“[5] Jesus said to them: “Watch out that no one deceives you. [6] Many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and will deceive many.” — Mark 13:5 - 6 NIV
In an information-saturated world, spreading deception has become easier than ever before. Today, many people use social media to spread false news and purport wrong doctrines about God. And sadly, many people listen to them because such people (fake ministers) usually have a way of manipulating the apps’ algorithms to work in their favour; others also pay these tech companies for their content to go viral. It was unfortunate to see a childhood friend brainwashed off the faith of Christ because he started listening to a false teacher on YouTube.
All these happenings aren’t new to Jesus. When the Apostles told Him to speak of the things to come, He said, “Watch out that no one deceives you. Many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and will deceive many” (Mark 13:5-6). That means fake ministers using Jesus’ name to do exploits abound. But it’s up to us Christians to be on guard. But by what means? Here are three suggestions I use to practise what Jesus said, and I recommend them to you.
1. Filter your social media feed.
Unfollow people who post gospel-related messages that have elements of false doctrines.
2. Prove all things (1 Thessalonians 5:16).
Before believing something a minister says but feels questionable to you, be like the members of the Berean church (see Acts 17:11). Scrutinise it. Study the Word to check whether what that person is saying is true or false. Because, of a truth, some people are preaching for fame and other private ambitions.
3. Be a personal student of the Word, not for preaching or ministry.
Usually, if you’re a minister, preaching schedules will somehow necessitate you to study the Word. And the more you do it, you’ll become more knowledgeable in the Word of righteousness. But studying the Word is actually never meant to be for preachers. It’s for all believers in Christ Jesus.
Until you study, people can deceive you. That is why God is intentional when He sends men to feed His people with knowledge and understanding (see Jeremiah 3:15).
Let God direct you to find the right church and remain planted there. So that, amidst the busyness of life, you’ll still be rest assured that you’re taking good spiritual food from your pastor.
You’re a blessing.
Prayer:
Father, help me to find a place where sound doctrine is taught so I’ll remain planted and protected from deception. In the name of Jesus. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD – 2023 – 350
Shareable Graphics
