Colossians 2:8
“Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.”
Caring parents teach their kids the phrase “stranger danger.” It’s not that they’re paranoid or want them to be afraid of everybody, just cautious and safe. Spiritually speaking, adults should adopt that same level of caution. When new people come into our lives, it is wise to get to know their doctrine before we form spiritual bonds.
Believer, it is important to be on guard. False teachers don’t say, “Hey, I’m here to lead you astray.” Heresy never presents itself like that. It’s more like a virus—small, easily shared, and sometimes deadly.
Viruses need a living organism to survive, making every human just another opportunity to covertly infiltrate, duplicate, and dominate. Once inside, a virus hijacks the host’s cells and spreads its infection—a tactic that resembles that of false teachers. It’s an ugly word picture, but an effective one.
Doctors say washing your hands is the easiest way to ward off a virus. Water won’t dilute the pathogen, but it doesn’t allow it to stick. Likewise, if you saturate yourself in the whole counsel of God, deception will not stick. You can fight off false doctrine by cleansing your mind and heart with the pure water of the Word of God. Read it, study it, memorize, and pray it into your life. Also, make a point of talking about what you’ve learned with like-minded believers, and you’ll recognize deception for what it truly is—an attack upon your soul.
Awaiting His return,
– Pastor Jack
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