In the last days will good be seen as evil and evil as good?

Question

 

Gramps,

Where in the scriptures does it tell us that in the last days good will be seen as evil and evil as good?

Rich

 

Answer

 

Dear Rich,

In a world increasingly characterized by moral confusion, the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provide a clarion call for clarity and understanding. As society evolves, the inversion of moral truths—where good is often labeled as evil, and evil as good—has emerged as a significant theme in both scripture and modern prophetic teachings. Let’s explores the scriptural foundations, modern-day implications, and the call to discernment amidst these challenging times.

The concept of moral inversion is not merely a contemporary concern; it finds its roots deeply embedded in scripture. In the last days, believers are warned of a time when traditional values will be turned upside down. Prophets, both ancient and modern, have emphasized the importance of recognizing these shifts and maintaining a steadfast commitment to divine principles. By examining key scriptural references and teachings from Church leaders, we can better understand the gravity of this moral inversion and its implications for our lives today.

The prophetic voice of Isaiah provides a stark warning against moral inversion. In Isaiah 5:20, we read, 

Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!

This scripture serves as a clear admonishment against the confusion that arises when society redefines moral truths. 

Similarly, the Book of Mormon echoes this sentiment in 2 Nephi 15:20, reiterating the consequences of moral confusion. These verses collectively highlight the importance of maintaining a clear understanding of good and evil, especially as we navigate the complexities of modern life.

In Moroni 7:6, we find further clarification on the nature of good and evil: 

For behold, God hath said a man being evil cannot do that which is good. 

This verse emphasizes the intrinsic connection between one’s moral state and the actions one takes. As believers, it is crucial to discern not only the actions but also the underlying motivations that may influence moral choices.

In his article “When Evil Appears Good and Good Appears Evil,” Elder Quentin L. Cook articulates the adversary’s cunning tactics to distort moral truths. He warns, 

One of the most cunning aspects of the adversary’s efforts to thwart our Father in Heaven’s plan of happiness is his deceitful teaching that there is no evil influence or devil… his attempt to redefine evil as good and good as evil. 

This inversion is not only a personal struggle but a broader societal shift, as noted by Elder Cook: “This is sometimes called a paradigm shift—when the usual way of thinking about or doing something is replaced by a new and different way” 

Elder Cook also addresses the implications of these inverted values on family and morality. He notes, 

It is fairly common in today’s world, in another paradigm shift, to trumpet alternative choices in a positive way that are in direct conflict with [the Father’s] plan and are unfavorable to marriage and family. (source)

The disintegration of traditional family structures reflects the broader moral decline that is foreseen in the last days.

Elder Neal A. Maxwell, in his talk “Overcome … Even As I Also Overcame,” also addresses the challenges of moral inversion, stating, 

Ours will be a time of great inversion as well as perversion, as some will call good evil and evil good.

This highlights the necessity of being grounded in faith and understanding to navigate a world filled with conflicting messages.

The scriptures and teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provide profound insights into the moral challenges faced in the last days. As believers, it is essential to recognize the inversion of good and evil and to strive for clarity in our understanding of divine principles. The warnings from prophets both ancient and modern serve as vital reminders to remain steadfast in faith and to discern truth from deception. In a world where the lines between good and evil often blur, let us commit to upholding eternal truths and fostering a deeper understanding of God’s plan for our lives.

 

Gramps