Matthew 24:12 tells us one of the characteristics of the last days will be that the “love of many will grow cold.”  I don’t know about you, but when I thought of that verse before, I always thought Jesus was talking to those who were outside the Church; those that were in the ‘world’.  But of recent days, I have begun to see how this verse may apply to those who are within the Church, or appear to be in the Church.

In the last days, churches will contain both, wheat (the real deal Christians) and tares (pretenders).  Within their ranks, there will be those who are ruled and motivated by many things; some by a search for significance, some by a need for control, some by a need for recognition, and some are motivated by love.  Jesus said not to try and separate them because only He knows the heart – and if you try to uproot the tares, you may pull up and destroy some wheat with them.  But be assured, there is a Church within the church. Continue reading →