Is Apostasy
Possible?

Commentary by Roger Oakland
Understand The Times International:
Roger Oakland Ministries
www.understandthetimes.org
1.800.689.1888

Are we living in a day similar to what it was like before Noah’s flood came and destroyed the world? While that question might sound harsh, think about this for a moment. When Jesus was asked by His disciples for signs of the times regarding His return, He answered them by telling them it would be just like it was in the days of Noah. [1] The days of Noah were characterized by a terrible apostasy. [2] If the return of Jesus is at hand, should we not see some parallels?

Since 1990, when Understand The Times was founded, I have been committed to warn people about the apostasy the Bible states will characterize the days before Jesus returns. Over these years we have seen a pattern that has emerged. There are fewer Christians now who are concerned about apostasy than there were fifteen to twenty years ago.

Now, how could this be? As time has passed it would seem that those who have followed current events should have been able to see the fulfillment of the signs predicted by Jesus and others. How can anyone miss it? We have been warned ahead of time what to watch for and now current events indicate these warning signs are underway. Shouldn’t every Bible believing Christian be shouting as loud as possible – the time of His return is near?

Such is not the case. You might be shocked if I were to let you read some of the letters and e-mails I get. There are a number who have endeavored to have our Understand The Times program removed from several radio stations. Some say the warnings we have been airing are a distortion of the truth. There is no such thing as “an ecumenical agenda” to unite the “separated brethren” with Rome, they say. Apostasy is not a word that is even in their vocabulary.

Further, these critics are convinced that Jesus can’t come, until the church gets the job done. In essence, they believe that while governments have failed to bring social justice here on earth, the church is now called to play that role. Their plan involves mobilizing two billion Christians worldwide to form a mighty army of God. Have you heard about this plan? If you haven’t, you will.

Now, to establish such a plan here on earth is, of course, a noble effort. But man’s plans, if they are not God’s plans are useless. Is it possible to believe you are helping God out, when in fact you are not? Remember, that is exactly what apostasy is – being convinced you are serving God, when instead you have been seduced and don’t know it.

The only way to be protected from being swept into apostasy is to be in God’s Word. Study His Word and know what is says. If you don’t you could be part of the problem rather than the solution