October 24, 2011 (Job 15, Acts 19-20)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “and from among your own selves men will arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them.” Acts 20:30 NASB
Observation: Paul was giving a warning to the Christians at Ephesus to watch out for those who would arise from their own to distort and draw away from the truth. They were wolves dressed in sheep’s clothing. They were always looking for a way to get people to follow them. The people in Ephesus were easily led astray by silversmiths that made idols for the people to worship. They made the idols for their own profit.
Application: There are many wolves in the church today as well. They cleverly disguise themselves as sheep by professing with their mouth Christ, yet their hearts are consumed with greed for filthy lucre. They lead the people astray by speaking words of encouragement without correction. They deceive people into worshipping them, instead of the God of heaven. I’ve seen many people defend these false Christians more than they would ever stand up for God. They are just like the silversmiths in Acts, they do it for the profit. Be on guard! Everything that glitters is not gold!
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for Your mercy and grace that we all need. Protect us I pray from the wolves dressed in sheep’s clothing that have infiltrated Your church. Expose them as what they are. Deliver those who have been blinded, bound and led astray! Father I pray for a filling of Your Spirit that causes us to discern clearly these who pervert the gospel of Christ. Provide us the courage to separate from them regardless of the mocking we will endure. Strengthen us to stand, in Jesus name, Amen!