Scriptural Warnings

Scriptural Warnings

Part 5

We continue looking at some caution signs God provides for us in Scripture.

6. Take heed that no one deceive you. (Matt. 24:4)

God's Word tells us of several ways we can easily be deceived:

1) By smooth words and flattering speech. (Rom. 16:17-20; see also Col. 2:4)

2) By a false report. (2 Thess. 2:1-4)

3) By demons and deceiving spirits. ( 1 Tim. 4:1-4) We are called to test the spirits: those that are of God confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh. (1 John 4:1-4)

The key to overcoming deception is to continue constantly learning more of God’s Word. (2 Tim. 3:13-17) In Matt. 4:1-7 we see how important it is to have as complete an understanding of God's word as possible; we need to know not only "it is written," but "it is also written." In 2 Cor. 11:3-4 we see that a key is to not be moved from the simplicity of the gospel.

7. Beware lest your liberty become a stumbling block. (1 Cor. 8:9-13)

As we read in 1 Cor. 6:12, "All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful." Even if we are free to do something, it is wrong to do it if this action is harmful to others. "Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” (Phil. 2:4 )

Jesus spoke in strong language about the consequences for those who intentionally cause others to stumble: Luke 17:1-2.

We will conclude the study by looking at one final warning that, in a sense, sums up all the warnings. We looked at warnings of things to beware within ourselves, and warnings of things to beware outside ourselves. Yet for all of them, the key is how we allow these stumbling blocks to affect us personally. One final warning sums it up:

Take heed to yourselves . (Luke 17:3)

We are warned to be careful of how we let things affect us and our walk with God. In Luke 21:34, Jesus warns that the cares of life and ways of this world can weigh us down, if we let them. The solution: Matt. 16:24. We are to deny ourselves, take up the cross, and follow Jesus.

"How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word." (Psalm 119:9)

May we all heed the warnings God graciously provides us in His word, and keep our way clean and pure for God!

Last modified: March 2, 2004