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This interpretation is supported by Paul who said, 'in the last days perilous times will come' (2 Tim. 3:1). Paul describes how immorality will abound and people will be 'always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth' (2 Tim. 3:7). These words suggest that the tribulation is a time when humankind does not know where to turn to 'acquire spiritual knowledge and apprehend the Word of God' (Certitude 32). (94:1) The cause of this condition, Baha'u'llah indicates, is the decline of the influence of religion and the coming to power of corrupt religious leaders 'who lead after their own whims and desire' (ibid. 29). He goes on to state, 'Such is the sway of their desires, that the lamp of conscience and reason hath been quenched in their hearts' (ibid. 29). (94:2) Baha'u'llah describes such leaders as 'voracious beasts' who have 'gathered and preyed upon the carrion of the souls of men' (ibid. 31).These words of Baha'u'llah suggest that Paul's prophecy has been fulfilled: (94:3) For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. (Acts 20:25, emphasis added) (94:4) Moreover, Christ states:-- Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord', shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, 'Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?' And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me you who practice lawlessness!' (Matt. 7:21-3)
(94:5)
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