Wednesday, January 21 | Religious Deception
Day 3: Religious Deception
Reading: Matthew 23:23-28; 2 Corinthians 11:12-15
Devotional: Jesus reserved His harshest words for religious leaders who used God's name to serve themselves. They appeared righteous but harbored evil hearts. This warning echoes through the centuries. Not everyone who speaks biblical language represents Christ faithfully. Some use religion to build their own kingdoms, manipulate others, and avoid genuine transformation. Paul warned that Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. How do we discern? Look at the fruit. Does this teaching draw you closer to Christ or to a person? Does it produce humility or pride? Does it encourage mercy or judgment? Test everything against Scripture. Be wise, not naive. And examine your own heart: are you using religious activity to avoid dealing with your sin? True faith produces genuine love for God and people.
Reading: Matthew 23:23-28; 2 Corinthians 11:12-15
Devotional: Jesus reserved His harshest words for religious leaders who used God's name to serve themselves. They appeared righteous but harbored evil hearts. This warning echoes through the centuries. Not everyone who speaks biblical language represents Christ faithfully. Some use religion to build their own kingdoms, manipulate others, and avoid genuine transformation. Paul warned that Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. How do we discern? Look at the fruit. Does this teaching draw you closer to Christ or to a person? Does it produce humility or pride? Does it encourage mercy or judgment? Test everything against Scripture. Be wise, not naive. And examine your own heart: are you using religious activity to avoid dealing with your sin? True faith produces genuine love for God and people.