JUl 24 – With Wild Beasts!

“If, in the manner of men, I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantage is it to me?” (1 Corinthians 15:32)

In our spiritual battles, we often come up against what the Bible refers to as “wild beasts.” But these are not literal lions or bears or wolves. In this context, the “wild beasts” refer to false teachings.

In the days of the early apostles, many such false doctrines were spreading widely. For example: The Sadducees taught that there was no resurrection, no hell, and no demons. Another group emphasized strict adherence to Old Testament laws, such as circumcision, rituals, and traditions. Some denied the divinity of Christ altogether.

Paul had to contend with these “wild beasts” — not animals, but destructive doctrines. Why does the Bible compare false teachings to wild beasts? Because one of the names for the Antichrist is “the beast.” The book of Revelation speaks extensively about this beast.

The Word says: “I saw a beast coming out of the sea… On its heads a blasphemous name… The dragon gave the beast his power and his throne and great authority” (Revelation 13:1–2). Just as the beast rose from the sea then, today many false teachings rise up – clothed in sheep’s clothing, yet inwardly ravenous wolves, spreading throughout our land.

The apostle John warns us about these false teachings: ” Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world…. Every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world” (1 John 4:1,3).

If we do not resist these false doctrines, they will overpower many like wild beasts. Like wolves, they prey on young believers, misleading them and weakening the spiritually unsteady.

Dear child of God, if you seek from the Lord the gift of discernment, you will be equipped to expose and overcome the spirit of the Antichrist. Examine every doctrine in the light of Scripture. Test every experience to see whether it aligns with the truth of God’s Word.

Verse for further meditation: “Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ… that you stand firm in one spirit” (Philippians 1:27)