In 2 Timothy 3:1-5, the Apostle Paul warns of the perilous times that will characterize the last days:"But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; avoid such men as these."
While this passage speaks broadly about the state of humanity, it serves as a sobering reminder for believers: even within the Church and prophecy community, the enemy seeks to sow seeds of division. Divisive spirits often target the fellowship of believers, exploiting non-salvific and extra-biblical issues to fracture the body of Christ.
This article explores the rise of these divisive spirits, particularly within the prophecy community, and calls for discernment, humility, and unity as we anticipate the Lord's return.Watchers at War: Divisive Spirits in the Last Days
The Rise of Divisive Spirits
Jesus warned that division would increase in the last days, even among His followers. In Matthew 24:10-12, He said:"At that time many will fall away and will betray one another and hate one another. Many false prophets will arise and will mislead many. Because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will grow cold."
While the prophecy community should be a source of encouragement and edification (1 Thessalonians 5:11), it has become, at times, a breeding ground for division. Debates over the timing of the Rapture, interpretations of symbolic imagery, and even speculative theories about current events have driven wedges between brothers and sisters in Christ.
This spirit of division is not from God but is a tactic of the enemy, who seeks to disrupt unity in the body of Christ. James 3:14-16 reminds us:"But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing."
Extra-Biblical and Non-Salvific Issues
Many divisions stem from debates over issues that are not explicitly addressed in Scripture or are not essential to salvation. Examples include:
The Timing of the Rapture: While the pre-tribulation Rapture view is well-supported biblically, some believers favor mid-tribulation, post-tribulation, or pre-wrath views. While such discussions can be fruitful, they often devolve into accusatory language and prideful attitudes.
The Identity of the Antichrist: Speculations about who the Antichrist might be or where he will arise are interesting but ultimately speculative. Scripture encourages us to watch and be prepared, not to engage in endless debates (Matthew 24:42).
Current Events: Some disagreements arise over whether certain events fulfill specific prophecies. While it is wise to discern the times (Matthew 16:3), divisive arguments over interpretations detract from the greater mission of proclaiming the Gospel.
 Politics: Disagreements over political preferences (especially the 2024 U.S. Presidential election) can become a source of unnecessary division, detracting from the gospel's central message and the unity Christ calls believers to maintain.Â
These issues, while fascinating and worth discussing, do not impact the core tenets of Christianity: salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection, and the promise of eternal life (Ephesians 2:8-9). When believers elevate non-salvific matters to a place of primary importance, they risk falling into pride and contention.
The Role of False Teachers and Accusers
Another factor contributing to division is the influence of false teachers and those who accuse fellow believers. While discernment is essential, some individuals use discernment ministries as platforms to attack others in the prophecy community. This behavior aligns more with the accuser of the brethren, Satan (Revelation 12:10), than with Christ’s call to edify and build up.
Titus 3:9-11 instructs us:"But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and strife and disputes about the Law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. Reject a factious man after a first and second warning, knowing that such a man is perverted and is sinning, being self-condemned."
We must distinguish between exposing heresy and fostering unnecessary division over disputable matters. Genuine heresy denies core doctrines of the faith, such as the deity of Christ or salvation by grace. Extra-biblical speculation, while worth examining, should not become a litmus test for orthodoxy.
A Spirit of Humility and Love
Scripture repeatedly calls believers to pursue humility, and love within the body of Christ. Paul exhorts us in Ephesians 4:1-3:"Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."
When we encounter disagreements, particularly on prophetic matters, our response should be marked by grace and humility. Galatians 5:14-15 warns:"For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ But if you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another."
Practical Steps to Combat Division
Stay Grounded in Scripture:
We must prioritize biblical truth over personal opinions or speculative interpretations. Acts 17:11 commends the Bereans for examining the Scriptures daily to see whether things were true.
Exercise Discernment:
Not every debate or disagreement requires engagement. Proverbs 26:4-5 advises:
"Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will also be like him. Answer a fool as his folly deserves, that he not be wise in his own eyes."
Pray for Unity:
Pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the prophecy community and the Church toward unity and humility. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to bring our concerns to God with thanksgiving.
Focus on the Gospel:
Let the message of salvation in Christ remain central to all discussions. Romans 1:16 reminds us:
"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek."
Avoid Personal Attacks:
In debates, focus on ideas, not individuals. Colossians 4:6 instructs:
"Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person."
Remember the Enemy’s Schemes:
The true battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of darkness (Ephesians 6:12). Division within the Church is one of Satan’s most effective strategies.
Conclusion: Standing United in Christ
As we approach the culmination of history and anticipate the Lord’s return, the prophecy community must strive for unity. Divisive spirits thrive when believers lose sight of the Gospel and elevate non-salvific issues above Christ’s command to love one another (John 13:34-35).
May we heed Paul’s exhortation in Romans 15:5-6:"Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus, so that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."
In these perilous times, let us stand firm, united in faith and love, as we eagerly await the blessed hope of Christ’s glorious appearing (Titus 2:13). By doing so, we will glorify God and fulfill our mission as His ambassadors in a divided and dying world.