In this passage, Jesus is speaking to His disciples about the signs of the end times. He warns them that many will come in His name, falsely claiming to be the Messiah, and will deceive many people. This serves as a cautionary message to all believers to be vigilant and discerning. The warning is not just about the literal appearance of false messiahs, but also about any teachings or movements that might lead people away from the true message of Christ.
The emphasis is on the importance of knowing and understanding the true teachings of Jesus so that believers can recognize and resist falsehoods. This passage encourages Christians to deepen their relationship with God and to seek wisdom and understanding through prayer and study of the Scriptures. By doing so, they can remain firm in their faith and avoid being led astray by deceptive influences. It is a call to be alert and to hold fast to the truth, ensuring that one's faith is grounded in the authentic message of Jesus Christ.