Don't Be Deceived (1 John 3:7-8)

Today's scripture: 1 John 3:7-8

We live in a world of deceivers. Politicians (not all, of course, but some). Corporations (ditto). Employees ... and employers.

And now, it seems, our schools. They seem to be changing history. They teach evolution as fact, but creation can’t even be taught as a theory. They allow “free thinking,” but don’t be caught praying in class.

But even more tragic? Our churches. Tolerance has morphed into compromise which then becomes acceptance. I’m all for loving my neighbor, and I’m a huge proponent of loving the sinner, yet hating the sin (in my own life as well as in the lives of others). And if one is not a follower of Jesus, then I say, “Live and let live—as long as she's not hurting someone or breaking the law.”

HOWEVER …

If one says he’s a follower of Jesus, yet practices sin … well then, I do have an issue with that. If one picks and chooses what she believes in the Bible in order to legitimize her sin … Now I know the Bible says, “Judge not, lest you be judged” (Matthew 7:1), but it also gives guidelines for how to redeem a sinning brother (see Matthew 18:15-20).

John makes it very clear in today’s verses. Those who practice, who live in habitual sin of any kind, are of the devil. You cannot serve two masters (see Matthew 6:24 and Luke 16:13; yes, Jesus is speaking specifically about wealth, but this applies to anything that takes priority over our relationship with Him).

If you’re practicing sin, then please confess it. And then “Go and sin no more” (John 8:11). Don’t be deceived by this world. Don’t be deceived by even those who call themselves Christians, yet compromise God’s word.

Instead, practice righteousness. Pray that God will help you to more and more like Christ. Pray that you’ll exude the fruit of the Spirit (see Galatians5:22). Practice those things that will please God.

In the end? That’s all that matters.