Today’s
Scripture: 2 John 1:7-9
“Many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not
acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is the deceiver and the
antichrist…Anyone who goes too far and does not abide in the teaching of
Christ, does not have God; the one who abides in the teaching, he has both the
Father and the Son.”
Words
of Devotion
John declares this straightforward truth: “Many
deceivers have gone out into the world.” He also teaches us how to recognize
these “deceivers.” Although there are many possible indications, he summarizes
their identity with one phrase: “those who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as
coming in the flesh.”
There can be no simpler statement. In short, the entire test is based on the
person and ministry of Jesus Christ. If we want to know the truth about a
person’s faith and whether or not they are genuine and trustworthy or a
“deceiver,” we simply need to know their attitude toward Jesus.
This test does not just mean a recognition that Jesus lived. Many skeptics,
doubters, and deceivers acknowledge that He lived. However, they question His
character and nature. They deny that He was God. They doubt His miracles and
the supernatural power He demonstrated. They reject the fact that He was raised
from the dead and that He still lives.
In simple terms, the test we should apply encompasses all of these aspects of
Jesus’ life and ministry. Those who fail to stand on these truths reveal their
true character. They have chosen to misinterpret Jesus’ life and ministry,
twisting the evidence according to their own perspective. Their goal is not to
serve God.
Today, make sure that you have made a firm commitment to follow Jesus. Don’t
waver or let your mind be clouded by doubts. Declare that Jesus is your Lord,
and seek to serve Him. Make Him the foundation of your life. Be on guard
against deception.
Today's
Prayer: Dear
Lord Jesus, I trust my life to You. I know that You died and rose again. Thank
You that You are alive. Help me to serve You. In Your name Amen
I enjoyed your devotional today.
ReplyDeleteJust checking back for any new posts you may have written.
I’ve been a follower on your blog for a while now and would like to invite you to visit and perhaps follow me back. Sorry I took so long for the invitation.