Topical Bible: Self-Delusion: Exhibited in Thinking that we should Adhere to Established Wicked Practices

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◄ Self-Delusion: Exhibited in Thinking that we should Adhere to Established Wicked Practices ►

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Self-delusion, particularly in the context of adhering to established wicked practices, is a recurring theme in the Bible. This form of self-deception involves convincing oneself that it is acceptable or even necessary to continue in sinful behaviors simply because they are longstanding or culturally ingrained. The Bible provides numerous examples and warnings against such thinking, emphasizing the importance of aligning one's actions with God's will rather than societal norms.

Old Testament Examples

In the Old Testament, the Israelites frequently struggled with the temptation to follow the idolatrous practices of surrounding nations. Despite clear commandments from God to remain separate and holy, they often fell into the trap of self-delusion, believing that adopting these practices was beneficial or unavoidable. In Jeremiah 7:8-10 , the prophet rebukes the people for their misplaced confidence: "But look, you keep trusting in deceptive words to no avail. Will you steal and murder, commit adultery and perjury, burn incense to Baal, and follow other gods you have not known, and then come and stand before Me in this house, which bears My Name, and say, ‘We are delivered, so we can continue with all these abominations’?"

The account of King Saul also illustrates self-delusion in adhering to wicked practices. In 1 Samuel 15, Saul is commanded to completely destroy the Amalekites and all they possess. However, he spares King Agag and the best of the livestock, rationalizing his disobedience by claiming he intended to sacrifice the animals to the Lord. Samuel confronts Saul in 1 Samuel 15:22-23 , saying, "Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice, and attentiveness is better than the fat of rams. For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance is like the wickedness of idolatry."

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament continues to address the issue of self-delusion, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus warns against the dangers of following human traditions over God's commandments. In Mark 7:8-9 , He says, "You have disregarded the commandment of God to keep the tradition of men. He went on to say, 'You neatly set aside the command of God to maintain your own tradition.'"

The Apostle Paul also speaks to the issue of self-delusion in Romans 12:2 , urging believers not to conform to the patterns of this world: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." Paul emphasizes the need for a renewed mind that discerns God's will rather than blindly following established practices that are contrary to His commands.

Warnings and Exhortations

Throughout Scripture, there are numerous warnings against the self-delusion of adhering to wicked practices. Proverbs 14:12 cautions, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." This verse highlights the danger of relying on human judgment and tradition rather than seeking divine guidance.

The Bible also exhorts believers to examine themselves and their practices continually. In 2 Corinthians 13:5 , Paul advises, "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Can’t you see for yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you actually fail the test?" This self-examination is crucial in identifying and rejecting any practices that are inconsistent with a life of faith.

Conclusion

The Bible consistently warns against the self-delusion of adhering to established wicked practices. Through the examples of Israel, the teachings of Jesus, and the exhortations of the apostles, believers are called to reject societal norms that conflict with God's commandments and to pursue a life of holiness and obedience.

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Jeremiah 44:17
But we will certainly do whatever thing goes forth out of our own mouth, to burn incense to the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings to her, as we have done, we, and our fathers, our kings, and our princes, in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem: for then had we plenty of victuals, and were well, and saw no evil.
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