A SERIES OF DEVOTIONS BASED ON THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MATTHEW 

STAND FIRM TO THE END 

Matthew 24:9-14 “Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of Me. At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” 

Jesus continued speaking about the end times here in today’s devotional verses. He says the days from now forward will not be easy ones for Christians. That means for you. He says many who at one time profess a faith in Jesus will turn away. They will go on a different path. This will mean within the church, faithfulness to God’s word and the right administration of the sacraments will no longer occur. Love for Jesus “will grow cold.” 

This prophesy of Jesus is being fulfilled at this very moment. Parents and grandparents are in mourning that their children and grandchildren want nothing to do with the church, God’s word, and Jesus Himself. Love of the world has replaced love for Jesus in the hearts of many.   

There is a promise from Jesus in today’s verses. “. . . the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. (see also Revelation 2:10) And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations.” These words are words of assurance to you and all who join you in remaining faithful to Jesus and your Heavenly Father. The Gospel will still be proclaimed and all who believe in Jesus who is the heart and center of the Gospel will be saved. Your faith is not in vain! 

Prayer: Holy Spirit, help me to stand firm in my faith in Jesus. In His name. Amen. 

At the name of Jesus Ev’ry knee shall bow,  
Ev’ry tongue confess Him King of glory now.  
“Tis the Father’s pleasure We should call Him Lord,  
Who from the beginning Was the mighty Word. 

At His voice creation Sprang at once to sight,  
All the angel faces, All the hosts of light,  
Thrones and bright dominions, Stars upon their way,  
All the heav’nly orders In their great array. 

Humbled for a season, To receive a name  
From the lips of sinners Unto whom He came,  
Faithfully He bore it Spotless to the last,  
Brought it back victorious When from death He passed; 

Bore it up triumphant With its human light,  
Through all ranks of creatures To the central height,  
To the throne of Godhead, To the Father’s breast,  
Filled it with the glory Of that perfect rest. 

In your hearts enthrone Him; There let Him subdue  
All that is not holy, All that is not true:  
Crown Him as your captain In temptation’s hour;  
Let His will enfold you In its light and pow’r. 

Christians, this Lord Jesus Shall return again  
In His Father’s glory, With His angel train;  
For all wreaths of empire Meet upon His brow,  
And our hearts confess Him King of glory now. 

Glory then to Jesus, Who, the Prince of light,  
To a world in darkness Brought the gift of sight;  
Praise to God the Father; In the Spirit’s love  
‘Praise we all together Him who reigns above.  

At the Name of Jesus // LSB 512