Matthew 24:3-4 As He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of Your coming and of the end of the age?” Jesus answered them, “Take heed that no one deceives you.”
It is very interesting that the first thing that Jesus says when asked the question is, “Take heed that no one deceives you.” In other words, “Focus so that no one deceives you.” Another term for take heed is “pay attention.”
It is so easy in our modern world to just not pay attention to what is around us because we are so busy. Deception is defined by Webster as “the act of causing someone to accept as true or valid, what is false or invalid.” Deception is a very strong word. We are hearing deception tactics from a lot of different directions nowadays. There are things that seem so correct, but when exposed, are so disheartening.
Years ago a Christian band that I enjoyed listening to and playing along with was really on the top of the charts. They were right where they wanted to be. And as I started to figure out the truth, why they were creating music, even great music with a Christ centered theme, that is all it was. Words to a song. The music, the money and concert feel of a performance is what they were after. No storing up treasures in heaven, but creating treasures in this life. This is the same for some of the TV evangelists, well, YouTubers now. Live Churches, Vlogers, Blogs, Websites and yes…books.
I encourage you to “pay attention.” Deception has been on the rise but seems it is now beyond what I could have ever imagined. The evil that is around us doesn’t really need to push the enemies’ philosophies and books of lies; what it can more easily do is unconsciously infect Christian theologies slowly, so it’s deception is not noticed. Pay attention.
The one who said “take heed that no one deceives you” is the one who is the Way, the Truth and the Life.
Have a great day!
—Brian Rainey
*Please be advised that this blog represents the views, opinions and beliefs of the writer and does not necessarily reflect those of our church leadership or denominational affiliation.