How can believers discern truth from deception as warned in Ezekiel 13:15? Setting the Scene “ “So I will vent My wrath against the wall and against those who plaster it with whitewash, and I will tell you that the wall is gone and so are those who whitewashed it.” ” (Ezekiel 13:15) The Picture behind the Verse • A flimsy wall—human schemes, empty promises • Whitewash—smooth religious talk that hides cracks • God’s response—exposes and removes both the wall and the whitewashers Why Discernment Matters • False security collapses when God’s truth tests it • Lives rest on what they believe; deceptions endanger souls Core Principles for Discerning Truth • Return to Scripture — “All Scripture is God-breathed …” (2 Timothy 3:16-17) — Measure every claim by the written Word, not by charisma or majority opinion • Test the Spirits — “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits …” (1 John 4:1) — Ask: Does this teaching align with Christ’s person, work, and commands? • Examine the Fruit — “By their fruit you will recognize them.” (Matthew 7:15-16) — Look for holiness, humility, love, and obedience in the messenger’s life • Depend on the Holy Spirit — “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13) — Prayerful, Spirit-led reading of Scripture sharpens spiritual sight • Cultivate Berean Habits — “They … examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” (Acts 17:11) — Regular, thoughtful study guards against smooth-talking error Spotting “Whitewash” in Today’s World • Messages promising blessing without repentance • Teachings that minimize sin or redefine it • Prophecies driven by personal gain or political expediency • “New revelations” that contradict the plain sense of the Bible Staying Anchored in the Word • Daily reading—keep the full counsel of God fresh in mind • Memorization—store truth where deception can’t reach • Sound fellowship—submit to biblically faithful leaders and accountable community • Historical faith—learn from trusted teachers across church history Living Out Discernment Daily • Abide in Christ’s words—“If you abide in My word … you will know the truth.” (John 8:31-32) • Speak truth in love—correct gently, guard unity around the gospel • Walk uprightly—personal integrity authenticates your own message • Wait patiently—time and testing reveal whether any wall stands or crumbles Holding to these practices keeps the “whitewash” off our walls and our feet firmly planted on the everlasting foundation of God’s unchanging Word. |
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