We should rightfully fear when we look upon the course of events we see in the times in which we live. These are the last times. It is an evil and dangerous time. It is more difficult to persevere and be saved than in days past. The Lord himself says of our times: “And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.” [Matthew 24:11-12] “When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” [Luke 18:8] We should not take this in the sense that all who are called will be saved, or that the apostasy in our time will only be insignificant. The all-seeing eyes of the Savior observe many who run well for a time, but then deny the faith. Their love grows cold and they come to a horrible end. And he tells us this in his word so that we go about our lives with fear.[1]
[1] Admonition to Fear and Hope at the 50th Anniversary of Synod District Address Minnesota Dakota District 1897 Friedrich Pfotenhauer Translated by Matthew Harrison At Home in the House of My Fathers
