Matthew 24:12

"Many false prophets will arise and will lead many astray."

Key Reflection

In the first-century Jewish context, this verse would have resonated deeply as a warning against false teachers who could deceive believers. The term "false prophets" (ψευδοπροφήται) refers to those claiming divine revelation but offering teachings that contradict established religious norms and prophecy. Given the political and religious turmoil of the time, such figures might exploit the uncertainty surrounding the coming judgment or second temple destruction, leading many to embrace their false doctrines and potentially away from authentic Jewish faith practices.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 12. And because iniquity, etc. The word iniquity here seems to include the cruelty of the Jews and Romans in their persecutions; the betraying of Christians by those who professed to be such; and the pernicious errors of false prophets and others. The effect of all this would be, that the ardour of feeling of many Christians would be lessened. The word wax means to become. It is an old Saxon word, not used now in this sense, except in the Bible. The fear of death, and the deluding influence of false teachers, would lessen the zeal of many timid and weak professors; perhaps also of many real but feeble Christians.

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