FromNowUntilForeverBook8.5x5.5 REV.indd

him back into his old self.Tragically, the evil side usurps con- trol and Mr. Hyde ends up getting killed. For sake of analogy, let’s compare ourselves as believ- ers to Dr. Jekyll. Although periodically battling our personal demons, we basically consider ourselves decent people. Over time, however, Satan’s lies and deception begin to take their toll.We observe the tantalizing behavior going on around us and yearn to partake. Far too often, figuratively speaking, some choose to consume a devilish brew that gives free rein to their dark side. If you find you’ve swallowed an elixir that’s releasing your dark side, you’re not alone. The Bible warns that as theend of time approaches, an increasing number of Dr. Jekyllswill morph into Mr. Hydes. In our central text for this chapter, Paul warned Timothy of this spiritual blight two millennia ago by saying, “But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come” (2 Timothy 3:1). In a general sense, “last days” refers to the whole messianic age, that specific period of time between the first and second comings of Christ. Peter confirms this in his sermon at Pente- cost, which took place 40 days after the resurrection of Jesus. Quoting from the prophet Joel, he declared, “‘INTHE LAST DAYS,’ God says,‘THAT IWILL POUR FORTH OF MY SPIRIT ON ALL MANKIND’” (Acts 2:17). The marvelous, miraculous activities that took place in Jerusalem on that day fulfilled these words. Yet, I firmly believe Paul refers here to a specific period of growing degradation that will occur as Jesus’ return draws closer. Scripture says, “In the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts” (2 Peter 3:3). Certainly, these defamers have spewed their poison consistently through- out the last two thousand years. Yet, who can deny the increas- ing intensity and extensiveness of such behavior that takes place

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