The concept of the "Coming Apostasy" refers to a prophesied period of widespread falling away from the Christian faith, as foretold in the New Testament. This anticipated event is characterized by a significant departure from biblical truth and a turning away from the faith once delivered to the saints. The term "apostasy" itself derives from the Greek word "apostasia," meaning a defection or revolt, particularly in a religious context.

Biblical References

The New Testament provides several key passages that discuss the coming apostasy. In 2 Thessalonians 2:3, the Apostle Paul warns the church in Thessalonica, "Let no one deceive you in any way, for it will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness—the son of destruction—is revealed." This verse indicates that a great rebellion or falling away will precede the revelation of the Antichrist, suggesting a significant spiritual decline before the end times.

In 1 Timothy 4:1, Paul further elaborates, "Now the Spirit expressly states that in later times some will abandon the faith to follow deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons." This passage highlights the spiritual deception that will lead many away from the truth, emphasizing the influence of false teachings and demonic doctrines.

Similarly, in 2 Timothy 4:3-4, Paul cautions, "For the time will come when men will not tolerate sound doctrine, but with itching ears they will gather around themselves teachers to suit their own desires. So they will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths." This prophecy underscores the rejection of sound doctrine in favor of teachings that cater to personal preferences and desires.

Characteristics of the Apostasy

The coming apostasy is marked by several distinct characteristics, as outlined in the biblical texts:

1. Deception and False Teachings: A significant feature of the apostasy is the prevalence of false teachings and deceptive doctrines. These teachings often distort or deny core Christian beliefs, leading many astray. Jesus Himself warned of false prophets in Matthew 24:11, saying, "And many false prophets will arise and mislead many."

2. Moral Decline: The apostasy is also associated with a decline in moral and ethical standards. In 2 Timothy 3:1-5, Paul describes the perilous times of the last days, noting that people will be "lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, without love of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God."

3. Rejection of Truth: A hallmark of the apostasy is the rejection of biblical truth. As people turn away from sound doctrine, they embrace myths and falsehoods, as noted in 2 Timothy 4:4. This rejection of truth is often accompanied by a disdain for traditional Christian teachings and values.

4. Persecution of the Faithful: Those who remain faithful to biblical truth during the apostasy may face increased persecution. Jesus warned His disciples in Matthew 24:9, "Then they will deliver you over to be persecuted and killed, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name."

Implications for Believers

The coming apostasy serves as a sobering reminder for believers to remain vigilant and steadfast in their faith. The New Testament encourages Christians to hold fast to sound doctrine, to test the spirits, and to be discerning in the face of false teachings. In Jude 1:3, believers are exhorted to "contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints."

The anticipation of the coming apostasy calls for a renewed commitment to prayer, study of the Scriptures, and fellowship with other believers. It also underscores the importance of evangelism and discipleship, as the church seeks to proclaim the gospel and make disciples in a world increasingly hostile to the truth.