“For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.” Matthew 24:24
There have been many false prophets and false christs who have stated they were the mouthpieces of Jesus. As Jesus foretold, “…many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ’…”
The Pope is himself one of these false prophets. The following is a quote from Pope Leo XIII in the Encyclical Letter of June 20, 1894, page 304: “We hold upon this earth the place of God Almighty.” No man holds the place of God! That is a false claim.
But who are “the very elect” mentioned at the end of verse 24? The elect are believers who faithfully obey God and develop the fruits of the spirit. Not all who profess Jesus will be faithful, only a little flock. 2 Peter 1:10, “…brethren (saved believers in Christ) give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fail.” As the Apostle Paul writes, “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.” 1 Corinthians 9:27.
Just before Christ establishes His kingdom on earth, deceptions will increase. Some believe that God may allow materialization of the fallen angels (imprisoned in the Earth's atmosphere after the Flood). This possibility is speculative. These demons may be able to create signs and wonders so impressive, that were it not for God’s power, they could even deceive the last members of the church on earth.
To summarize, the last members of the body of Christ are allowed to go through sifting experiences, but if they stay close to His word, they will discern these manifestations as lying wonders coming from the adversary, Satan.
