The New Pope, a New Name, and the Old Deception

Today: May 8, 2025, white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel once again, and the world welcomed Pope Leo XIV—formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost—as the new head of the Roman Catholic Church. Hailing from Chicago, Leo XIV is the first American pope, and his election has stirred excitement among Catholics worldwide.

But for those who know their Bible and follow the Lord Jesus Christ according to the gospel preached by Paul, this event is not a spiritual victory—it is yet another chapter in the long-standing counterfeit system that Scripture warned would exalt itself above God’s truth (2 Thessalonians 2:3–4).

Who Is Pope Leo XIV?

Pope Leo XIV is a member of the Augustinian Order, with a background in missionary work in Peru and prior leadership over the Vatican office responsible for appointing bishops. By choosing the name “Leo,” he signals allegiance to Pope Leo XIII, who is famous for the 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum, a foundational text in Catholic social teaching.

On the surface, this may seem noble and justified (e.g., championing justice, unity, and inclusion), but behind the curtain, it is a dangerous mix of humanism, religious tradition, and theological error.

What This Means for Roman Catholics

For Roman Catholics, the new pope brings a renewed sense of hope. Many believe he will continue Pope Francis’ emphasis on social justice, inclusion, and environmental concern. But herein lies the problem:

“Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.” —2 Timothy 3:5

The Roman Church continues to reject the authority of God’s preserved Word (KJV), replace the finished work of Christ with manmade sacraments, and exalt human authority in the form of the papacy. The office of the pope is built upon tradition, not truth; institution, not inspiration; and ritual, not redemption.

Roman Catholics may feel religiously satisfied—but they are spiritually deceived, trusting in a system that offers no assurance of salvation and preaches another gospel (Galatians 1:6–9).

What This Means for Bible-Believing Christians

For true born-again Christians—those saved by grace through faith in the gospel of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:1–4)—the rise of Leo XIV is not a turning point, but a warning light.

This moment is a reminder that the great counterfeit is still growing, gaining prestige and global influence. The man who now wears the title “Holy Father” (a name Jesus reserved for God alone – John 17:11) sits in a temple of religion claiming to represent Christ, while leading millions away from Him.

It is also a call to action. As the world bows to another man in robes, we must lift up the risen Savior and preach the only gospel that saves. The deception grows, but so must the truth.

The Power—and Danger—of a Name

The naming of a pope is not random. It’s not just about legacy; it’s about identity and worship.

Throughout Scripture, God gives names—Abram to Abraham, Saul to Paul—because names represent divine calling and God’s purpose. But every pope names himself, claiming spiritual authority by associating with the so-called greats of Catholic history.

This is more than symbolism—it’s spiritual theft.

“I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another…” —Isaiah 42:8

When popes elevate their name and legacy, they divert glory from God, shifting the Church’s focus from Christ to a lineage of flawed men. Their names become brands. Their deeds become doctrine. And God’s Word is pushed further into obscurity.

The Usurpation of God’s Word and Name

The Bible says:

“Thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.” —Psalm 138:2

But the Roman Catholic system has done the opposite. It magnifies the pope’s name above God’s Word—tradition above Scripture. And in doing so, it pushes the eternal Word of God into the background, making it seem like a relic of the past instead of the living Sword of the Spirit (Hebrews 4:12).

Each papal reign exalts the works of men, while burying the gospel that actually saves. This doesn’t just mislead—it causes God to be forgotten by the very people who claim to represent Him.

“They have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns…” —Jeremiah 2:13

Conclusion: Come Out from Among Them

The election of Pope Leo XIV is not a spiritual victory—it is a strategic move by a false religious empire to maintain its grip on the minds of billions. But for those with eyes to see, this is no time for compromise.

It’s a time to come out from among them (2 Corinthians 6:17), to stand for truth, and to warn others in love and boldness.

The world doesn’t need a pope.

The world needs Jesus Christ—the only name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12).