Text: 1 Timothy 4:1

Further Reading: 1 Timothy 4:1-4

Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons

1 Timothy 4:1 NKJV

MESSAGE

In our Christian walk, we must desire a strong personal relationship with the Holy Spirit. This is because many false prophets are going out there to deceive many, including the very elect. It is no doubt that they are wolves dressed in sheep’s clothing. Some are strong witches and wizards dressed in nice suits and speaking Bible language.

The aim of such is to deceive God’s people and introduce them to erroneous doctrine. They are the people who say gain is godliness and if a man is poor then such does not have the life of Christ (1 Timothy 6:5). They are the ones the Bible referred to as the enemy of the cross.

For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things.
Philippians 3:18‭-‬19 NKJV

These false teachers under the spirit of devils accommodate sin and look down on holy living. Today we see them supporting homosexuality, transgenderism, and abortion rights, and even claiming that Jesus may not be the only way but one of the many ways.

Don’t forget this thumb rule: and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world.
I John 4:3 NKJV

Sometimes, however, some of these spirits pretend and disguise themselves to be the real thing. They portray themselves to be messengers of love and peace. But not the peace through the abundant pardon that Christ gave sinners.

They preach grace without repentance. They permit indulgence and speak lightly of the need for a genuine renunciation of sinful ways and turn around to God. When you see anyone preaching and living this way, you can judge that the spirit in him or her is not of God.

Friends, they are everywhere today deceiving true children of God, therefore don’t stand upon your wisdom but on the word of God. You must trust God to help you discern and escape from the traps of these people. Stay connected with God’s word and pray consistently. You will never miss the way by doing so.

REFLECTION

having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!

2 Timothy 3:5 NKJV

Beware of religions that have a form of godliness but deny the Lordship and deity of Christ and the power of His blood.

PRAYER

Father, please don’t let me be victims in he hands of false prophets. Give me sharp discernment.