Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Matthew 24:23

"Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is the Christ, or, Here; believe [it] not." — Matthew 24:23 (ASV)

Empty-headed credulity is as great an enemy of true faith as chronic skepticism. Christian faith involves the sober responsibility of neither believing lies nor trusting impostors. As false christs and false prophets proliferate (v.24), so will their heralds (v.23). Jesus’ disciples must not be deceived, even by spectacular signs and miracles. The impostor is perennial (Revelation 13:13). “If that were possible” refers to the intent of the deceivers: they intend to deceive, if possible, even the elect—though Jesus makes no comment on how ultimately successful such attacks will be. That Jesus tells these things in advance (v.25) not only warns and strengthens his followers (cf. Jn 16:4) but also authenticates him (cf. Dt 13:1–4).