How can we discern truth from deception, as seen in 2 Chronicles 18:20? setting the scene 2 Chronicles 18 records King Ahab seeking prophetic approval for war while King Jehoshaphat requests a word from a true prophet. Micaiah reveals a heavenly council scene: “Then a spirit came forward, stood before the LORD, and said, ‘I will entice him.’ ‘By what means?’ asked the LORD.” (2 Chronicles 18:20) God permits a lying spirit to expose the hearts of those who already prefer deception. This moment raises the question: How do we, today, discern truth from deception? why discernment matters • Deception can come wrapped in religious packaging (vv. 9–11) • Lives, decisions, and destinies hinge on whom we believe (v. 34) • Scripture warns that “even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14–15) principles for discerning truth • Anchor everything to God’s revealed Word – “Your word is truth.” (John 17:17) – The Bereans were called noble because they “examined the Scriptures daily to see if these teachings were true.” (Acts 17:11) • Compare messages, not messengers’ popularity – Ahab’s 400 prophets were unanimous yet wrong (vv. 5, 12). – Majority consensus never overrides divine revelation. • Test the spirit behind the message – “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” (1 John 4:1) – Look for alignment with Christ’s character (John 14:6) and the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23). • Watch for motives—both yours and theirs – Ahab wanted affirmation, not truth (v. 7). – Ask: Am I seeking God’s will, or justification for my own plans? (Proverbs 3:5–6) • Seek God for wisdom – “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God.” (James 1:5) – Prayerful dependence tunes the heart to recognize God’s voice. guardrails God gives us 1. The written Word • “All Scripture is God-breathed … so that the man of God may be complete.” (2 Timothy 3:16–17) • Daily intake trains our instincts (Hebrews 5:14). 2. The indwelling Spirit • “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13) 3. The body of Christ • Wise counselors help expose blind spots (Proverbs 11:14). • Church discipline safeguards doctrine (Titus 1:9). 4. The armor of God • “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist … take up the shield of faith.” (Ephesians 6:14-16) warning signs of deception • Flattery that feeds pride (v. 5) • Truth mixed with error (Genesis 3:1-5) • Pressure to act quickly without reflection (2 Chronicles 18:11-12) • Diminishing or twisting Scripture (Matthew 4:6-7) • Promises that bypass the cross—ease without repentance (Jeremiah 6:14) building a lifestyle of truth-seeking • Cultivate regular, contextual Bible study—know the Author’s voice before deceptions arise. • Memorize and meditate on key passages; Scripture on the tongue sharpens inner discernment (Psalm 119:11). • Welcome correction; humility opens the door for course adjustments (Psalm 141:5). • Practice obedience to what you already know; light obeyed brings more light (John 7:17). • Observe outcomes: truth produces freedom and life, deception yields bondage and death (John 8:32; Proverbs 14:12). living it out Just as Micaiah’s lone voice pierced the fog of flattering prophecy, believers today can stand on unchanging truth. As we immerse ourselves in Scripture, rely on the Spirit, and stay accountable within the church, we become people who instinctively recognize falsehood and faithfully follow the One who is “the way and the truth and the life.” (John 14:6) |
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