Day 160/260: Read 2 Peter 2

In stark contrast to the precious promises of God, Peter warns against false prophets and false teachers “who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction.”

We can see the grace and mercy of God throughout the New Testament, but there are unscrupulous men and women who will blaspheme God and His revealed gospel. “By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words.”

In this age of instant news through the avenues of television and the internet, and the especially rapid spread of false information via social media, it is no surprise that more are being deceived by false teachers.

Promoters of “health and wealth” prosperity gospel messages are exceedingly popular, but in truth “they speak great swelling words of emptiness.” They line their own pockets but fail to make followers of Jesus. Sure, the people who listen to these false teachers believe they are following Christ, but they have been duped by the false teachers, and in the end will hear the words, “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!” (Matthew 7:23).

Friends, I urge you to investigate what you are being taught, and “search[] the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things [are] so” (Acts 17:11).

Memory (Recite to a friend without looking)

1 Peter 3:15. But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.

Pray

Pray for those who believe falsehoods, that they may turn from the lies and seek the truth.