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It is an imperative that every true child of the Lord have a proper knowledge of the events of the end of the age. In particular the character, the nature of the one called the antichrist. Peter wrote and warned of false teachers who would gain a place of prominence and trust, then ìbring in damnable heresiesî false teachings, lies which would mislead the church. Through their devious ways they will attempt to negate the truth. Which brings us to another sign that is glaringly evident in the false church. It was an outstanding feature of Tyre and will be of the false church. The key word is merchandising, of which Tyre was no doubt a capitol. Jesus drove the merchants from the temple saying that they were making His Fatherís house a house of merchandise. John 2:16 If He was that concerned about the sale of doves in that day, how does He feel about the merchandising being conducted by churches and those in leadership today. One thing that is predominate in the last day harlot church is her ability to make her adherents rich. Rev. 18:11-15
This woman of Revelation eighteen, the last day harlot church is an object of great beauty. She is gorgeously clothed with the very best of fine and costly clothing. The appeal of riches is not only one of her doctrines but it is aptly displayed that she too is a partaker of the riches of this world, counting them to be the evidence of her spirituality. She is extremely rich, but in one hour all that she had accumulated unto herself was completely destroyed. Those who had been made rich by her and had trusted their future to her, suddenly found themselves in the financial depression of all depressions, for all commerce will cease. Rev. 18:11
History, the experiences of others, our own experiences, and certainly by no means the least, the Word of the Lord are all there to guide and direct the lives of those who will learn in a manner conducive to peace and tranquility. The wise man said; ìThat which has been is what will be, That which is done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun.î Eccl. 1:9 In the days of Peter the church had been visited by those who sought to destroy the way of truth. Using the systems of the world they looked upon the sheep as objects of merchandising. Rather than seeing the needs of the spiritual man they saw only the wool ( $ $ ) and were out to shear the sheep. 2 Peter 2:3 This is the seed which fell among the thorns, they heard the Word of the Lord, but the cares, the riches and pleasures of this world choked out the inspiration which was generated in their hearts when they heard the Word. Any spiritual aspirations they may have are quickly swallowed up by the appeal of this earthly life. Luke 8:14 They bring no fruit to perfection in the very time when the Lord will have a glorious church. Eph. 5:27.