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"Do not be deceived..."

Text: James 1:16

THE PROBLEM OF DECEPTION

As the Apostle James wrote to clarify things, he knew what he was up against. In his usual candid style he wrote these words.

“Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren.”
James 1:16

1. The readers

a) They were “beloved brethren”.

b) There was a close relationship between James and his readers.

c) He wrote to warn them about the problem of deception.

2. “Do not be deceived”

a) The danger of deception had to be broached.

b) A word of warning had to be given.

c) The brethren must do their part to ensure that they are not going to end up being deceived.

BATTLING THE PROBLEM OF DECEPTION

We have many NT writers who wrote to warn their readers of the problem of deception. Three may be highlighted.

1. The Apostle Paul

a) He wrote extensively to combat false teachings.

b) Some of his writings include Galatians, Colossians, 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus.

2. The Apostle Peter

a) He devoted 2 Peter to combat false teachings.

b) Part of the Apostolic ministry was the defence of the Gospel.

3. The Apostle John

a) Though John is fondly spoken of as “the apostle of love” he wrote strongly against false teachers.

b) 1 John is an example of how John warned his readers to guard themselves against deception.

OUR PRESENT TIMES

The danger of being deceived has continued to the present times. What can we do to protect ourselves? There are three essential things we must give attention to:

1. Know our faith and the Scriptures well.

2. Seek the Lord’s grace to have wisdom and discernment.

3. Dare to defend our faith against false teachings.