3.4 Human Reasoning Apart From Scripture
Divine Orientation in a Confusing World

Read Proverbs 16:25; Judges 21:25, and Isaiah 53:6. What do they reveal about Satan’s strategy of deception?

The given Bible verses offer profound insights into Satan’s strategy of deception and the necessity to cling to God’s Word to recognize and live in truth. Let’s examine these verses more closely:

Proverbs 16:25:

 “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” This verse speaks of human self-assurance and confidence in one’s own path or ways. It’s easy to consider one’s own way as right and acceptable without considering the divine perspective or guidance. However, this seemingly correct path can ultimately lead astray and even to spiritual death.

Judges 21:25:

“In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” In this time without clear divine guidance and authority, everyone acted according to their own discretion. This led to chaos, moral decay, and widespread sin. Without a clear standard and divine guidance, humans can easily go astray and follow their own desires and inclinations.

Isaiah 53:6:

“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.” This verse speaks of the universal tendency of humans to stray from God and go their own way. It underscores the need for salvation through Jesus Christ, who took on our sins to bring us back to God.

Insights into Satan’s Strategy of Deception:

1. Self-assurance and Stubbornness: Satan’s strategy is to make humans believe they can manage without divine guidance and wisdom.

2. Relativism and Moral Decay: In the absence of clear divine authority and standards, humans can easily fall into moral relativism and sin.

3. Temptation to Self-will: Satan tempts humans to go their own way and distance themselves from God by promising false security and autonomy.

It is crucial that we do not rely on our own understanding and ways but cling to God’s Word. The Bible serves as our divine standard and guidance, directing us on the right path and protecting us from the devil’s deceptions and traps. By immersing ourselves daily in God’s Word, praying, and asking the Holy Spirit for guidance, we can ensure that we stay on the right path and live according to God’s will.

Why is the human mind, without the help of the Holy Spirit, unable to recognize divine truth? Discuss the relationship between human reason and divine revelation. How does reason help us understand divine revelation? Consider, for example, Daniel 2, a prophecy that spans world history from the time of Babylon to the future. How does a prophecy like this appeal to human reason?

The question of the role of the human mind in recognizing divine truth is a profound and complex one that touches on the interplay between reason and revelation.

Human Mind and Divine Truth:

1. Limitations of the Human Mind: The human mind is limited and prone to error. We cannot know or fully understand everything, especially when it comes to the infinite and eternal truth of God.

2. Sin and Delusion: Sin clouds our judgment and distorts our reasoning. Without the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit, we tend to twist or reject the truth.

3. Dependence on Divine Revelation: To fully recognize and understand divine truth, we need divine revelation. God reveals Himself through His creation, His Word (the Bible), and ultimately through Jesus Christ.

Relationship between Human Reason and Divine Revelation:

1. Complement and Confirmation: Human reason can complement and confirm divine revelation by helping to interpret, deepen, and apply the revelation to our lives.

2. Danger of Alienation: If reason is corrupted by sin, there is a danger of becoming alienated from divine revelation and drawing false conclusions.

Daniel 2 and the Role of Reason:

Daniel 2 is an impressive prophecy that covers world history from the time of Babylon to the end times. This prophecy challenges our human reason and appeals to our understanding of history, politics, and God’s sovereignty.

1. Confirmation of Divine Sovereignty: The fulfillment of Daniel 2 through history confirms God’s divine sovereignty and providence. This strengthens our faith and fosters our trust in God’s Word.

2. Challenge to Reason: The complexity and precision of the prophecy challenge our human reason and show that there is a higher intelligence and wisdom that surpasses our understanding.

3. Guide to Understanding the End Times: Daniel 2 serves as a guide and framework for understanding end-time events, helping us to recognize the signs of the times and prepare accordingly.

Conclusion:

Human reason alone is not sufficient to recognize the full depth and breadth of divine truth. It is limited and prone to error. However, when used in the light of divine revelation, it can be a valuable tool to understand, deepen, and apply the truth. Prophecies like Daniel 2 appeal to our human reason, challenge it, and at the same time confirm divine sovereignty and providence in history and in our lives.

In our daily lives, we constantly face decisions, challenges, and temptations. Satan’s strategies, as described in the Bible verses, are still relevant today and manifest in various forms: self-assurance, moral relativism, and the temptation to go our own way without listening to God.

1. Self-assurance and Stubbornness: In a world that emphasizes individualism and self-determination, it is easy to rely on our own abilities and opinions. But this can distance us from God’s plan and will. In daily life, we should remain humble and recognize that we need God’s wisdom and guidance.

2. Relativism and Moral Decay: Today’s society often promotes moral relativism, where “everyone can do what seems right to him.” As believers, we must adhere to God’s absolute truth and resist moral decay and sin.

3. Temptation to Self-will: The temptation to go our own way and follow our own desires is prevalent. It is important to daily cling to God’s Word, pray, and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance to walk the right path.

The Role of Human Reason in Faith:

Our human reason can be a valuable tool when used in the light of divine revelation. In everyday life, reason can help us analyze difficult situations, make decisions, and deepen our relationship with God. But we must be careful that our reason is not corrupted by sin and delusion, but guided by divine revelation.

Daniel 2 and Relevance for Our Time:

Daniel 2 challenges our human reason and appeals to our understanding of history, politics, and God’s sovereignty. In a time when many people are concerned about the future and seeking answers, Daniel 2 offers a guide and framework for understanding end-time events. It reminds us that God is sovereign, that His plans unfold throughout history, and that we can rely on His promises.

Conclusion:

Our faith and relationship with God should not only be theoretical but rooted in every aspect of our daily lives. Satan’s strategies, as described in the Bible verses, are just as relevant today as they were then. By adhering to God’s Word, using our reason in the light of divine revelation, and being guided by prophecies like Daniel 2, we can lead a life that honors God and withstands the challenges and temptations of our time.

The Holy Scriptures are our compass in a confusing world.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-light-shines-in-the-darkness-3-4-human-reasoning-apart-from-scripture/

3.3 Safeguarded by the Word
The Unwavering Foundation: Scripture as a Shield Against Deceptions

Compare John 17:15-17 and Acts 20:32. What insights do Jesus and Apostle Paul provide us regarding protection against Satan’s deceptions?

The cited Bible verses emphasize the central role of Scripture in our faith life and the importance of being vigilant against Satan’s deceptions.

John 17:15-17 In these verses, Jesus prays for his disciples, asking the Father to protect them from evil. He speaks of the disciples’ holiness through God’s Word, stating that the Word is truth. Here, Jesus highlights the importance of protection through the truth of God’s Word against the deceptions of evil.

Acts 20:32 Paul reminds the elders of Ephesus that he entrusted them to the word of God’s grace, which has the power to build up and give an inheritance to all who are sanctified. This demonstrates the central role of Scripture in the Christian faith life and its ability to protect us from deceptions.

Insights:

1. Truth as Protection: Both Jesus and Paul emphasize the importance of the truth of God’s Word as protection against Satan’s deceptions. The Word of God is not only a guide for our lives but also a shield that protects us from spiritual attacks.

2. Immutability of Scripture: Their analysis underscores the inspiration and authority of the entire Bible as the infallible Word of God. It is crucial to recognize that all parts of Scripture are inspired by God and should be accepted as such to resist deceptions and false teachings.

3. Danger of Modernization and Relativism: They warn against viewing the Bible as a human work and undermining its divine inspiration and authority. This approach can lead to a loss of truth and compromises in our faith.

4. Importance of Self-examination: It is essential to practice regular self-examination and to test our understanding and interpretation of Scripture against the standard of the entire biblical doctrine.

In summary, these verses emphasize the central role of Scripture in the Christian faith life and the necessity of being vigilant to resist Satan’s deceptions. It is crucial to consider God’s Word as the ultimate and unchanging truth and to align our lives and faith accordingly.

Read Psalm 119:105,116,130,133, and 160. What insights does the Psalmist provide us about the significance of God’s Word in the plan of salvation?

Psalm 119 is an impressive hymn praising the Word of God and its importance in a believer’s life. The cited verses emphasize various aspects of the importance and power of God’s Word. Let’s examine these verses more closely:

Psalm 119:105 “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Here, the Psalmist emphasizes that God’s Word serves as a lamp for our path. It is a source of guidance, light, and clarity in our lives. In a salvific context, this shows that God’s Word guides us to salvation and leads us in our faith journey.

Psalm 119:116 “Uphold me according to your word, that I may live; and let me not be put to shame in my hope.” The Psalmist asks God to uphold him according to His Word, indicating that God’s Word is the standard for righteousness and life. It shows the life-giving and protective nature of God’s Word in the plan of salvation.

Psalm 119:130 “The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.” The Psalmist praises the power of God’s Word, which grants understanding and enlightenment. Through God’s Word, people can recognize and understand the truth, which is crucial in the context of salvation.

Psalm 119:133 “Keep steady my steps according to your promise, and let no iniquity get dominion over me.” The Psalmist emphasizes the need to be firmly rooted in God’s Word to stand firm in faith and righteousness. God’s Word serves as a foundation and protection against sin and iniquity.

Psalm 119:160 “The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.” The Psalmist confirms that the entire Word of God is truth and that God’s righteousness is eternal. This demonstrates the unchangeability and reliability of God’s Word in the plan of salvation.

Insights:

1. Guidance and Light: God’s Word serves as a lamp and light on our path, guiding us and providing clarity in our lives and our journey to salvation.

2. Standard for Righteousness: God’s Word is the standard for righteousness and life. It guides us, protects us, and gives us hope.

3. Understanding and Enlightenment: God’s Word grants understanding and enlightenment, allowing people to recognize and understand the truth.

4. Foundation and Protection: It is essential to be firmly rooted in God’s Word to stand firm in faith and righteousness and to be protected against sin and iniquity.

5. Unchanging Truth: The entire Word of God is truth, and His righteousness endures forever. It is reliable, unchangeable, and eternally valid.

In summary, the Psalmist conveys the central role and significance of God’s Word in the plan of salvation through these verses. It is a source of guidance, light, righteousness, understanding, protection, and unchanging truth. Through God’s Word, people can recognize, understand, and grow in faith.

The connection between God’s Word and our everyday life and faith is profound and life-changing. The Word of God is not just a collection of ancient texts but a living and active instrument that guides, shapes, and transforms us. Let’s highlight some key aspects of this connection:

1. Daily Guidance and Direction

God’s Word serves as a lamp for our path (Psalm 119:105). In our daily lives, this can mean that by reading and meditating on Scripture, we can find answers, guidance, and clarity in various situations we face.

2. Foundation for Ethical and Moral Action

God’s Word is the standard for righteousness and life (Psalm 119:116). In a world often characterized by moral relativism, the Bible provides clear guidelines and principles that help us act ethically and morally.

3. Source of Knowledge and Wisdom

God’s Word grants understanding and enlightenment (Psalm 119:130). Through Scripture, we receive not only knowledge but also wisdom – the ability to apply knowledge in our lives and make wise decisions.

4. Strengthening and Protection in Faith

God’s Word serves as a foundation and protection against sin and iniquity (Psalm 119:133). In times of temptation and trial, we can rely on the truths of Scripture to strengthen and protect us.

5. Anchoring in Unchanging Truth

The entire Word of God is truth (Psalm 119:160). In a constantly changing world, the Bible offers an unchanging and reliable foundation on which we can build our faith and life.

6. Continuous Self-examination and Spiritual Growth

It is important to practice regular self-examination and to test our understanding and interpretation of Scripture against the standard of the entire biblical doctrine. This promotes spiritual growth and maturity.

In summary, the Word of God provides us with guidance, ethical guidelines, knowledge, protection, unchanging truth, and the opportunity for spiritual growth. It reminds us of who God is, who we are in Him, and how we should live in this world. Therefore, it is crucial to integrate God’s Word into our daily lives, to study it, meditate on it, and act according to it, in order to lead a fulfilled and God-pleasing life.

Thought of the Day: The Bible is our infallible compass in a confusing world.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-light-shines-in-the-darkness-3-3-safeguarded-by-the-word/

3.2 Savage Wolves
Paul’s Urgent Admonition: Vigilance Against Internal and External Threats to the Church

Read Acts 20:27-32. What specific warnings did Apostle Paul give to the church leaders of Ephesus regarding the upcoming apostasy?

In these verses, Apostle Paul gives specific warnings to the church leaders of Ephesus concerning the upcoming apostasy:

1. Ravenous wolves will come: Paul warns about false teachers or leaders who will infiltrate the church like wolves and deceive the believers. These “ravenous wolves” symbolize those who will not spare the flock and spread false teachings.

2. Men will rise from among you: Paul warns of internal dangers, namely that men from within the church will spread false teachings. These individuals will try to draw the disciples away from true doctrine and lead them astray.

3. Guard yourselves and the flock: Paul admonishes the church leaders to guard themselves and the flock of God. They should be vigilant and protect the church from false teachings and seductions. Paul’s advice and warnings remain relevant today. In a time when false teachings, heresies, and seductions are widespread, it is crucial to be vigilant, study the Scriptures, and remain steadfast in faith. Church leaders and believers should encourage, admonish, and ground each other in the Word of God to resist the temptations and deceptions of apostasy.

Read 2 Thessalonians 2:7-12. How does Apostle Paul describe the coming apostasy? What characteristics should the Thessalonians watch for?

In these verses, Apostle Paul describes the coming apostasy as follows:

1. The mystery of lawlessness is already at work: Paul speaks of an already existing power of lawlessness that is at work in the world. There is an increasing departure from truth and obedience to God’s law.

2. The lawless one will be revealed: A time will come when the “lawless one” or the Antichrist will be revealed. He will appear through the power of Satan with signs, wonders, and seductions to lead people into unrighteousness.

3. They did not receive the love of the truth: A key characteristic of the apostasy is that many people will not accept the love of the truth and will be seduced by lies. They will believe in heresies and unrighteousness instead of the truth of God’s Word.

4. God sends a powerful delusion: As punishment for their rejection of the truth and their delight in unrighteousness, God sends a “powerful delusion” so that they will believe the lie and be judged.

Paul’s warnings are both timeless and relevant for today. He admonishes believers to be vigilant, to love and accept the truth, and to guard against the seductions and heresies that are prevalent in the world. It is crucial to remain steadfast in faith, study the Word of God, and stay in prayer and fellowship with other believers to resist the temptations and deceptions of apostasy.

What kind of compromises do we see in the church today? And more importantly, what compromises might you be making? Is this sometimes done by mixing truth and error?

Compromises in the church can be diverse and often happen unconsciously. Here are some of the most common types of compromises we can observe in the church today:

1. Moral compromises: A slackening in teaching about moral and ethical issues, such as marriage, sexuality, and the sanctity of life, to appear more popular or contemporary.

2. Theological compromises: The tendency to dilute or alter fundamental theological truths to make them more acceptable to a broader audience.

3. Cultural adaptation: Adapting church doctrine and practice to cultural trends and norms instead of aligning them with the unchanging Word of God.

4. Ecumenical compromises: Making compromises in doctrine or practice in the interest of unity with other churches or religious groups, even if they contradict biblical truth.

5. Social and political compromises: Adopting a political or social agenda that may not necessarily align with biblical principles to increase acceptance or influence in society.

More importantly, it is crucial for all of us to engage in self-reflection and examine the compromises we might be making in our own lives. This can happen by mixing truth and error, being influenced by culture, or giving more room to our personal desires and inclinations than to biblical truth.

It is important to practice regular self-examination, stay in prayer, study the Word of God, and be encouraged and admonished by other believers. By remaining vigilant and strengthening our relationship with God, we can recognize and resist the temptations of compromise, and we can ensure that we preserve the truth pure and unadulterated.

The connection between these biblical warnings and our everyday life in faith is clear and immediate. The warnings of Apostle Paul and other biblical authors are not just historical notes but timeless principles that are relevant in every generation. Here are some key points that illustrate this connection:

1. Vigilance: As Paul emphasizes, it is essential for every believer to be vigilant. We live in a world that is constantly bombarded with various ideologies, opinions, and distractions. It is easy to lose focus and deviate from the truth. Therefore, it is important to regularly study the Word of God, stay in prayer, and be in a community of believers who encourage and admonish one another.

2. Self-examination: As Paul says in 2 Thessalonians 2:15, we should “hold fast to the traditions, just as I delivered them to you.” This means that we should regularly examine our lives and beliefs to ensure they align with Scripture.

3. Compromise and purity of doctrine: The warnings against false teachers, moral compromises, and cultural adaptations are particularly relevant to us today. In a world that is constantly calling for change and adaptation, it is easy to be led astray from the clear and unchanging doctrine of the Bible. It is important to stand firm and preserve the purity of the doctrine.

4. Community: The importance of community with other believers cannot be overstated. In a time of apostasy and confusion, it is crucial to connect with others who stand firm in the faith and support one another. In conclusion, the biblical warnings about apostasy, seduction, and compromise remind us that our life of faith is a constant journey of vigilance, self-examination, and steadfastness. By adhering to these principles and letting ourselves be guided by the truth of God’s Word, we can resist the temptations of apostasy and lead a life that honors and pleases God. 

Vigilance against false teachings and compromises is key to preserving pure doctrine and fellowship.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-light-shines-in-the-darkness-3-2-savage-wolves/

Lesson 3: Light Shines in the Darkness
Light in Darkness: Vigilance and Truth in a Changing World

In Lesson 3, we delve deeper into the interplay of truth and deception as depicted in the Bible. Referring to the words of Jesus and the writings of Apostle Paul, we are made aware of the subtle seductions and false doctrines that can jeopardize our spiritual journey. The importance of the Holy Scriptures as our unwavering foundation and shield against spiritual deception is emphasized. The lesson urges us to actively preserve and spread the light of the Gospel to provide guidance in an increasingly confusing and threatened world of darkness. It encourages us to heighten our spiritual vigilance and cling to the guiding power of the Bible to strengthen and protect our faith.

3.1 Compromise: Satan’s Subtle Strategy
Recognizing Truth: Jesus and Satan’s Strategies in Light of Scripture

Compare John 14:6 with 8:44. What contrast between the character of Jesus and Satan is evident in these two verses?

In John 14:6, Jesus says, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father except through me.” In John 8:44, Jesus describes Satan’s character, “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.”

The contrast between the character of Jesus and the character of Satan is clearly visible in these two verses:

1. Truth vs. Lie: Jesus is the embodiment of truth, while Satan is the father of lies. Jesus speaks the truth because He is the truth that comes from God. In contrast, Satan is willing to spread lies and deception to lead people astray.

2. Path to Life vs. Temptation to Death: Jesus is the path to eternal life and to the Father. He offers redemption, hope, and a fulfilled life. Satan, on the other hand, is a murderer and tempter aiming to divert people from God and His path of truth and life.

3. Divine Authority vs. Self-will: Jesus speaks and acts in accordance with the will of the Father. He is the incarnation of divine love, wisdom, and power. Satan, however, acts from his own will and self-interest, disregarding the truth and the well-being of people.

In summary, John 14:6 and 8:44 highlight the profound contrast between the divine character of Jesus and the corrupt character of Satan. Jesus stands for truth, life, and love, while Satan represents lies, death, and deception. It is important to be aware of these differences and choose the path of Jesus and the truth.

Read Proverbs 23:23 and John 17:17; 8:32. What similarities do you see in these Bible verses regarding the truth of God’s Word? What is their central message?

Proverbs 23:23 says, “Buy truth, and do not sell it; buy wisdom, instruction, and understanding.” John 17:17 states, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.”

John 8:32 declares, “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” The similarities in these Bible verses regarding the truth of God’s Word are:

1. Truth as an indispensable value: In Proverbs 23:23, truth is portrayed as something of immeasurable value. It should be valued, sought after, and preserved.

2. The Word of God as the source of truth: In John 17:17, God’s Word is directly associated with truth. It is the Holy Scripture that provides us with true knowledge and revelation of God’s truth.

3. Freedom through truth: John 8:32 emphasizes that recognizing the truth leads to freedom. The truth of God’s Word has the power to free us from errors, deceptions, and the bonds of sin.

The central message of these Bible verses is the significance and power of the truth of God’s Word. They teach us to seek, value, and preserve the truth. God’s Word is the infallible source of truth that guides, educates, and liberates us. It is crucial that we rely on the Holy Scripture to recognize and live in the truth.

Jesus Himself, during His temptation in the desert test Luke 4:1–13, repeatedly referred to the Word of God to resist Satan. The Bible is a powerful tool that reveals truth to us and gives us the strength to resist the attacks of the enemy and walk in God’s wisdom and truth. It is of utmost importance that people have access to the Holy Scripture and can study it to recognize the truth and protect themselves from deceptions.

Discuss how Satan tries to distort or misinterpret God’s Word today.

Satan employs various strategies to distort or misinterpret God’s Word, especially in today’s modern world where information is easily accessible, and there exist many different opinions and interpretations. Here are some common methods Satan uses to distort the truth of God’s Word:

1. False teachings and heresies: Satan promotes false teachings and heresies that deviate from biblical truth. He deceives people into accepting false beliefs and interpretations that do not align with Scripture. This can happen through false prophets, cults, or misleading religious movements.

2. Dilution of Moral Values: In a world drifting further from Christian values, Satan tries to relativize or discard the moral and ethical commandments of the Bible. He promotes moral relativism that blurs the distinction between right and wrong.

3. Cultural Adaptation and Modernization: Satan exploits cultural change and societal trends to adapt or alter God’s Word to current norms and values. He promotes a “modern” interpretation of the Bible that deviates from traditional and historical interpretation.

4. Doubt and Skepticism: Satan tries to sow doubt and skepticism about the reliability and truth of the Bible. He questions the authority and inspiration of Scripture to divert people from the absolute truth of God’s Word.

5. Using Out-of-Context Scriptures: Satan can take individual Bible verses out of context or misquote them to convey a misleading message. He exploits ignorance or unfamiliarity with Scripture to spread false teachings.

6. Secular Philosophies and Ideologies: Satan uses secular philosophies, ideologies, and scientific theories that contradict biblical teachings to influence the understanding and interpretation of Scripture. He tries to reconcile the Bible with human beliefs and schools of thought rather than considering it as the infallible Word of God.

It is important to be vigilant, study the Scripture, and remain in prayer to protect ourselves from Satan’s deceptions and distortions. Through a solid knowledge of the Bible and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can recognize the truth, expose false teachings, and walk in the right doctrine.

The connection between these biblical concepts and our daily life and faith is profound and relevant. Here are some key aspects that illustrate this connection:

1. Choosing Truth: In a world flooded with information and various opinions and interpretations, we must actively seek the truth and choose it. This requires a conscious commitment to study, reflect on, and apply the Holy Scripture in our lives.

2. Resisting Compromise: Satan often uses subtle methods to tempt us to compromise our beliefs and principles. We must remain vigilant and steadfast to resist the temptations and deceptions that want to divert us from the truth.

3. Building a Solid Foundation: Our relationship with God and our understanding of His Word should be based on a solid and unshakable foundation. This helps us remain steadfast and be guided by the truth in difficult times and challenges.

4. Freedom through Truth: The truth of God’s Word has the power to free us from the bonds of sin, errors, and deceptions. By recognizing and living in the truth, we can lead a life characterized by God’s love, wisdom, and freedom.

5. Community in Faith: It is important to be in a community of believers who encourage, strengthen, and support each other. Joint prayer, Bible study, and fellowship promote our spiritual growth and help us stay in the truth.

In conclusion, it is crucial to be vigilant, steadfast, and committed in our daily life and faith. We must actively seek the truth, resist compromises, and have a solid foundation in God’s Word. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and community in faith, we can recognize, live in, and lead a fulfilled and God-pleasing life.

Thought of the Day: Truth remains unshakable, even when lies and deceptions attempt to overshadow it.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-light-shines-in-the-darkness-3-1-compromise-satans-subtle-strategy/