1 John 5:18–21

The last word

We know that we are from God, and the whole world lies in the power of the evil one. And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. Little children, keep yourselves from idols.

Without question, this world is under the control of the spirit of the antichrist. The upcoming election alone is evidence that human nature is to divide and conquer in a desperate grab for power and authority. However, that power and authority is limited. Presidencies last four to eight years and then they’re over. Political parties evolve and change over time until party members no longer recognise them.

Just as secular politicians seek power for themselves, so do many church leaders and members. Church politics divide those who call themselves Christian. There are plenty of preachers and church leaders caught up in the pursuit of fame, fortune, and influence. Some scandals and cover-ups boggle the mind and make people question everything to the point of a “deconstructing” crisis across generations and denominations.

The false teachers of the first century may have had different methods, but the root of their lies were the same: personal validation, personal power, and personal control of others…