– Today’s Community Scripture – 10/20/2025
Now, friends, read these next words carefully. Slow down and don’t go jumping to conclusions regarding the day when our Master, Jesus Christ, will come back and we assemble to welcome him. Don’t let anyone shake you up or get you excited over some breathless report or rumored letter from me that the day of the Master’s arrival has come and gone. Don’t fall for any line like that. Before that day comes, a couple of things have to happen. First, the Apostasy. Second, the debut of the Anarchist, a real dog of Satan. He’ll defy and then take over every so-called god or altar. Having cleared away the opposition, he’ll then set himself up in God’s Temple as “God Almighty.” Don’t you remember me going over all this in detail when I was with you? Are your memories that short? You’ll also remember that I told you the Anarchist is being held back until just the right time. That doesn’t mean that the spirit of anarchy is not now at work. It is, secretly and underground. But the time will come when the Anarchist will no longer be held back, but will be let loose. But don’t worry. The Master Jesus will be right on his heels and blow him away. The Master appears and—puff!—the Anarchist is out of there. The Anarchist’s coming is all Satan’s work. All his power and signs and miracles are fake, evil sleight of hand that plays to the gallery of those who hate the truth that could save them. And since they’re so obsessed with evil, God rubs their noses in it—gives them what they want. Since they refuse to trust truth, they’re banished to their chosen world of lies and illusions. Meanwhile, we’ve got our hands full continually thanking God for you, our good friends—so loved by God! God picked you out as his from the very start. Think of it: included in God’s original plan of salvation by the bond of faith in the living truth. This is the life of the Spirit he invited you to through the Message we delivered, in which you get in on the glory of our Master, Jesus Christ. So, friends, take a firm stand, feet on the ground and head high. Keep a tight grip on what you were taught, whether in personal conversation or by our letter. May Jesus himself and God our Father, who reached out in love and surprised you with gifts of unending help and confidence, put a fresh heart in you, invigorate your work, enliven your speech.
2 Thessalonians 2:1–17 (MSG)
– Reflection:
This Bible passage offers a sobering yet hopeful reflection on the reality of spiritual deception, the endurance of faith, and the ultimate triumph of Christ. I urge believers to remain grounded and discerning, not swayed by sensational claims or fearful rumors about the return of Jesus. The Word reminds us that certain events like the great falling away and the rise of the Anarchist must precede Christ’s return. These warnings are not meant to instill fear, but to cultivate spiritual vigilance. The Bible passage paints a vivid picture of evil pretending to be divine, yet it reassures us that Jesus will decisively defeat this deception. It challenges us to examine our own hearts: are we clinging to truth, or are we drawn to illusions that comfort or entertain? Ultimately, Paul calls us to stand firm, rooted in the teachings of Christ, encouraged by God’s love and empowered by His Spirit. This is a call to live with integrity, clarity, and confidence knowing that even in the face of chaos, we are chosen, loved, and sustained by grace.
– Where do we go from here?
Now that we’ve read this message from the Bible, it’s time to take action. First, let’s stay calm and not get caught up in scary stories or rumors about the end of the world. God wants us to be wise and steady. We should keep learning the truth from the Bible and not let fake news or flashy lies pull us away. Even though evil is working in secret, Jesus is stronger and will win in the end. So let’s hold on tight to what we’ve been taught, pray often, and help each other stay strong. God chose us, loves us, and gives us power through His Spirit. Let’s live like we believe that—by being kind, speaking truth, and doing good wherever we go.
– Our Prayer for Today
Father, thank You for loving us and choosing us to be Yours. Today, we stand strong in Your truth and hold tight to what You’ve taught us. Help us not to be fooled by lies or shaken by fear. Fill our hearts with Your Spirit so we can live with courage, speak with kindness, and walk in faith. We trust You, Lord, and we look forward to the day You return in glory. Until then, keep us steady, full of love, and ready to share Your light. Amen.
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Let Your Spirit guide our decisions, our conversations, and our actions. When challenges come, remind us that You are our strength. When we feel weak, remind us that steel is forged in fire, and You are shaping us for something greater. Let today be a day where we grow, serve, and reflect Your love in everything we do.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.