What might be the most disturbing of all the descriptions of the last days concerns religious people. In the last days, there will still be those who claim to believe in God. They will practice religious rituals and still use pious language. The problem will be that they have no spiritual power.
The Gospel does not consist primarily of words, but in power. Today we can hear television preachers or speakers in grandiose churches using numerous religious clichés and flowery phrases. They may cite the example of Jesus or refer to God’s love, but it becomes clear that these are merely trite, meaningless, powerless phrases. No one is set free by such sermonettes. Sin is redefined by such speakers but it is not overcome in people’s lives.
Paul urged Timothy to avoid people who talk about religious subjects but who do not demonstrate God’s power. People who preach eloquent sermons must do so in their own power. But those who deliver a message from God can do so with divine strength. Don’t be fooled by people’s eloquence or high-sounding phrases. Look for power. Avoid powerless preachers and teachers like the plague.