How can we guard against deception like in Matthew 28:12 in our lives? Matthew 28:12—A Snapshot of Deception “ And after the chief priests had met with the elders and formed a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money ” (Matthew 28:12). • Religious leaders rejected clear evidence of Jesus’ resurrection. • They crafted a false narrative and bribed witnesses to spread it. • The soldiers accepted payment and became partners in deceit. Recognizing the Roots of Deception • Love of reputation (John 12:43) • Fear of losing power or influence (John 11:48) • Greed—“the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10) • Willful rejection of truth—“they exchanged the truth of God for a lie” (Romans 1:25) God’s Safeguards Against Being Misled • The Word: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). • The Spirit: “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). • Discernment: “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits” (1 John 4:1). • Armor of God: “Stand firm then… with the belt of truth buckled around your waist” (Ephesians 6:14). • Godly community: “Walk with the wise and become wise” (Proverbs 13:20). Practical Ways to Guard Your Heart • Daily Scripture intake—read, study, memorize, and meditate (Joshua 1:8). • Compare every teaching with Scripture like the Bereans did (Acts 17:11). • Pray for wisdom (James 1:5) and quick conviction when error surfaces (Psalm 139:23-24). • Keep short accounts with God; unconfessed sin dulls spiritual discernment (Psalm 32:3-5). • Cultivate humility—be willing to change when God’s Word corrects you (James 1:21-22). • Watch your influences: books, media, friendships, teachers (Colossians 2:8). • Practice honesty in small things; integrity in minor matters strengthens you for larger tests (Luke 16:10). Warning Signs We’re Starting to Drift • Growing discomfort with clear passages of Scripture. • Justifying small compromises as “not a big deal.” • Preferring the approval of people over the approval of God (Galatians 1:10). • Neglecting fellowship, prayer, or Scripture—making room for other voices to dominate. Encouragement to Stand Firm “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). Cling to truth, stay alert, and rely on the Spirit’s help. Deception can be loud and well-funded, but God’s Word lights the path and never fails. |
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