Tom,

The only thing that made me think that it might refer to false prophets way back in the history of Israel, is the reference to false prophets among the people of Israel in earlier times. I agree that there is not a clear direct context. But it seems to me that otherwise we're left with the question you, Tulipman and Pilgrim discussed and which seems to be difficult to reconcile with the perseverance of the saints. Was just a suggestion in any case.

Johan