Message Notes

(I) Definition of “deceiving spirits”

1. “Deceiving” means to mislead

“And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression.” 1 Timothy 2:14

2. It also means to cause one to go astray or to wander

“Giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons,” 1 Timothy 4:1

3. The spirits are a reference to the spiritual forces of the evil one

(II) A clear and present danger posted by these deceiving spirits

1. A warning of the danger

a. A clear warning by the Holy Spirit

“Now the Spirit expressly says” 

b. A present warning of danger in these latter times

“That in latter times.” 1 Timothy 4:1

2. The dangers posed by these deceiving spirits

a. Separated from the faith

“Some will depart from the faith,” 1 Timothy 4:1

b. Succumbing to the work of the evil one

“Giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons,” 1 Timothy 4:1

c. Subjected to pseudo truth

“Speaking lies in hypocrisy,” 1 Timothy 4:2

d. Seared conscience

“Having their own conscience seared with a hot iron,” 1 Timothy 4:2

 (III) Diverse means of deception

1. Through seemingly good prohibitions

“Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods” 1 Timothy 4:3

2. Through clever persuasive words

“Now this I say lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words.” Colossians 2:4

3. Through flattering words

“For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple.” Romans 16:18

4. Through awesome signs and wonders

“The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved.” II Thessalonians 2:9-10

5. Through many other means

“Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition,” II Thessalonians 2:3

(IV) Defeating the deceiving spirits

1. With strength of faith

“Which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe…” 1 Timothy 4:3

2. With a sufficient body of truth

“And know the truth.” 1 Timothy 4:3

3. With a system to test every spirit

“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1

Close Up the Ranks

Let us close up the ranks;

The tireless enemy would fain break through.

Cause us to stand our ground; this one thing do.

Thou hast enrolled us, armed us for the fight;

From our weakness to Thy valor, look we, Lord of Might.

Let us close up the ranks.

Long is the line and very few are we,

But One is with us whom we cannot see;

Lo, Thou art with us always. Blessed Lord,

Thou hast said it; we believe Thee; changeless is Thy word.

Let us close up the ranks.

There is an end appointed soon or late;

Back shall the foe be turned at the gate.

The Risen Christ shall death and hell confound.

Christ enabling, Christ inspiring, we shall stand our ground.

– Amy Carmichael –