How can we avoid being led astray, according to 1 John 3:7? __Staying Grounded in Truth__ “Little children, let no one deceive you: The one who practices righteousness is righteous, just as Christ is righteous.” (1 John 3:7) __Key Insight: Righteous Practice Is the Safeguard__ • John ties spiritual authenticity to concrete obedience. • A life shaped by Christlike conduct exposes false teaching; empty claims cannot hide behind unrighteous living (1 John 2:29; Titus 1:16). • The verse is both a warning (“let no one deceive you”) and a measuring rod (“practices righteousness”). __Core Ways to Avoid Being Led Astray__ • Cling to Scripture – Psalm 119:11 “My heart’s hiding place.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Equips “for every good work.” • Keep practicing righteousness – James 1:22 “Be doers of the word.” – 1 John 3:10 “Anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God.” • Abide in Christ daily – John 15:4 “Remain in Me, and I will remain in you.” – 1 John 2:28 “Continue in Him, so that…we may be confident.” • Test every teaching – 1 John 4:1 “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits.” – Acts 17:11 Bereans examined “the Scriptures daily.” • Evaluate fruit, not flash – Matthew 7:15-20 “By their fruit you will recognize them.” – Galatians 5:22-25 Spirit-produced character contrasts works of the flesh. • Rely on the Spirit’s anointing – 1 John 2:27 “The anointing you received…teaches you about all things.” • Stay connected to a faithful church family – Hebrews 10:24-25 “Not neglecting to meet together.” – Ephesians 4:11-16 Body life protects from “every wind of doctrine.” __The Fruit Test in Action__ 1. Doctrine: Does the message align with the plain teaching of Scripture? (Galatians 1:8-9) 2. Character: Does the messenger model holiness and humility? (1 Timothy 4:12) 3. Influence: Does following the teaching produce greater love for God and neighbor? (Matthew 22:37-39; John 13:35) __Living It Out__ • Start each day in the Word; let God’s voice shape your thinking before any other voice. • Choose immediate obedience—small acts of righteousness train the heart for larger battles. • Memorize key verses (1 John 3:7; Psalm 119:11) to recall when confusion or temptation arises. • Engage in honest fellowship where brothers and sisters can speak truth in love. • Pray for discernment, expecting the Spirit to illuminate error and confirm truth (John 16:13). __Encouragement for the Journey__ When the world’s voices grow loud, remember John’s steady directive: practice righteousness. Every step of obedient living anchors you to Christ, reveals impostors, and keeps you walking in the light “just as He is righteous.” |
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