
with
brimstone.
And
the
rest
were
killed
with
the
sword
which
proceeded
from
the
mouth of Him who sat on the horse. And all the birds were filled with their flesh.” Revelation 19:11-21
Persona
A persona is commonly defined as a:
•
Person’s character, nature or personality—that is different from their real or private character.
•
Personal façade that one presents to the world.
•
A combination of a person’s behavior and words they speak.
Each
of
us
can
relate
to
an
experience
when
we
felt
uncomfortable
with
someone.
A
degree
of
“uneasiness”
rose
within
us
because
of
the
words
that
were
spoken,
mannerisms
and/or
behavior
did
not
align
with
what
they
attempted
to
portray,
and
as
our
God-enabled
attribute
of
discernment
allowed
us
to
see
through
their
façade.
Meanwhile,
additional
“red
flags”
of
warning
would
arise
within
us
as
we
continued to listen and watch, and our discomfort increased.
Jesus
said
you
will
know
them
by
their
fruits
(words,
behavior,
persona,
etc.).
“Beware
of
false
prophets,
who
come
to
you
in
sheep’s
clothing,
but
inwardly
they
are
ravenous
wolves.
You
will
know
them
by
their
fruits.
Do
men
gather
grapes
from
thornbushes
or
figs
from
thistles?
Even
so,
every
good
tree
bears
good
fruit,
but
a
bad
tree
bears
bad
fruit.
A
good
tree
cannot
bear
bad
fruit,
nor
can
a
bad
tree
bear
good
fruit.
Every
tree
that
does
not
bear
good
fruit
is
cut
down
and
thrown
into
the
fire.
Therefore
by
their
fruits you will know them.” Matthew 7:15-20
Because
a
false
christ
and
false
prophet
are
not
filled
with
the
Holy
Spirit;
the
grace
of
God
has
not
changed
their
heart;
and
the
righteousness
of
God
does
not
exist—they
are
under
the
bondage
of
darkness.
As
such,
their
persona
will
demonstrate
consequences
of
sin—including
telltale
signs
of
anger,
hatred,
caustic
words,
disconnected
mannerisms
and
behavior,
and
so
forth—which
indicates
clandestine evil intent.
However,
it
is
important
to
understand
that
the
false
christs
and
prophets
will
be
influenced
by
demonic
spiritual
entities
who
will
possess
skills
of
deception
that
far
exceed
the
capabilities
of
humans.
Even
if
the
words
they
speak
are
based
upon
scripture,
their
persona
displays
righteousness,
and
it
is
difficult
to
ascertain truth—there is one final test: Who is glorified?
Who Is Glorified?
The
purpose
of
using
great
signs
and
wonders
by
the
false
christs
and
prophets
is
to
create
a
“Certificate
of
Authenticity”
that
will
reinforce
the
validity
and
acceptance
of
their
deception.
Their
objective
is
to
direct
the
lost
into
believing
and
following
the
beast—and
to
reject
Jesus
Christ.
Their
miracles
are
not
for entertainment. Therefore, after all is said and done…whom do they glorify…Jesus or the beast?
“If
there
arises
among
you
a
prophet
or
a
dreamer
of
dreams,
and
he
gives
you
a
sign
or
a
wonder,
and
the
sign
or
the
wonder
comes
to
pass,
of
which
he
spoke
to
you,
saying,
‘Let
us
go
after
other
gods’—which
you
have
not
known—‘and
let
us
serve
them,’
you
shall
not
listen
to
the
words
of
that
prophet or that dreamer of dreams.” Deuteronomy 13:1-3
For
example,
if
one
who
claims
to
be
Christ
or
false
prophet
actually
heals
a
person
of
an
infirmity,
casts
out
a
demon,
or
even
brings
a
dead
person
back
to
life—and
then
uses
the
miracle
to
glorify
the
beast
(i.e.
follow
and
serve
another
“god”)—then
stop
listening
and
run
away.
Their
attempt
to
glorify
the
beast
is the best indicator they are a deceiver and an instrument of Satan.
The Two Witnesses
God
will
not
give
Satan
complete
control
during
the
entire
7-year
Tribulation
period.
God
will
send
His
two witnesses who will prophesy and demonstrate divinely-appointed signs and wonders for 3½ years.
“And
I
will
give
power
to
my
two
witnesses,
and
they
will
prophesy
one
thousand
two
hundred
and
sixty
days,
clothed
in
sackcloth.
These
are
the
two
olive
trees
and
the
two
lampstands
standing
before
the
God
of
the
earth.
And
if
anyone
wants
to
harm
them,
fire
proceeds
from
their
mouth
and
devours
their
enemies.
And
if
anyone
wants
to
harm
them,
he
must
be
killed
in
this
manner.
These
have
power
to
shut
heaven,
so
that
no
rain
falls
in
the
days
of
their
prophecy;
and
they
have
power
over
waters
to
turn
them to blood, and to strike the earth with all plagues, as often as they desire.” Revelation 11:3-6
Although
not
stated
in
the
Bible,
it
is
likely
their
prophetic
words
and
testimony
will
encompass
one
or
more of the following:
•
The true nature and intent of the beast.
•
The consequences of worshiping the beast and accepting his mark.
•
How God will pour out His wrath upon the earth.
•
Jesus Christ—the King of kings and Lord of lords—is the only means of salvation.
•
The Kingdom of Jesus Christ is imminent.
Some
will
attempt
to
harm
the
two
witnesses,
but
they
will
be
able
to
destroy
their
enemies
and
perform
miracles
as
proof
of
their
divinely-spoken
words
and
appointed
purpose.
Their
prophetic
words
and
demonstrated
power
will
strengthen
the
resolve
of
the
saints
to
hold
onto
their
faith
and
resist
the
beast
and
his
mark—and
will
reinforce
the
hatred
of
those
who
will
perish.
Meanwhile,
due
to
the
testimony
of
the
two
witnesses
and
the
efforts
of
the
believers
in
Jesus
Christ—the
message
of
Jesus
Christ
will
reach
the
entire
world.
God
will
seek
to
save
every
possible
“grain
of
wheat.”
Jesus
said,
“And
this
gospel
of
the
kingdom
will
be
preached
in
all
the
world
as
a
witness
to
all
the
nations,
and
then
the
end
will come.” Matthew 24:14
T
he Ripple Effect
A
physical
phenomena
called
the
ripple
effect—which
is
a
continuation
and
spreading
of
an
event
or
action—occurred
between
people
as
a
result
of
the
words
of
Jesus
combined
with
His
signs
and
wonders.
Via
word-of-mouth,
His
miracles
magnified
the
propagation
(spreading,
broadcasting)
of
what
He
taught
and
what
He
did
amongst
the
Jews
and
Gentiles.
These
ripples
continue
today,
and will continue their influence into the future.
Two
thousand
years
ago
word-of-mouth
is
how
information
was
transmitted
from
person
to
person.
Now
consider
the
power
of
today’s
communication
channels,
how
(and
by
whom)
they
are
controlled,
the
core
messaging
that
is
disseminated,
and
how
they
will
influence
the
ripple
effect
as
last
day
events
will
instantaneously grab the attention of the masses.
As
darkness
and
division
increases,
it
is
likely
the
communication
channels
will
increasingly
portray
the
amazing
newsworthy
signs
and
wonders
by
false
christs
and
prophets—including
their
declarations—in
a
manner
that
supports
and
aligns
with
the
beast.
Whereas,
messaging
that
conflicts
with
the
beast
will
be
positioned with a caustic and negative spin.
Messaging Intended To Divide and Destroy
Here
are
examples
of
possible
messaging
(by
false
christs,
false
prophets,
the
beast,
and
media
sources)
that
will
be
targeted
to
those
who
will
follow
the
beast,
are
based
upon
lies,
and
will
provide
justification for Christian oppression.
•
Jesus was just a man.
•
Those who hope in Jesus are delusional.
•
Christians are hypocrites, filled with hatred, and a scourge to society.
•
Christians are in the way of returning a “normal life.”
•
The influence of Christians must be stopped.
•
Believe and follow the beast.
The
above
messaging
may
be
compared
to
what
was
used
by
Hitler
to
cause
the
murder
of
more
than
6
million
Jews
during
the
Holocaust.
This
same
satanic
spirit
that
used
Hitler,
will
also
use
the
beast
to
divide the masses and murder the innocent—but he will be destroyed when Jesus returns.
“And
in
the
latter
time
of
their
kingdom,
when
the
transgressors
have
reached
their
fullness,
a
king
shall
arise,
having
fierce
features,
who
understands
sinister
schemes.
His
power
shall
be
mighty,
but
not
by
his
own
power;
he
shall
destroy
fearfully,
and
shall
prosper
and
thrive;
he
shall
destroy
the
mighty,
and
also
the
holy
people.
Through
his
cunning
he
shall
cause
deceit
to
prosper
under
his
rule;
and
he
shall
exalt
himself
in
his
heart.
He
shall
destroy
many
in
their
prosperity.
He
shall
even
rise
against
the
Prince
of
princes;
but
he
shall
be
broken
without
human
means.
And
the
vision
of
the
evenings
and
mornings
which
was
told
is
true;
therefore
seal
up
the
vision,
for
it
refers
to
many
days
in
the
future.”
Daniel
8:23-
26
Today: Truths Are Becoming Lies, Lies Are Becoming Truths
It
is
important
to
understand
Satan’s
strength
and
power
is
based
upon
his
ability
to
deceive
and
lie.
God
nor
Satan
forces
people
to
do
things
against
their
will.
As
such,
every
sinful
act
that
has
occurred
throughout
time
began
as
a
willingness
to
believe
a
lie.
Satan’s
skill
in
deceptional
lies
was
demonstrated
in
the
garden;
and
has
manifested
itself
throughout
time
via
wars,
murders,
interpersonal
strife,
and
whenever
a
decision
is
made
to
not
obey
the
will
of
God.
However,
unlike
the
past,
God
will
allow
Satan
to
fully
use
his
persuasive
skills
during
the
last
days
to
separate
the
saved
from
the
non-
saved.
“For
the
time
will
come
when
they
will
not
endure
sound
doctrine,
but
according
to
their
own
desires,
because
they
have
itching
ears,
they
will
heap
up
for
themselves
teachers;
and
they
will
turn
their
ears
away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.” 2 Timothy 4:3-4
Fables
are
defined
as
a
fictitious
narrative
or
statement.
Today,
we
have
seen
a
multitude
of
fictitious
narratives
(such
as
conspiracy
theories)
that
have
influenced
the
perceptions
of
many.
Fictitious
narratives
are
lies
that
have
been
propagated
by
various
persons
and
media
sources;
and
has
resulted
in
a
great
division
between
those
who
believe
the
lies,
and
those
who
recognize
the
lies.
This
trend
will
worsen
as
those
who
have
itching
ears
(those
who
prefer
lies
over
truth)
will
actively
seek
sources
that
reinforce
the
fictitious
narratives.
Once
a
person
believes
a
lie…it
is
very
difficult
(and
sometimes
impossible)
to
change
their
mind…even
when
they
are
provided
with
factual
evidence
of
the
lie.
They
will
form
“mental
protective
walls”
and
will
“close
the
eyes
and
ears”
to
anything
that
does
not
support
their delusions.
Final Separation of the Wheat and Tares: The Mark
Because
of
the
eternal
costs,
the
final
separator
of
wheat
from
tares
will
occur
when
the
mark
of
the
beast is required to buy and sell (purchase food, pay for rent, buy gasoline, and survive).
“He
causes
all,
both
small
and
great,
rich
and
poor,
free
and
slave,
to
receive
a
mark
on
their
right
hand
or
on
their
foreheads,
and
that
no
one
may
buy
or
sell
except
one
who
has
the
mark
or
the
name
of
the
beast, or the number of his name.” Revelation 13:16-17
However,
those
who
receive
the
mark
are
the
tares
who
will
be
bound
together
in
bundles
for
eternal
burning in the lake of fire—where there will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
“Then
a
third
angel
followed
them,
saying
with
a
loud
voice,
‘If
anyone
worships
the
beast
and
his
image,
and
receives
his
mark
on
his
forehead
or
on
his
hand,
he
himself
shall
also
drink
of
the
wine
of
the
wrath
of
God,
which
is
poured
out
full
strength
into
the
cup
of
His
indignation.
He
shall
be
tormented
with
fire
and
brimstone
in
the
presence
of
the
holy
angels
and
in
the
presence
of
the
Lamb.
And
the
smoke
of
their
torment
ascends
forever
and
ever;
and
they
have
no
rest
day
or
night,
who
worship
the
beast
and
his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name.’” Revelation 14:9-11
To
fully
understand
the
power
of
the
beast’s
mark
to
effectively
segment—and
visually
identify—the
wheat
from
the
tares,
take
a
moment
and
think
about
the
emotions
and
thoughts
of
every
person
who
will
evaluate
the
significant
costs
of
continuing
to
follow
Jesus,
as
they
ask
themselves,
“How
will
we
survive
if
we
are
unable
to
buy
and
sell?”
Tares
(those
who
“look
like”
or
profess
to
be
Christian—but
live
to
fulfill
their
flesh)
will
find
it
extremely
difficult
to
overcome
the
compelling
desire
to
accept
the
beast’s
mark.
Whereas
Christians
who
seek
Jesus
with
all
their
heart,
soul
and
mind—will
reject
the
mark,
and
step
forward in complete faith and into the unknown that’s before them.
The Coming of the Beast is Unstoppable
All
prophesies
in
the
Bible
will
come
true—including
the
beast—who
will
be
used
by
God
as
a
“tool”
to
separate the wheat from the tares.
For
those
who
think
it
may
be
possible
to
attack
and
kill
the
beast—to
circumvent
Satan’s
objective—has
a
misunderstanding
of
who
they
are,
and
God’s
objective.
However,
an
attempt
will
be
made.
Scripture
reveals
one
of
the
beast’s
heads
(himself,
a
country,
a
military
stronghold,
or
some
other
entity
controlled
by
the
beast)
will
receive
a
mortal
wound
and
will
heal.
This
miraculous
healing
will
be
positioned
to
the
masses
as
a
sign
and
wonder
of
his
authority.
The
messaging
will
declare
they
should
follow
and
worship
the
beast—but
worse—they
should
also
worship
Satan
(the
dragon
who
gives
authority
to
the
beast).
“The
dragon
gave
him
his
power,
his
throne,
and
great
authority.
And
I
saw
one
of
his
heads
as
if
it
had
been
mortally
wounded,
and
his
deadly
wound
was
healed.
And
all
the
world
marveled
and
followed
the
beast.
So
they
worshiped
the
dragon
who
gave
authority
to
the
beast;
and
they
worshiped
the
beast,
saying, ‘Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?’” Revelation 13:2-4
Conclusion
Throughout
time,
God
has
used
signs
and
wonders
as
a
means
to
provide
tangible
evidence
that
validates
His
words
as
true.
In
addition,
throughout
time
God
has
allowed
Satan
and
his
minions
to
use
deceptional
lies—but
has
not
allowed
the
ability
to
use
the
persuasive
power
of
signs
and
wonders.
However,
during
the
last
days,
God
will
allow
unprecedented
deception
to
occur
via
false
christs
and
false
prophets
who
will
demonstrate
great
signs
and
wonders
to
separate
and
gather
the
saved
from
the
non-saved.
John
the
Baptist
declared,
“I
indeed
baptize
you
with
water
unto
repentance,
but
He
who
is
coming
after
me
is
mightier
than
I,
whose
sandals
I
am
not
worthy
to
carry.
He
will
baptize
you
with
the
Holy
Spirit
and
fire.
His
winnowing
fan
is
in
His
hand,
and
He
will
thoroughly
clean
out
His
threshing
floor,
and
gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” Matthew 3:11-12
If
you
are
like
me…you
may
have
an
uncomfortable
feeling
deep
in
your
stomach
as
you
complete
this
lesson.
The
darkness
of
what’s
ahead
is
mind
boggling
and
gut
wrenching.
None
of
us
likes
to
look
into
the
future
Tribulation
and
consider
what
will
occur.
The
following
scriptures
will
provide
Christians
who
are
living
during
this
time
of
darkness
with
spiritual
hope,
spiritual
insight,
and
spiritual
strength
to
endure.
Hold
onto
your
faith!
“Therefore,
since
we
have
this
ministry,
as
we
have
received
mercy,
we
do
not
lose
heart.
But
we
have
renounced
the
hidden
things
of
shame,
not
walking
in
craftiness
nor
handling
the
word
of
God
deceitfully,
but
by
manifestation
of
the
truth
commending
ourselves
to
every
man’s
conscience
in
the
sight
of
God.
But
even
if
our
gospel
is
veiled,
it
is
veiled
to
those
who
are
perishing,
whose
minds
the
god
of
this
age
has
blinded,
who
do
not
believe,
lest
the
light
of
the
gospel
of
the
glory
of
Christ,
who
is
the
image
of
God,
should
shine
on
them.
For
we
do
not
preach
ourselves,
but
Christ
Jesus
the
Lord,
and
ourselves
your
bondservants
for
Jesus’
sake.
For
it
is
the
God
who
commanded
light
to
shine
out
of
darkness,
who
has
shone
in
our
hearts
to
give
the
light
of
the
knowledge
of
the
glory
of
God in the face of Jesus Christ.” 2 Corinthians 4:1-6
Trust
in
our
Savior
who
declared,
“Therefore
I
say
to
you,
do
not
worry
about
your
life,
what
you
will
eat;
nor
about
the
body,
what
you
will
put
on.
Life
is
more
than
food,
and
the
body
is
more
than
clothing.
Consider
the
ravens,
for
they
neither
sow
nor
reap,
which
have
neither
storehouse
nor
barn;
and
God
feeds
them.
Of
how
much
more
value
are
you
than
the
birds?
And
which
of
you
by
worrying
can
add
one
cubit
to
his
stature?
If
you
then
are
not
able
to
do
the
least,
why
are
you
anxious
for
the
rest?
Consider
the
lilies,
how
they
grow:
they
neither
toil
nor
spin;
and
yet
I
say
to
you,
even
Solomon
in
all
his
glory
was
not
arrayed
like
one
of
these.
If
then
God
so
clothes
the
grass,
which
today
is
in
the
field
and
tomorrow
is
thrown
into
the
oven,
how
much
more
will
He
clothe
you,
O
you
of
little
faith?
And
do
not
seek
what
you
should
eat
or
what
you
should
drink,
nor
have
an
anxious
mind.
For
all
these
things
the
nations
of
the
world
seek
after,
and
your
Father
knows
that
you
need
these
things.
But
seek
the
kingdom
of God, and all these things shall be added to you. Luke 12:22-31
There
will
be
no
more
pain,
nor
sorrow,
nor
tears,
nor
second
death—for
all
of
this
will
pass
away.
“Now
I
saw
a
new
heaven
and
a
new
earth,
for
the
first
heaven
and
the
first
earth
had
passed
away.
Also
there
was
no
more
sea.
Then
I,
John,
saw
the
holy
city,
New
Jerusalem,
coming
down
out
of
heaven
from
God,
prepared
as
a
bride
adorned
for
her
husband.
And
I
heard
a
loud
voice
from
heaven
saying,
‘Behold,
the
tabernacle
of
God
is
with
men,
and
He
will
dwell
with
them,
and
they
shall
be
His
people.
God
Himself
will
be
with
them
and
be
their
God.
And
God
will
wipe
away
every
tear
from
their
eyes;
there
shall
be
no
more
death,
nor
sorrow,
nor
crying.
There
shall
be
no
more
pain,
for
the
former
things
have
passed
away.’
Then
He
who
sat
on
the
throne
said,
‘Behold,
I
make
all
things
new.’
And
He
said
to
me,
‘Write,
for
these
words
are
true
and
faithful.’
And
He
said
to
me,
‘It
is
done!
I
am
the
Alpha
and
the
Omega,
the
Beginning
and
the
End.
I
will
give
of
the
fountain
of
the
water
of
life
freely
to
him
who
thirsts.
He
who
overcomes
shall
inherit
all
things,
and
I
will
be
his
God
and
he
shall
be
My
son.
But
the
cowardly,
unbelieving,
abominable,
murderers,
sexually
immoral,
sorcerers,
idolaters,
and
all
liars
shall
have
their
part
in
the
lake
which
burns
with
fire
and
brimstone,
which
is
the
second
death.”
Revelation 21:1-8
Satan,
the
beast,
and
the
souls
of
those
who
rejected
truth
will
never
die.
But
rather,
they
will
spend
eternity—along
with
death
and
hell—in
the
lake
of
fire.
“The
devil,
who
deceived
them,
was
cast
into
the
lake
of
fire
and
brimstone
where
the
beast
and
the
false
prophet
are.
And
they
will
be
tormented
day
and
night
forever
and
ever.
Then
I
saw
a
great
white
throne
and
Him
who
sat
on
it,
from
whose
face
the
earth
and
the
heaven
fled
away.
And
there
was
found
no
place
for
them.
And
I
saw
the
dead,
small
and
great,
standing
before
God,
and
books
were
opened.
And
another
book
was
opened,
which
is
the
Book
of
Life.
And
the
dead
were
judged
according
to
their
works,
by
the
things
which
were
written
in
the
books.
The
sea
gave
up
the
dead
who
were
in
it,
and
Death
and
Hades
delivered
up
the
dead
who
were
in
them.
And
they
were
judged,
each
one
according
to
his
works.
Then
Death
and
Hades
were
cast
into
the
lake
of
fire.
This
is
the
second
death.
And
anyone
not
found
written
in
the
Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:10-15
For more information on last day indicators, read “21 Signs of the Last days.”
May you be richly blessed as you prepare for the return of our Savior and Lord!
H
arold D. Thomas
Bible Study Thought-Provoking Questions
The
purpose
of
the
questions
is
to
facilitate
a
deeper
understanding
of
the
Bible,
this
Bible
study
topic,
and
ourselves.
The
questions
may
be
answered
by
each
reader,
or
used
by
a
Bible
study
group
leader
or church pastor. The questions should be answered or discussed after reading “Signs and Wonders.”
The
following
questions
are
designed
to
enhance
learning
via
the
determination
of
personal
opinions
and/or discovering how the lesson content illuminates our lives. As such, no answers are provided.
Questions
The
lesson
provided
examples
of
possible
messaging
that
will
likely
support
Christian
oppression.
Imagine
you
are
confronted
by
someone
that
speaks
the
following
words
to
you.
What
would
you
say
in
response?
Plus,
can
you
identify
at
least
1
scriptural
truth
in
the
Bible
that
may
be
used
as
a
response
to
each lie?
•
Jesus was just a man.
•
Those who hope in Jesus are delusional.
•
Christians are hypocrites, filled with hatred, and a scourge to society.
•
Christians are in the way of returning a “normal life.”
•
The influence of Christians must be stopped.
•
We must believe in and follow the beast.
Consider
the
purpose
and
influence
of
the
various
signs
and
wonders
God
demonstrated
through
Moses,
Jesus, the disciples, and will demonstrate through the Two Witnesses (Revelation 11:3-6).
•
What
degree
of
deceptional
influence
would
false
christs
and
false
prophets
have
if
they
were
not
given
the
power
to
perform
great
signs
and
wonders
(i.e.
they
are
only
given
deceptional
lies
to
declare).
•
What type miracles do you think the false christs and prophets will use to deceive?
The
lesson
states
the
best
test
to
ascertain
a
false
christ
or
false
prophet
is
based
upon
whom
they
glorify. Do you agree or disagree?
The
Two
Witnesses
will
be
eventually
killed
by
the
beast,
their
dead
bodies
will
lie
in
the
street
for
3
½
days,
they
will
be
viewed
by
everyone
on
earth,
and
the
doomed
will
celebrate
their
death.
However,
the
Two
Witnesses
will
come
alive
and
ascend
into
heaven
when
a
loud
voice
declares
“Come
up
here.”
A
great
earthquake
will
occur,
a
large
portion
of
the
city
will
fall,
and
many
will
be
killed
(Revelation
11:7-14)
.
•
Describe
the
impact
of
this
sign
and
wonder
upon
the
mindset
and
emotions
of
those
who
just
celebrated the death of the Two Witnesses. Plus, how will believers in Jesus in respond?
•
Revelation
11:9
states,
“Then
those
from
the
peoples,
tribes,
tongues,
and
nations
will
see
their
dead
bodies three-and-a-half days.”
o
This
prophetic
scripture
was
written
almost
2,000
years
ago.
Was
it
possible
back
then
for
peoples, tries, tongues, and nations (i.e. everyone on earth) to see their dead bodies?
o
What has changed that will enable the fulfillment of this last day prophecy?
The
lesson
states
the
mark
of
the
beast
is
the
final
“separator”
of
wheat
from
tares.
Do
you
agree
or
disagree?
Did you learn anything new, and do you now look at signs and wonders from a different perspective?
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The words of Jesus Christ are in
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