False Christs and False Prophets
Jesus warned of deceivers who would arise showing great signs and wonders.
Jesus warned that in the last days many would come in His name and deceive many, and that false christs and false prophets would arise showing great signs and wonders to seduce, if possible, even the elect.
The Prophecy
"For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect."
"But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies..."
"Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whence we know that it is the last time."
A continual sign
Every age has seen false christs and false prophets — but the last days will see them multiplied, accompanied by lying wonders.
The safeguard
Christ's command is to be not deceived (Luke 21:8). The safeguard is the Scriptures: every spirit and every sign must be tested by the written word.
People in This Prophecy
Verse Commentary
Read verse-by-verse commentary on the key passages of this prophecy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are false christs?
Pretenders who claim Christ's office or name — already many, with a culminating figure (the antichrist) to come.
How do we recognize a false christ or prophet?
By their fruits and doctrine (Matthew 7:15-20; 1 John 4:1-3) — any teaching that denies Christ's deity, atonement, or bodily resurrection is false.
Will the elect be deceived?
Jesus said it would be impossible — true believers will be kept by the Father (Matthew 24:24; John 10:28-29).
Related Bible Prophecies
The Antichrist and the Man of Sin
A final lawless one to be destroyed by the brightness of Christ's coming.
The Great Apostasy
Paul foretold a falling away from the faith before the day of the Lord.
Signs of the End of the Age
Wars, famines, earthquakes — Christ's foretold birth-pangs of the end.
The Mark of the Beast
Revelation 13 foretells a forced mark for buying and selling under the beast.
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