18.10.2020

Why are believers easily deceived and manipulated in Churches, rather than those in the world?

Bible passages: 
Hosea 4:6, 1Peter 5:8, 1Samuel 3:9-10,  Psalm 113:8, Isaiah 30:4-5, Mark 16:15-18, John 2:14-16, 2Corinthian 13:5.

Discussion:
Many Christians are easily manipulated because they don’t bother to read the bible; they rely so much on Pastor or other Church leaders to read and interpret the bible to them. If we take time to read the bible ourselves we will be able to interpret the bible and know what to do or step to take in any given situation.
Hosea 4:6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge …..

Some people are easily manipulated because they see their Pastors as god; they listen to whatever they are being told whether right or wrong.
Another reason why believers are easily deceived is because the devil is always after true Christian to persecute and bring distractions in the Church of God.
1Peter 5:8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
One need to be:
• Spiritually minded - accept Christ as one’s saviour
• Read the word of God,
• Spending time in the presence of God,
• Listening to the voice of God. 1Samuel 3:9-10 Samuel heard the voice of God.

However, when you are focused and of good Spirit the devil will not come near. There are important checklist that Christians needs to be aware of:
Origin: Where you are coming from?
Meaning: Purpose of being a Christian
Morality: How do we live? What moulds you as a Christian?
Destiny: Know where you are going?

If Christians are able to ask these questions then they will know that their aim is salvation through Christ. Some Christians that has wrong mentorship put more focus on their Pastors rather than God. The Christians that are not studying the bible are vulnerable. Likewise Christians that runs after miracles instead of allowing miracles to follow them.
John 2:14-16 some people go to Church for wrong reasons; like buying and selling.
Not all the people that goes to Church are Christians; not everyone in the house of God are dedicated believers which means such will be easily deceived.
2Corinthians 13:5 examine yourselves to see if your faith is genuine.
In conclusion, those who are of genuine faith cannot accept deceits as the Holy Spirit - in them; will be able to convince, discern, teach and direct.

Praise God🙏🏽