Be Not Deceived

The great churches of Europe standing empty tells the story of the great falling away better than anything else. Secularism has taken over the Western World. From the words of Jesus we were forewarned.

“Take heed that no one deceive you. For many will come in my name, saying ‘I am the Christ’ and will deceive many.” Matt 24:4-5

We’re living in an age when the people of the world declare that every religion and every prophet leads to heaven. Those who dare to proclaim the true Christ to be the only way to salvation are enemies to the world. We’ve always known that to be true, but never has it been so glaring.

Christian persecution is rampant and varied throughout the world. In many countries people are imprisoned or executed for their faith. Iran and North Korea for sure, but many others don’t tolerate Christian teaching. It can be a crime to own a Bible.

Persecution is happening here in the United States. Standing up for Christ can get you bad grades in college, lose your business, lose friends, and pull families apart. At the least, speaking out can bring on ridicule. Evangelizing is considered taboo, even in Christian churches. You can only share your beliefs with others like you. Proclaiming the good news of Christ to the outside world is offensive.

Christian authors are accused of “preaching” if they dare to mention Jesus too much.

I suppose the older I get, the more aware I am of the deception tactics of the world. The wolf in sheep’s clothing pops up frequently in my stories. The bad guy is easily identified, but how he fools people is subtle and often surprising.

Should we be discouraged to be living in these turbulent times? No. As Jesus tells us, there is reason to rejoice. “Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.” Luke 21:28.

Our duty as Christians is the same as always. Keep the faith. Keep our light shining in a darkening world. And occupy until the Lord comes. 

Author Interview With TC Avey

Today, I have the privilege of welcoming Christian author, TC Avey, to discuss her recent book, “The Precipice: When Everything We Know Ends.” Her honesty and passion about Christianity and where we’re headed spiritually and as a nation shines through her writing.  

Having read the book as her editor, I consider it one of the most eye-opening books for Christians on the market today. A collection of short stories with futuristic settings, most are plausible in our current world situation. Following each short story is a list of discussion questions and reality checks to help the reader explore their belief system. This book would make a great small group or Bible study resource.

Welcome, TC. First, I’d like to ask what led you to write “The Precipice?”

One day I sat in church and wondered how I would react if someone threatened my life if I refused to recant my belief in Christ. Honestly, I’m not sure how I would react. I’d like to think I’d be brave. Men and women die for Christ every day, but I’m not so sure I’m that strong. Living in America, I feel safe. But I cannot assume I will always have the right to “freedom of religion.”

What would I do?

That question plagued me. Especially as I read more and more news stories forcing me to believe such a reality isn’t as farfetched as many would like to believe. With these thoughts in mind, I sat down and wrote my book.

Your book leaves people with a great deal to mull over. What do you hope people will take away from reading your stories?

I hope they realize life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are not guaranteed. Not for Americans or citizens of any nation. The only One who can keep such a promise is God.
2 Cor 3:17 tells us, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”

God does not lie. Therefore, it is imperative people build their lives—hopes, dreams, everything—upon Him. A shallow relationship with Him will have difficulty standing when the winds of adversity blow like a tornado (Matt 7:24-29). Only those with deep roots will thrive (Matt 13:1-22).

One must begin today to place their trust in Christ alone.

Why do you think some Christians are hesitant to discuss end times?

There’s no simple answer to this. Each person is different. But in general, I think part of it is fear—few like thinking the world is going to end—and part is lack of knowledge. The Bible has numerous Scriptures about the End Times, but there’s no formula for cracking when it’s going to happen. The Bible says only God knows the hour He will return for His children.

Also, there’s great debate within the Christian community about WHEN Christ will call His children home—how much pain and suffering we will endure at the hands of the anti-Christ.

Despite all this, I believe it is vital Christians acknowledge the world will one day end. I have no clue when that time will be. But I can trust God and follow what I believe He is revealing to me in His Word. Each person must read His Word, not trust someone else to tell them what it says. Honestly, it really doesn’t matter when He comes. All that matters is that His Bride is ready and carrying out His work—the Great Commission.

We need to stop worrying, and arguing, among ourselves about issues such as pre-tribulation vs. post-tribulation and focus on sharing the Gospel with the Lost.

Our lives are not our own. We were purchased at a price. It’s time Christians begin realizing this and go about their Father’s business.

How did you research the Reality Checks in your book?

The Reality Checks are short summaries of Modern Events transpiring around the globe. Some regard technology, while others focus on infringements of people’s rights, and others tell about persecuted Christians.

I have a few sources I trust and read on a regular basis. But I don’t take what they say at face value. I try to have two-three sources back up any story. I especially like when I can get sources from opposing “sides” telling a story, not only is that interesting, but it paints a more complete picture.

The references I used are at the end of my book. If you go through them, you will discover even more references and newer stories about these events.

Knowledge, technology, civilizations, and news stories are ever changing. One must make an intentional effort to stay up-to-date or they will be swept away by others who are “in the know” and are navigating the winds of change to their advantage.

The only thing that never changes is God.

How can people get more involved with current events?

Be intentional. Few have the time, or desire, to be informed about the world around them. Also, it can be VERY difficult to know who to believe. Media bias and flat out lies can make it confusing and frustrating. I encourage people to find someone in the media they trust and listen/read that person. When they discuss something you find interesting, don’t just take off with it. Make the effort to look into it further. At least, get it backed up by one other source.

How do you recommend people do research?

As I mentioned above, take the time to read a story from a few different sources. When stories provide links, follow those links. Go back to the original source whenever possible. Like the Bible, you must go to the source and not let anyone else interpret something for you. When reading a history book, whenever possible, read the original (or as close to it as you can get) documents and not a publication that professors have built upon year after year—slowly and gradually distorting original meaning.

Thanks for sharing some insight into your writing process and about your book, TC. More information about TC’s writing, her blog, and how to purchase her book is listed below. 

TC Avey is a Christian devoted to God, family, and friends. She is passionate about encouraging Christians to live a life dedicated to Christ as well as helping them understand the importance of preserving our national freedoms through knowledge and love. She blogs at Wisdom of a Fool. You can also follow her on Twitter. Her book, The Precipice: When Everything We Know Ends, is available for $2.99 on Amazon. She plans a companion study guide in the future.

Laura Hodges Poole is a freelance writer with dozens of articles, devotions, and short stories in publication. She is a 2014 ACFW Genesis semi-finalist and a 2012 RWA Emily finalist in Christian fiction. Laura is also an Associate Editor with Christian Devotions ministry, as well as a ghostwriter/collaborator. Her passion is encouraging others in their Christian walk through her blog, "A Word of Encouragement." She may be contacted at laurapoole565@gmail.com. Follow her on Twitter @ Laura_Poole.