Understanding the Warning of Matthew 24:12 in Contemporary Context
Biblical Context: The Prophetic Words of Jesus
The phrase “people’s hearts are waxed cold” is drawn from Matthew 24:12, part of the Olivet Discourse where Jesus outlines the signs of the end times. In this discourse, Jesus warns that the increase of wickedness and lawlessness will lead to a chilling effect on human hearts, causing love to diminish. This metaphor serves as both a cautionary note and a call to vigilance for believers.
What Does “Wax Cold” Mean?
The term “wax cold” denotes a gradual cooling or decline, rather than an abrupt loss. It evokes the image of something once warm and vibrant, slowly losing its heat and vigor over time. In spiritual terms, it reflects a weakening of love, faith, and devotion. This process is insidious, often unnoticed until the heart has become distant and indifferent, both to God and to others.
Increase of Wickedness in Modern Society
Jesus’ warning about the increase of wickedness is strikingly relevant today. The modern world bears witness to escalating acts of lawlessness, moral relativism, and a proliferation of behaviors that desensitize the human heart. From pervasive digital distractions to the normalization of unethical practices, the environment is rife with influences that pull individuals away from faith and virtue.
Social media, for instance, can amplify negativity, sow division, and foster superficial connections, leaving individuals feeling isolated and disillusioned. Injustice, both systemic and personal, erodes trust and compassion. Meanwhile, materialism and selfish ambition often overshadow selfless love, creating an atmosphere where genuine care for others struggles to thrive.
The Impact on Believers
The chilling of love is not confined to non-believers; it is a poignant warning for the faithful. Even those who once embraced fervent faith and vibrant love for God can find themselves affected. The constant exposure to negativity, temptation, and societal pressures can lead to spiritual complacency or apathy.
This cooling manifests in various ways: diminished prayer life, reduced engagement with scripture, and a lack of enthusiasm for community and worship. Relationships with others also suffer, as empathy and genuine concern give way to indifference or guarded self-interest.
Endurance: The Antidote to Waxing Cold
Matthew 24:13 provides a glimmer of hope: “But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” This verse emphasizes the necessity of steadfastness and perseverance. It is a call to remain vigilant, to actively nurture one’s love for God and others despite the surrounding wickedness.
Endurance requires intentional action—regular prayer, engagement with scripture, and participation in a faith community. It involves resisting the pull of apathy by practicing acts of kindness and service, fostering connections that reflect God’s love.
Practical Steps to Keep Love Burning
To counter the gradual cooling of the heart, here are some practical steps:
· Stay Rooted in Faith: Regular prayer and scripture study are vital to keeping one’s love for God alive and well.
· Engage in Community: Surround yourself with fellow believers who encourage and inspire faithfulness.
· Practice Empathy and Service: Actively seek opportunities to serve others, especially those in need, as a tangible expression of love.
· Guard Your Heart: Be mindful of influences—media, relationships, or habits—that may contribute to spiritual coldness.
· Seek Accountability: Foster relationships where you can be held accountable for your spiritual and moral growth.
Conclusion
The warning in Matthew 24:12 is as much a reality check as it is a beacon of hope. While the increase of wickedness may chill the hearts of many, believers are called to resist this tide with endurance and faith. By remaining steadfast, nurturing love for God and others, and guarding against the subtle erosion of devotion, it is possible to keep the fire of love burning brightly even in a dark and cold world.
Let the lessons of scripture inspire us to be vigilant, compassionate, and enduring, so that our hearts remain warm with love in an age where it is so desperately needed.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 