For false christs and false prophets will arise and will show signs and wonders, with the aim of deceiving, if possible, even the elect.
The danger of false christs and false prophets is great, because they will not come only with empty words, but can present signs and miracles. This teaches that not every extraordinary phenomenon can be a measure of truth. The true measure is the word of God and the true teaching of Jesus. The phrase “If it were possible, even the elect” shows the intensity of deception, but also God’s preserving grace. The elect are in danger in terms of outward testing, but God’s hand keeps them from final deception. The believer must be humble, watchful, and deeply established in the truth.