How can we discern truth when leaders mislead, as seen in Mark 15:11? Setting the Scene “ But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have him release Barabbas to them instead.” (Mark 15:11) The Danger of Misleading Leadership • Spiritual authority can be abused • Crowds are swayed when emotion overrides truth • False narratives gain power when Scripture is ignored (Jeremiah 23:16; 2 Timothy 4:3–4) Why People Follow the Crowd • Desire for immediate relief or benefit (Barabbas promised revolution) • Fear of standing alone (John 12:42–43) • Trust placed in titles rather than in truth (Matthew 23:1–7) Principles for Discerning Truth • Anchor every claim in God’s Word – “All Scripture is God-breathed…” (2 Timothy 3:16) • Measure teaching against the character and words of Jesus (John 14:6) • Test the spirits (1 John 4:1) • Examine the fruit of a leader’s life (Matthew 7:15–20) • Seek counsel from mature believers (Proverbs 11:14) • Maintain humility and willingness to be corrected (James 1:19–21) • Ask God for wisdom; He promises to give it (James 1:5) Scripture Echoes • Bereans verified Paul’s preaching daily (Acts 17:11) • Proverbs warns, “The simple believe every word, but the prudent give thought to their steps.” (Proverbs 14:15) • Jesus: “If you remain in My word…you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31–32) Walking It Out Today • Read and meditate on Scripture consistently • Memorize key passages that guard against deception • Compare cultural claims with biblical absolutes • Surround yourself with believers who love truth more than popularity • Evaluate sermons, books, and podcasts through the lens of Scripture • Stay sensitive to the Spirit’s promptings; He guides into all truth (John 16:13) Encouragement When leaders mislead, Scripture stands firm. Holding fast to the Word, empowered by the Spirit, equips us to recognize error, cling to truth, and stand for Christ—even when the crowd shouts otherwise. |
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