2 Corinthians 11-- Recognizing Deception

We hired a "magician" to perform at my son's ninth birthday party. The kids had a lot of fun being tricked into believing that he was able to do what seemed impossible.  We all knew these were just slight of hand tricks, but we enjoyed it as we let ourselves get caught up with the entertaining show. Unfortunately, there are some Christians who get caught up with the "tricks" and deceitfulness of false beliefs and/or they end up following leaders who are not truly godly. Paul addresses this in chapter 11 as he pleads with the Corinthians to recognize deception. How can we know if what we are hearing or reading is right? Ask "does the core message differ from salvation through faith alone in Christ alone" (vv3-4)? There is, for example, a fast-growing belief system propagated by a very popular American talk show host that at its core fails on this question. When you strip away the hype and spiritual sounding verbiage, the core is "believe in yourself," not Christ. Now, here are some more questions to ponder. Does it take from you emotionally, physically, spiritually and not replenish you (v20)? Is the church/group/movement personality driven or is it Christ focused and Christ driven (vv12-15, 20)? If you get the right answers to these questions, then look at the pastor/teacher/leader you are considering placing yourself under. Does his life show humility and genuine sacrifice (vv22-33)? Does he demonstrate genuine and deep concern for the people/ministry entrusted to his care (v28)? While there certainly are more questions we should consider when evaluating beliefs and ministries, these will get us off to a good start in recognizing deception.
_________________________
Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at www.maxpoint.org/message_board.