Can a BELIEVER be deceived? Article by C R Stam

[Christine]

    THE QUESTION OF EXPOSURE

    There are those who argue that believers cannot be strengthened against error without being exposed to it. Our Lord knew better. He did not invite the Pharisees and the Sadducees to address His audiences. Rather He warned His audiences against the "leaven" of the Pharisees and the Sadducees and kept teaching His hearers the truth.

    The depravity of the human heart and mind is such that the believer is not strengthened against error by constant exposure to it; he is strengthened against error by feeding consistently upon the Word of God. Exposure to error strengthens the believer only as it drives him to the Word of God. Show me a Christian who is always "considering all sides" and I will show you one who will fail dismally to give the Scriptural answer to false teaching—if indeed he is not taken in by false teaching himself. But show me a Christian who spends his time with that blessed Book and I will show you one who, strong in the faith, can easily answer his adversaries by the Scriptures. Paul wrote to young Pastor Timothy:

    "I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ.... Preach the Word....For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears" (II Tim. 4:1-3).

    And what was to be the result of this "itching ears" condition, this passion to hear teachers of all schools of thought expound their various doctrines? Hear the divine prediction:

    "And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables" (Ver. 4).

    What thoughtful student of the Word will deny that we have reached this point in the history of the professing Church, that the day of "itching ears" is upon us?

    The desire to "give everyone a hearing," as it were, may seem superficially to indicate spiritual greatness, but actually it is of the flesh and is based upon the exalted presumption that it is safe for me to trust my intellect, even though the greatest intellects have disagreed over the most vital subjects. Where our intellects are concerned we are wiser to heed the Spirit-inspired exhortation of one truly great intellect, the Apostle Paul:

    "Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ" (II Cor. 10:5).

    The Apostle Paul did not assume that his followers were mature enough to consider all religious viewpoints. He delivered his God-given message and warned his hearers and readers against false teachings.

    To the Corinthians he wrote:

    "But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ" (II Cor. 11:3).

    Reminding the Colossians of his labor and strife and toil and conflict to establish them in the faith, he warns:

    "Beware lest any man spoil [rob] you....Let no man beguile you..." (Col. 2:8,18).

    He did not suggest to the Ephesian elders that it might be big of them occasionally to invite the legalists or the gnostics or some other heterodox teachers in to address their audiences. He rather impressed upon them their responsibility to protect their congregations from false teaching. Read carefully and prayerfully his very words, as found in Acts 20:28-31:

    "Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the Church of God, which he hath purchased with His own blood.

    "For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.

    "Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.

    "Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears."

    Even those two outstanding pastors, Timothy and Titus, were warned against the "leaven" of false teaching. The apostle exhorts Timothy:

    "Take heed unto thyself and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself and them that hear thee" (I Tim. 4:16).

    This passage explains why some pastors have been unable to save their hearers from error and spiritual shipwreck. Certainly it teaches the danger of false doctrine to both pastor and people.

    Throughout his two epistles to Timothy the apostle warns his son in the faith against those who "teach otherwise" and exhorts him to "fight the good fight of the faith." How earnestly he beseeches young Timothy to stay close to the Word of God and especially to the Word of God committed to him for this present dispensation:

    "O Timothy, keep [guard] that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding...oppositions of science falsely so called" (I Tim. 6:20).

    "Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

    "That good thing which was committed unto thee keep [guard] by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us" (II Tim. 1:13,14).

    In his letter to Titus the apostle declares that a bishop must be "blameless as the steward of God" (Titus 1:7).

    "Holding fast the faithful Word... that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and convince the gainsayers" (Ver. 9).

    Never does Paul advise even the strongest, most mature man of God to seek out the doctrines of those who "teach otherwise" so that they may know how to deal with them. He rather exhorts them to keep strong in the truth, ever ready to meet false doctrine with the Word of God.

    When you are confronted with the familiar sign, "BEWARE OF THE DOG," be wise and keep out of the way. If you ignore the warning and have to flee torn and bruised, that is your fault. Nor can you expect God to protect you from spiritual harm and loss if you ignore His admonition to beware of false doctrine.

    Do not presume: "I am mature. I will never be confused or overthrown by error." BEWARE! This is the course of obedience. This is the course of wisdom. This is the course of humility.

    Every believer should remember that "the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God...because they are spiritually discerned" (I Cor. 2:14). It was by the Spirit that our eyes were opened to the most vital truths which confront mankind. Therefore it behooves us to protect ourselves from error and spiritual harm by consistent, prayerful, believing study of that blessed Book of which the Spirit is the Author.
     

   

[Lu]

And this is why I don't understand someone, who after learning rightly dividing, continues to go to a church that isn't a Grace Church.  They say for human fellowship, but they are sitting and listening to something that isn't sound doctrine.

YFIC,  Lu

[Christine]

And this is why I don't understand someone, who after learning rightly dividing, continues to go to a church that isn't a Grace Church.  They say for human fellowship, but they are sitting and listening to something that isn't sound doctrine.

YFIC,  Lu

And how can you "fellowship" with those who are teaching Israel's instructions to the church the Body of Christ? What "fellowship" is there?

I'm with YOU, I don't get it.

[Oasis]

Lu

And this is why I don't understand someone, who after learning rightly dividing, continues to go to a church that isn't a Grace Church.  They say for human fellowship, but they are sitting and listening to something that isn't sound doctrine.

I don't either, Lu.  People put their friends and their comfort zone over the Truth.  I'm seeing more and more of this.  I think people are afraid of being persecuted for the Truth at work, in social settings, etc...What a small price to pay for those who gave their very lives for Christ.  Anybody ever read, "Foxed Book of Martyrs"?  I made myself read the whole thing years ago.  How weak we have become, that so many of us are afraid to give up so little for the promise of eternity.   

Christine

And how can you "fellowship" with those who are teaching Israel's instructions to the church the Body of Christ? What "fellowship" is there?

I'm with YOU, I don't get it.

That's why we haven't been inside a Church building in three years.  We want to be active participants and we can't do that with those we disagree with doctrinally...and that's why we're looking for a home closer to a Grace congregation in Stilwater, Oklahoma.  Right now it's an hour away.  Eventually, we'll find the home we want that will put us close enough to fellowship with like-minded believers.  We do miss personal contact with believers.

ybiC,
Kab 

[Christine]

LU

And this is why I don't understand someone, who after learning rightly dividing, continues to go to a church that isn't a Grace Church.  They say for human fellowship, but they are sitting and listening to something that isn't sound doctrine.

KAB
I don't either, Lu.  People put their friends and their comfort zone over the Truth.  I'm seeing more and more of this.  I think people are afraid of being persecuted for the Truth at work, in social settings, etc...What a small price to pay for those who gave their very lives for Christ.  Anybody ever read, "Foxed Book of Martyrs"?  I made myself read the whole thing years ago.  How weak we have become, that so many of us are afraid to give up so little for the promise of eternity. 

You have hit the nail on the head, Kab. When the cost IS counted, these professing christians are not even willing to endure five minutes of hardship for the Savior that DIED for them! They think they are entitled to the "comfort zone" and that it is a God given RIGHT to BE THERE!

This is what happens when people do NOT study....when they listen to the meaningless platitudes of those calling themselves "pastors", who tell people that safety is in NUMBERS and that if you all believe what "I" tell ya, then we all stand together. He neglects to inform folks of things that will make them stronger Christians, or of truths that will strengthen their character, and instead relies on empty rhetoric and the "teaching of men" to further his own popularity and standing within the community. Is THIS what being a Christian is all about?

I thought we were here to represent GODS interests and plans and purposes?

Do you see how dangerous "religion" can really BE, as I do? It gives people a false sense of security in following a MAN  and a denomination instead of studying for oneself and following the LORD.

Churches are NOT safe places, in my humble opinion.

Comments?

Thank you Lu and Kab for your excellent remarks that keep us on our toes and in the WORD!  

Christine

And how can you "fellowship" with those who are teaching Israel's instructions to the church the Body of Christ? What "fellowship" is there?

I'm with YOU, I don't get it.

KAB said:
That's why we haven't been inside a Church building in three years.  We want to be active participants and we can't do that with those we disagree with doctrinally...and that's why we're looking for a home closer to a Grace congregation in Stilwater, Oklahoma.  Right now it's an hour away.  Eventually, we'll find the home we want that will put us close enough to fellowship with like-minded believers.  We do miss personal contact with believers.

ybiC,
Kab 

Yes, I miss the fellowship and contact with fellow believers as well...however, I am NOT willing to sacrifice sound doctrine for social fellowship. I think this is what YOU are saying as well. The internet is my saving grace in this area. I am in the middle of the Bible Belt in a town that is clearly "religious" and very few saved. They are also militant and very mean when confronted with their belief system....gasp, what a shock, ehhhh? Sadly, religion has taken the place of the REALITY of God living His life in and thru a man.

We must keep on being faithful with the message...it is our responsibility regardless of the response of others. FOCUS FOCUS FOCUS, I keep telling myself. Some days I am successful and some days I'm not.

How about you?

[Oasis]

Christine

We must keep on being faithful with the message...it is our responsibility regardless of the response of others. FOCUS FOCUS FOCUS, I keep telling myself. Some days I am successful and some days I'm not.

How about you?

Absolutely, Christine!

I'm having more "calm" days than I used to.  Why should I get bent out of shape?  My eyes were finally opened to the Truth...it only took 33 years to leave the church of christ religion, and another 10 years to discover The Mystery.  So I'm a slow study...LOL

The more I share Paul's teaching with others, the more I'm getting used to the "crossed arms", beligerent attitudes, and hateful responses from "professing Christians".  It's our role to share the Truth and the Holy Spirit's role to convict them of the Truth.  It's getting easier to be more patient in sharing because the consequences of denial of it are too horrible to think about.  When people tell me I don't know what I'm talking about, or that they think I'm twisting Scripture, I just think of the words of Adrian Rodgers(deceased).  He said,

"There are those who may preach
the gospel better than I can,
but
there is no one who can preach
a better gospel than I can"

Amen Adrian!

ybiC,
Kab

 

   

[Lu]

Here's something the Bible tells us:
1 Tim 2: 24-26
And the servant of the Lord must not strive;
but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
In meekness instructing those who oppose themselves; if God preadventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth:
And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

Must not strive....
strive means - make great efforts, try very hard

I guess try in meekness and patience and then it's up to them to come back, ask, and learn.

Then we get to 2 Tim 3, which is probably the time we are in now, and see just how difficult it is to reach  these opinionated people..........

Whatcha think?

YFIC, Lu

[Oasis]

Lu

I guess try in meekness and patience and then it's up to them to come back, ask, and learn.

Then we get to 2 Tim 3, which is probably the time we are in now, and see just how difficult it is to reach  these opinionated people..........

Whatcha think?

Hi Lu,

I think Scripture says we're supposed to be hardheaded.  
Well...the Bible does say that even though these people are difficult to reach we're supposed to keep at em'...keep beatin' our heads against the wall with a lot of em'!  If we do that enough we'll develop callouses...ie... hardheaded!  LOL

Seriously, if God could keep trying and trying to reach the Nation of Israel...and that didn't work so Jesus came physically  and tried and tried...and that didn't work, so he sent Paul and he tried and tried and few listened... and now Christ through Paul teaches us to keep trying and trying...the least we can do is honor God by continuing to try to reach the lost as He did.  We're to imitate the longsuffering with others that God demonstrated with us.

That's what I get from this, Lu.

ybiC,
Kab

[Lu]

Well, this is truly a thought provoking article, that's for sure....

From the article:
Never does Paul advise even the strongest, most mature man of God to seek out the doctrines of those who "teach otherwise" so that they may know how to deal with them. He rather exhorts them to keep strong in the truth, ever ready to meet false doctrine with the Word of God.

It was by the Spirit that our eyes were opened to the most vital truths which confront mankind. Therefore it behooves us to protect ourselves from error and spiritual harm by consistent, prayerful, believing study of that blessed Book of which the Spirit is the Author.
     
YFIC,  Lu
 

[Oasis]

Lu

It was by the Spirit that our eyes were opened to the most vital truths which confront mankind. Therefore it behooves us to protect ourselves from error and spiritual harm by consistent, prayerful, believing study of that blessed Book of which the Spirit is the Author.

A resounding "AMEN" from me, Lu!

Lu, I agree with you about too much exposure to false truth.  But, what do you think about reaching out to others that believe differently in order to share the Truth with them?  For example by visiting sites on the internet where false truth(s) are taught, or perhaps on sites where people of many varying beliefs come together to discuss Scripture?  Do you think we should stay away from these?  If so, how do we share with others?

ybiC,
Kab

[NewDawn]

God has made a way in every avenue for us to share the gospel.  I mean, I thank Him for allowing the internet to be developed.  Can you imagine how are feet would hurt by all the walking, how much money we would spend for gas?  I'm being goofy, and I don't mean to make light of this.
God is sovereign! 

We should use what He's given us to share the gospel. 

Diana   

[Christine]

God has made a way in every avenue for us to share the gospel.  I mean, I thank Him for allowing the internet to be developed.  Can you imagine how are feet would hurt by all the walking, how much money we would spend for gas?  I'm being goofy, and I don't mean to make light of this.
God is sovereign! 

We should use what He's given us to share the gospel. 

Diana   

AAAAmen , Diana.

Did you forget about Bible Study tonite? We missed you! Wink

[NewDawn]

Aye yi yi!!  Oh Christine, I did forget!  Yesterday was my brothers birthday and I drove to his house to take him a cake I had baked him. 
I'll be there next Tuesday.  

[Lu]

Lu

It was by the Spirit that our eyes were opened to the most vital truths which confront mankind. Therefore it behooves us to protect ourselves from error and spiritual harm by consistent, prayerful, believing study of that blessed Book of which the Spirit is the Author.

A resounding "AMEN" from me, Lu!

Lu, I agree with you about too much exposure to false truth.  But, what do you think about reaching out to others that believe differently in order to share the Truth with them?  For example by visiting sites on the internet where false truth(s) are taught, or perhaps on sites where people of many varying beliefs come together to discuss Scripture?  Do you think we should stay away from these?  If so, how do we share with others?

ybiC,
Kab

Hi, Oasis

Well, it worked for me being told on the internet, but it was a grace Bible studied evangelist who spoke up.
According to the article above, it sounds like we shouldn't jump in with Acts 2 believers.
The Lord has given us pastors, ministers, teachers, and evangelists. The rest of us are different members of the body. We can help in many ways.
I guess we could print out correct information or direct people to good pastors?
We have different circumstances in our lives.
I'm not out in the workplace where I'm in contact with alot of people.  But a few people know that I'm always studying the Bible and Bible related things, so I'm honored when they come to me with their questions.  So, they are learning the grace gospel from me.   I am still going to have to read everything about 50 more times, so I know it like the back of my hand, though.  lol
Christine, do you have any answers for us???

YFIC,  Lu

[Christine]

Lu

It was by the Spirit that our eyes were opened to the most vital truths which confront mankind. Therefore it behooves us to protect ourselves from error and spiritual harm by consistent, prayerful, believing study of that blessed Book of which the Spirit is the Author.

A resounding "AMEN" from me, Lu!

Lu, I agree with you about too much exposure to false truth.  But, what do you think about reaching out to others that believe differently in order to share the Truth with them?  For example by visiting sites on the internet where false truth(s) are taught, or perhaps on sites where people of many varying beliefs come together to discuss Scripture?  Do you think we should stay away from these?  If so, how do we share with others?

ybiC,
Kab

Hi, Oasis

Well, it worked for me being told on the internet, but it was a grace Bible studied evangelist who spoke up.
According to the article above, it sounds like we shouldn't jump in with Acts 2 believers.
The Lord has given us pastors, ministers, teachers, and evangelists. The rest of us are different members of the body. We can help in many ways.
I guess we could print out correct information or direct people to good pastors?
We have different circumstances in our lives.
I'm not out in the workplace where I'm in contact with alot of people.  But a few people know that I'm always studying the Bible and Bible related things, so I'm honored when they come to me with their questions.  So, they are learning the grace gospel from me.   I am still going to have to read everything about 50 more times, so I know it like the back of my hand, though.  lol
Christine, do you have any answers for us???

YFIC,  Lu

Hey guys,

I have attempted to do both and quite frankly, people are so hostile to any truth that varies from their "store bought brand" of Christianity taught from their denominational party line that I find it to be more like "throwing pearls before swine." That may sound harsh, but I really believe that if someone is looking for truth, God will make sure that their paths cross with a right divider.

Does this mean we should not take any risks by telling others the gospel?  Nope....thats not  what I mean. I share as often as the opportunity presents itself, and am actually led to be QUIET as often as I speak up. There is alot of animosity that gets stirred up when we confront others on what we know to be a faulty belief system...and we don't want our gospel to be unnecessarily spoken badly of simply because we felt we had to have so many notches on our belts for "sharing the gospel" before we go to bed at nite....wink.

Share a little...let them mull it over...and the ones who are truly SEEKING will want to discuss it further. Those who aren't, won't.

What do YOU think?