Chapter 6—Beware the Counterfeits
This Is the Test
“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to
this word, it is because there is no light in them” (
Isaiah 8:20
). The
people of God are directed to the Scriptures as their safeguard against
the influence of false teachers and the delusive power of spirits of
darkness. Satan employs every possible device to prevent men from
obtaining a knowledge of the Bible; for its plain utterances reveal
his deceptions. At every revival of God’s work the prince of evil is
aroused to more intense activity; he is now putting forth his utmost
efforts for a final struggle against Christ and His followers. The last
great delusion is soon to open before us. Antichrist is to perform his
marvelous works in our sight. So closely will the counterfeit resemble
the true that it will be impossible to distinguish between them except
by the Holy Scriptures. By their testimony every statement and every
miracle must be tested. [
The Great Controversy, 593
.]
Why Aren’t Miracles Enough?
The man who makes the working of miracles the test of his faith
will find that Satan can, through a species of deceptions, perform
wonders that will appear to be genuine miracles. [
Selected Messages
2:52
.]
Satan is a cunning worker, and he will bring in subtle fallacies to
darken and confuse the mind and root out the doctrines of salvation.
Those who do not accept the Word of God just as it reads, will be
snared in his trap. [
Ibid.
]
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Evil angels are upon our track every moment.... They assume new
ground and work marvels and miracles in our sight....
Some will be tempted to receive these wonders as from God. The
sick will be healed before us. Miracles will be performed in our
sight. Are we prepared for the trial which awaits us when the lying
wonders of Satan shall be more fully exhibited? Will not many souls
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