The difference between a true believer and a false believer is the fact that one perseveres to the end while the other turns away from Christ. The need for endurance is emphasised in many prophetic writings (Daniel 9:10, Daniel 9:14; Daniel 12:12–13; Revelation 1:3; Revelation 13:9–10; Revelation 14:12; Revelation 16:15; Revelation 22:7, Revelation 22:9).1 Those who belong to Christ will be enabled to endure suffering so that they persevere to the end (Matthew 4:1–11; Matthew 10:24–33; Matthew 19:28–29; Romans 8:18; 1 Corinthians 10:13; 2 Timothy 2:12; 2 Peter 2:9; Revelation 2:26–28).2 At the same time they must make it their aim to persevere (1 Thessalonians 5:9; 2 Timothy 2:10; Hebrews 1:14; Hebrews 9:28; 1 Peter 1:5, 1 Peter 1:9; 2 Peter 1:10–11).
12 And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.