The Dangers Of Spiritual Sleep In The End Times Series

THE DANGERS OF SPIRITUAL SLEEP IN THE END TIMES

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 25:5-6

Supporting Texts: Romans 13:11, 1 Thessalonians 5:6-8, Ephesians 5:14, Revelation 3:1-3

INTRODUCTION:

The end times are characterised by spiritual apathy, lukewarmness, and distractions. Many believers, though once on fire for God, have gradually slipped into a state of spiritual sleep—unaware, unprepared, and unconcerned about the urgency of the hour. Just like the ten virgins in Matthew 25, all of whom slumbered and slept, spiritual sleep has become a widespread phenomenon even in the Church.

Jesus warned repeatedly that His return would be sudden and unexpected. Those who are spiritually asleep risk missing the call of the Bridegroom and the glorious rapture of the saints. Spiritual sleep dulls discernment, weakens prayer life, and makes one vulnerable to deception and sin.

It is a dangerous time to be asleep spiritually. The signs of the end are all around us. Now, more than ever, the Church must wake up, be alert, and prepare for the return of Christ.

1. SPIRITUAL SLEEP LEADS TO LOSS OF SPIRITUAL ALERTNESS

Many believers have become numb to spiritual realities and are unaware of the devil's devices.

a) Loss of Discernment – When asleep spiritually, one cannot distinguish good from evil (Hebrews 5:14).

b) Prayerlessness – Sleep weakens prayer life, making the believer vulnerable (Luke 22:45-46)

c) Neglect of the Word – Spiritual sleep causes one to lose appetite for Scripture (Psalm 119:105).

d) Carelessness in Conduct – There is no sense of urgency or holiness (1 Peter 1:13-16).

e) Biblical Example: Samson slept and lost his strength when Delilah shaved his hair (Judges 16:19-20).

2. SPIRITUAL SLEEP CAN LEAD TO MISSING DIVINE TIMING

Being asleep spiritually can cause a believer to miss their season of visitation or rapture readiness.

a) Lack of Watchfulness – Those who sleep are not watching for Christ’s return (Mark 13:35-37).

b) Delay in Obedience – Spiritual sleep causes procrastination in doing God’s will (Hebrews 3:15).

c) Missed Opportunities – Divine doors can close suddenly (Matthew 25:10).

d) Unawareness of Prophetic Fulfilment – Sleeping Christians are blind to signs of the times (Luke 12:56).

e) Biblical Example: The five foolish virgins missed the Bridegroom because they were unprepared (Matthew 25:10-12).

3. SPIRITUAL SLEEP MAKES ONE VULNERABLE TO THE ENEMY

A sleeping believer is exposed to satanic attacks, deception, and compromise.

a) The Enemy Sows While Men Sleep – Satan takes advantage of spiritual sleep to plant tares (Matthew 13:25).

b) Compromise Becomes Easy – There is no resistance to temptation (1 Corinthians 10:12).

c) False Doctrines Penetrate Easily – A sleepy church swallows every wind of doctrine (Ephesians 4:14).

d) Sin Becomes Tolerated – Spiritual drowsiness leads to moral and doctrinal decay (Romans 13:13).

e) Biblical Example: Eutychus fell from the window and died while sleeping during Paul’s sermon (Acts 20:9).

4. SPIRITUAL SLEEP HINDERS REVIVAL AND KINGDOM IMPACT

God cannot use a sleeping church to fulfil His end-time purpose.

a) Revival Demands Vigilance – Awake people bring revival (2 Chronicles 7:14).

b) Evangelism Is Neglected – A sleeping church forgets the Great Commission (Mark 16:15).

c) Powerlessness in Ministry – Spiritual slumber drains spiritual authority (Acts 1:8).

d) Heavenly Rewards Are Lost – Sleepy saints lose their crowns (Revelation 3:11).

e) Biblical Example: Jonah slept during the storm until the sailors woke him to pray (Jonah 1:5-6).

CONCLUSION:

Now is not the time to sleep but to be spiritually awake. The end is nearer than ever. Jesus is coming soon, and only those who are watchful and ready will go with Him. The dangers of spiritual sleep are real—it steals our oil, dulls our sense of urgency, and can cost us eternity.

Let us cry out to God to awaken us from every form of spiritual slumber. Let our lamps be trimmed, our hearts on fire, and our ears attuned to the voice of the Bridegroom. May we not be found among those who say, “Give us of your oil,” but among the wise virgins who entered into the marriage.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, awaken me from every form of spiritual slumber.

2. Father, rekindle my hunger for Your Word and presence.

3. Holy Spirit, keep me spiritually alert and watchful.

4. Deliver me from distractions that lead to spiritual sleep.

5. Restore my sensitivity to divine timing and purpose.

6. Empower me to resist every deception of the enemy.

7. Let my lamp be full of oil always.

8. Help me to walk in holiness and obedience.

9. Use me for revival and end-time harvest.

10. Let me not miss the rapture, Lord.