Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons. – 1 Timothy 4:1
You may think of Satanism or something desperately wicked when you read today’s verse speaking of “deceitful spirits and teachings of demons.” However, going further into the chapter you see where these come from: “Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.”
These teachers banned marriage and certain foods. Paul states, “For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer” (1 Timothy 4:2-5).
Some people who claim to teach the Word of God are actually devoted to deceitful spirits and the teaching of demons.
Jesus also dealt with such teachers, as the Scribes and Pharisees. He said they were like white-washed tombs, beautiful on the outside but full of dead men’s bones (Matthew 23-27).
Believers need to be on guard against false teachers.
True righteousness stems from faith in God’s Son.
Righteousness does not come by following rules, but by following Jesus.
When you come to Jesus, He changes you from the inside out.
Next time you are tempted to feel unworthy because you do not strictly adhere to what you view as righteousness, remember that Jesus is your Savior and your Righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21).
Do not depend on yourself to be right in God’s eyes, but look to Jesus and thank Him for His salvation. Ask for godly wisdom and discernment to live your life, knowing you are accepted and blessed in the beloved (Ephesians 1:6).
Comentários