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/

2.6 Summary
The Heart of the Christian Faith: Love, Care, and Resistance Against Selfishness

The second lesson focused on the central theme of Christianity: the choice between love and selfishness. The various units of this lesson demonstrated:

A Savior with a Broken Heart: The deep love of Jesus Christ for humanity was portrayed, with His life and suffering representing the ultimate expression of divine love that is willing to selflessly give for others.

Preserved by Providence: It was emphasized that God leads and protects His believers through various life situations and challenges. Even in difficult times, the divine love and care for His children remain evident.

Faithful Amid Persecution: This unit showcased the steadfastness and loyalty of Christians in times of persecution. Despite resistance and dangers, they remained true to their faith convictions, underscoring their deep connection to Christ and His path of love and selflessness.

Caring for the Community: The importance of caring for the well-being of the community was emphasized. Christians were encouraged to serve actively and advocate for the welfare of their fellow human beings, especially in times of crisis, to practically express the love of Christ.

A Legacy of Love: In conclusion, it was emphasized that true Christianity is characterized by selfless and sacrificial love. This kind of love challenges every Christian to set aside their own selves and lead a life of devotion and love that reflects God’s kingdom on Earth.

Overall, the lesson clarifies that the fundamental question of Christianity is to choose love over selfishness. True Christianity is characterized by love, service, and devotion that manifest the kingdom of God in the world.

The connection between Lesson 2 “The Central Question: Love or Selfishness?” and our everyday life as well as faith is profound and shaping. Here are some aspects that highlight this connection:

1. Personal Relationships: In our daily interactions with family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers, we often face the choice of acting out of love or selfish motives. Love promotes understanding, compassion, and harmony, while selfishness often leads to conflicts, misunderstandings, and distancing.

2. Decision Making: The choice between love and selfishness also influences our decisions in career, finances, leisure, and other areas of life. A God-centered life characterized by love often leads to decisions that consider the well-being of others and promote community.

3. Community and Society: Love and selfishness directly impact the functioning of communities and society as a whole. Communities built on love, care, and solidarity are often more harmonious, supportive, and resilient to challenges.

4. Spiritual Development: In faith, choosing love over selfishness is central to our spiritual maturity and closeness to God. The Bible teaches us that God is love (1 John 4:8) and that to become more like Him, we must grow in love. This often requires us to let go of our ego, deny ourselves, and devote ourselves to God and others in humility and love.

5. Meaning and Purpose in Life: Choosing love over selfishness gives our life a deeper meaning and purpose. It allows us to be part of something greater, serves a higher goal, and leaves a lasting legacy of love that extends beyond our earthly life.

Overall, Lesson 2 challenges us to reflect on our daily decisions, actions, and relationships in light of the central question of love or selfishness. By choosing love and integrating it into our daily life and faith, we can not only enrich our own lives but also exert a positive influence on our community and the world around us.

The suffering of Christians serves not only as evidence of their innocence but also as a seed that promotes the growth of faith.

1.What value does persecution have? Why do you think God allows His people to suffer sometimes? And even if in some cases, like in the early church, good could come out of it, what about times when it seems like nothing good has come from it? Why is the personal experience of God’s love so crucial in such situations to maintain faith?

The questions about persecution and why God allows suffering are profound and often controversial topics in the Christian faith. Here are some thoughts on this:

1. Value of Persecution:

• Strengthening of Faith: Persecution can strengthen and deepen faith by forcing believers to engage deeply with their convictions and consciously choose their faith.

• Testimony for Faith: Persecution can be a powerful testimony for faith. When Christians remain steadfast under pressure, it can inspire and lead others to faith.

• Focus on the Eternal: Persecution reminds believers that their true home is not in this world but in heaven. It promotes the attitude that material losses and sufferings are temporary compared to the eternal hope in God.

2. Why does God allow suffering?:

• Free Will: God has given humans free will. This means people have the freedom to make good or bad decisions, sometimes leading to suffering.

• Maturation and Character Building: Suffering can also serve as a means for maturation and character building. Through difficulties, we can learn to be patient, loving, humble, and steadfast.

• Mysteries of God: There are many things we cannot fully understand about God’s plan and intentions. Sometimes God allows suffering to fulfill greater purposes that remain hidden to us.

3. No Visible Good: There are times when it seems like nothing good has developed from suffering and persecution. In such times, the personal experience of God’s love is crucial to maintain faith.

• Deep Relationship with God: In times of darkness, the personal experience of God’s love can provide comfort, hope, and strength. It reminds us that God has not abandoned us, even if we cannot see or feel it.

• Eternal Perspective: God’s love helps us maintain an eternal perspective. Even if we suffer in this world, there is an eternal reward and promise of life with God.

In summary, while persecution and suffering are difficult to endure, they also offer opportunities to deepen our faith, testify, and draw closer to God. In difficult times, the personal experience of God’s love is crucial to maintain faith and hope.

2.If a friend were to ask you the following question, what would you answer: “Where is God in my suffering? If He loves me, why am I going through such a difficult time?”

The question about God’s presence in suffering is one of the most profound and challenging questions in faith. Here is a possible answer you could give to a friend:

______________________________________

I understand how difficult it must be to go through a challenging time and wonder where God is in all of it. It’s important to know that God’s love doesn’t necessarily mean we will be spared from difficulties. In the Bible, we see that many faithful people of God have also gone through tough times.

Firstly, I want to emphasize that God is not the cause of suffering. The world we live in is characterized by sin, imperfection, and the consequences of our decisions. But God is there to accompany us and comfort us in our suffering.

Secondly, the Bible shows us that God is with us in the midst of suffering. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Even if we sometimes feel that God is far away, Scripture assures us that He never leaves us.

Thirdly, God can work through suffering and difficulties to shape and mature us. There are times when we learn patience, endurance, compassion, and other valuable traits through suffering.

Lastly, I want to emphasize that our experience of suffering and difficulties can also give us a deeper insight into God’s love and care. It is often in our toughest moments that we develop a deeper, more authentic relationship with God and experience His love and care in new ways.

It’s okay to have questions and feel distant from God during difficult times. But please remember, you are not alone. God is always there, ready to listen, comfort, and help you through this challenging time.

______________________________________

It is important to respond with empathy and understanding, as suffering and faith are very personal in such moments. It is about offering support and hope without trivializing the other person’s feelings and experiences.

3.How can our local community become a caring community that makes a difference in the world? Discuss how we can practically apply this week’s reading.

Becoming a caring community that makes a difference in the world requires both individual and collective efforts. Here are some practical steps a local community can take to implement the principles of love and care discussed in this week’s reading:

1. Building Community:

• Host regular community events where members can get to know each other better.

• Create opportunities for shared activities and services to foster cohesion and unity within the community.

2. Caring for the Needy:

• Establish a community service that addresses the needs of the poor, sick, and disadvantaged in the community.

• Organize regular visits to the sick, single, or elderly members of the community to provide companionship and practical assistance.

3. Education and Awareness:

• Offer educational programs and workshops that inform community members about the importance of love, selflessness, and care.

• Organize discussion forums and Bible studies that address topics of suffering, faith, and God’s presence in difficult times.

4. Practical Love in Everyday Life:

• Encourage community members to show acts of kindness and love in their daily lives.

• Provide support for families in need, single parents, or people going through personal crises.

5. Public Testimony:

• Engage in local community projects and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life in the community.

• Use social media and other platforms to share stories and testimonies of love and care, spreading the message of hope and faith in the wider community.

6. Continuous Self-reflection and Adaptation:

• Regularly review and evaluate community activities to ensure they are effective and meet the needs of community members.

• Be open to feedback and suggestions from the community to continually evolve and grow.

By implementing these steps and actively promoting love, care, and practical assistance, the community can have a positive and significant impact in the world and be a living testimony to the love and light of Christ.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-2-the-central-issue-love-or-selfishness-2-6-summary/