How can we avoid being deceived as warned in Matthew 24:4? The Warning from Jesus “Jesus answered, ‘See to it that no one deceives you.’” (Matthew 24:4) Recognize the Reality of Deception • Jesus gives this command first in His Olivet discourse, signaling that deception will intensify as history moves toward His literal return (Matthew 24:5,11,24). • Because Scripture is accurate in every detail, we take this warning at face value—deception is real, widespread, and spiritual in nature (1 Timothy 4:1). Build an Unshakeable Foundation • Daily, systematic reading of the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27). • Memorize key passages that anchor essential doctrines (Psalm 119:11). • Study in context—compare Scripture with Scripture (Isaiah 28:10). • Trust the literal, plain sense first; symbolism is interpreted by the text itself. Stay Filled with the Holy Spirit • “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13) • Walk habitually by the Spirit to avoid flesh-driven gullibility (Galatians 5:16). Discern through Testing • “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” (1 John 4:1) • Evaluate teaching against the written Word; the Spirit never contradicts Scripture. Remain Connected to Sound Teaching • Devote yourself to the apostles’ doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer (Acts 2:42). • Christ gave pastors and teachers “so we may no longer be infants…tossed by waves and carried about by every wind of teaching.” (Ephesians 4:11-14) Watch for Common Tactics of Deceivers • Masquerading as servants of righteousness (2 Corinthians 11:13-15). • Adding to or subtracting from God’s Word (Deuteronomy 4:2; Revelation 22:18-19). • Promising freedom while enslaving people to sin (2 Peter 2:19). • Elevating experience or tradition above Scripture (Colossians 2:8). Live in Obedience and Holiness • “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” (James 1:22) • Pursue a lifestyle set apart to God; compromise blurs discernment (1 Peter 1:13-16). Guard Your Heart and Mind • “Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life.” (Proverbs 4:23) • Dwell on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable (Philippians 4:8). • Limit intake of sources that oppose or twist biblical truth. Keep Your Eyes on Christ’s Return • Alert anticipation fuels vigilance: “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” (Matthew 24:42) • Hope fixed on His literal coming motivates purity and steadfastness (1 John 3:2-3). Summary Steps to Avoid Deception 1. Immerse yourself in God’s inerrant Word. 2. Depend daily on the Holy Spirit’s guidance. 3. Measure every message by Scripture. 4. Stay planted in a biblically faithful church community. 5. Cultivate a holy, watchful lifestyle centered on Christ’s promised return. |
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