Definition: And then if any man shall say to you, Lo, here [is] Christ; or, lo, [he is] there; believe [him] not:

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Matthew 13:21. It’s a really important and somewhat mysterious passage in the Bible. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse is about belief and faith. It's telling us to not blindly accept something as true just because someone says it to you. It’s asking us to actively believe in Jesus Christ. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And then if any man shall say to you, Lo, here [is] Christ…” – This is a direct question. It's saying, “If someone tells you that they know Jesus is coming, or that he is present with them, don’t just accept it as truth.” It's emphasizing the importance of genuine faith. “…Lo, he is there…” – This is a key phrase. "Lo" means "there." It’s like saying “look!” or “notice!”. The verse is urging us to actively observe and notice Christ’s presence. “Believe him not:” – This is the crucial part. It's telling us not to believe someone just because they tell you it. It’s a warning against being fooled or misled. It’s saying, “Don't blindly accept what someone says; examine it critically.” What does this mean for us today? This verse is often interpreted as a warning about spiritual deception . It suggests that people might try to trick us into believing things that aren’t true – maybe through false promises or manipulation. In short, the verse encourages us to: Think critically: Don’t accept claims at face value. Observe carefully: Look for evidence and truth. Be discerning: Don't be easily swayed by words without questioning them. Important Note: The exact meaning of this passage has been debated throughout history, and there are different interpretations among theologians. But the core message – to actively believe – remains a central part of Christian teaching. --- Do you want me to: Explain it further with examples? Discuss the historical context surrounding this verse?