In the last days many will be deceived even the elect

In the Last Days, Many Will Be Deceived – Even the Elect

       One of the most striking warnings Jesus gave about the end times is found in Matthew 24:24 (NKJV): “For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.”

       This verse reveals a profound spiritual danger: deception will be so powerful in the last days that even true believers—God’s elect—must remain vigilant. Jesus wasn't exaggerating; He was offering a clear sign of the times and a serious warning to the Church.

         Today, we see the prophecy of this Scripture coming into pass. Many elects are being misled and guided into an error that will make them miss the glorious oncoming event called the rapture.

What Does “Even the Elect” Mean?

       The “elect” refers to those who have been chosen by God—believers redeemed by the blood of Christ, walking in His truth. For Jesus to say that even the elect could be deceived emphasizes the intensity and subtlety of the coming deception.

       Satan knows his time is short. Revelation 12:12 says, “Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and the sea! For the devil has come down to you, having great wrath...” He works tirelessly through false teachers, counterfeit miracles, and twisted doctrine to derail believers.

Characteristics of Last-Day Deception

1. False Christs and False Prophets

       Deceivers will arise claiming to be sent by God—or even to be Christ Himself. Their teachings may sound biblical but will distort the truth (Matthew 7:15). Many will follow them because of their charisma, influence, or supernatural displays.

2. Signs and Wonders

       Not every miracle comes from God. 2 Thessalonians 2:9 warns that Satan will empower the Antichrist to perform “lying wonders.” These signs will impress many but serve to validate falsehood, not truth.

3. Twisting of Scripture

       Like the serpent in Eden, deceivers often use portions of Scripture to promote a lie. They exploit people’s lack of biblical knowledge to spread false doctrines (2 Peter 3:16).

4. Appeal to Emotions Over Truth

       Deception in the last days often plays on emotions—comfort, prosperity, or fear—rather than God’s unchanging truth. This leads many to follow a “feel-good” gospel that lacks repentance and holiness.

How Can Believers Avoid Being Deceived?

1. Know God’s Word Deeply

       Psalm 119:11 says, “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” A believer who knows Scripture is equipped to discern false teaching.

2. Develop Spiritual Discernment

       Hebrews 5:14 tells us that mature believers have their “senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” We must test everything by the Word and the Holy Spirit (1 John 4:1).

3. Stay in Fellowship and Accountability

       Lone Christians are easier to mislead. Being part of a biblically sound community provides correction, encouragement, and spiritual safety.

4. Watch and Pray

      Jesus said in Matthew 26:41, “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation.” Prayer sharpens our spiritual senses and keeps us aligned with God’s heart.

       We live in a time when deception is rampant. From false doctrines on social media to self-appointed prophets leading people astray, the spiritual climate is increasingly dangerous. But God has not left His people defenseless.

       Jesus said in John 10:27, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” As we stay close to the Shepherd, rooted in His Word and led by His Spirit, we can navigate the deception of the last days with confidence and truth.