Discerning Truth: Abiding in Christ Amid Deception

Summary

Today, we celebrated the work of Joel and Lauren, our Missionaries of the Month, who are serving in a unique way by combining Bible translation with agricultural development—meeting both the spiritual and physical needs of communities around the world. Their ministry is a vivid reminder that the abundant life Jesus offers is not limited by geography or language, but is meant for every person, everywhere. We prayed over them, asking God to protect, guide, and use them as they resource others and expand their impact.

Turning to Scripture, we explored 2 John 1:7-13, where John warns about “deceivers” who deny the true nature of Jesus and “receivers” who must be careful about what and whom they welcome into their lives. John’s context was the rise of Gnostic teachers who denied that Jesus came in the flesh, but the warning is just as relevant today. Many groups—like the LDS church and Jehovah’s Witnesses—present themselves as Christian but fundamentally deny core truths about Jesus’ divinity, the sufficiency of Scripture, and salvation by grace alone. These groups, like the deceivers in John’s day, “go out” with zeal, but their message is built on additions to or deviations from the teaching of Christ.

We considered the marks of deceivers: they go out energetically, often motivated by a need to earn favor with God, and they go beyond the boundaries of Scripture, adding new revelations or alternative texts. Scripture is clear—God’s Word is complete, and we are not to add or subtract from it. The challenge is not just external; we all face the temptation to adjust God’s Word for our own comfort or convenience.

On the other side, we are all “receivers”—constantly taking in information, ideas, and influences. John’s call is for us to be careful and intentional about what we receive, especially when it comes to spiritual truth. Early Christian hospitality was more than politeness; it was a public endorsement. We must be discerning, not giving a platform to false teaching, but instead abiding in the teaching of Christ. This requires intentionality—filling our minds and hearts with God’s Word, evaluating our daily habits, and choosing to abide in Jesus, who alone offers real, abundant life.

Key Takeaways

- The Abundant Life of Christ Is for All
God’s vision for abundant life is not limited to a particular culture, language, or region. The work of Joel and Lauren reminds us that the gospel addresses both spiritual and physical needs, and that we are called to partner in God’s global mission. Abundant life in Christ is a gift meant to be shared with every person, everywhere, in tangible and holistic ways. [28:18]

- Deceivers Go Out and Go Beyond
False teachers are marked by their relentless activity and their tendency to “go beyond” the teaching of Christ, often adding new revelations or alternative scriptures. This is not just a historical issue; it is a present reality, as seen in groups that claim Christian identity but deny foundational truths about Jesus. The test of any teaching is whether it abides in the complete, unaltered Word of God. [46:45]

- The Danger of Subtle Additions to God’s Word
It is easy to spot overtly false teachings, but the more subtle danger is when we, even unintentionally, add to or adjust God’s Word for our own comfort or convenience. Scripture repeatedly warns against this, calling us back to the sufficiency and authority of what God has already revealed. The Holy Spirit persistently draws us back to the truth, inviting us to trust and obey what God has said, not what we wish He had said. [47:54]

- Receivers Must Be Careful and Intentional
We are constantly receiving—information, influences, and ideas. John’s warning is to be vigilant about what and whom we allow to shape our faith. Being a careful receiver means guarding our hearts, being discerning about spiritual influences, and not giving a platform to those who undermine the gospel. This is not about being inhospitable, but about protecting the integrity of our faith and the community. [54:54]

- Abiding in Christ Requires Daily, Intentional Choices
Abiding in Jesus is not a passive process; it requires daily, intentional decisions about what we consume, meditate on, and prioritize. Evaluating our habits—what we read, listen to, and dwell on—helps us remain rooted in Christ and resistant to deception. The invitation is to start today, not waiting for a new year or a perfect moment, but to intentionally receive and abide in the truth of Christ, who alone gives real life. [58:09]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:30] - Missionary of the Month: Joel and Lauren
[03:10] - Celebrating Partnership in Global Mission
[05:00] - Prayer for Joel and Lauren
[06:30] - Introducing Baby Naomi
[08:00] - Paired Identities in Scripture
[10:00] - Deceivers and Receivers: 2 John 1:7-13
[12:00] - The Context: Gnostics and Modern Parallels
[14:00] - Comparing Gnostics, LDS, and Jehovah’s Witnesses
[17:00] - The Marks of Deceivers: Going Out and Beyond
[20:00] - The Futility of Works-Based Religion
[23:00] - The Sufficiency and Authority of Scripture
[26:00] - Receivers: The Call to Discernment
[29:00] - Intentional Habits for Abiding in Christ
[32:00] - Invitation to Respond and Next Steps
[34:00] - Communion, Baptism, and Closing Prayer

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

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### Bible Reading

2 John 1:7-13 (ESV)
For many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not confess the coming of Jesus Christ in the flesh. Such a one is the deceiver and the antichrist. Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we have worked for, but may win a full reward. Everyone who goes on ahead and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God. Whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house or give him any greeting, for whoever greets him takes part in his wicked works. Though I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink. Instead I hope to come to you and talk face to face, so that our joy may be complete. The children of your elect sister greet you.

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### Observation Questions

1. According to 2 John 1:7-13, what are the main characteristics of the “deceivers” that John warns about?
2. What does John say is the consequence of “going on ahead” and not abiding in the teaching of Christ?
3. In the sermon, what modern groups did the pastor compare to the Gnostic teachers of John’s day, and why? [[38:20]]
4. What does John instruct believers to do when someone comes who does not bring the true teaching about Jesus?

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why does John make such a strong distinction between “deceivers” and “receivers”? What is at stake for the church if this warning is ignored? [[36:01]]
2. The sermon mentioned that deceivers “go out” and “go beyond” the teaching of Christ. What does it mean to “go beyond” Scripture, and why is this dangerous? [[46:45]]
3. The pastor said that early Christian hospitality was more than politeness—it was a public endorsement. How might this principle apply to the way we interact with spiritual influences today? [[50:06]]
4. The sermon highlighted that even Christians can be tempted to “add to or adjust God’s Word for our own comfort or convenience.” What are some subtle ways this can happen in our lives? [[47:54]]

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon celebrated Joel and Lauren’s ministry, which meets both spiritual and physical needs. Is there a way you can tangibly support God’s mission—locally or globally—this month? What would that look like for you? [[28:18]]
2. The pastor warned about groups that “go beyond” the teaching of Christ by adding new revelations or alternative scriptures. Have you ever encountered teaching or media that seemed Christian but actually contradicted core truths about Jesus? How did you respond? [[46:45]]
3. The sermon challenged us to be careful about what and whom we “receive” into our lives. What are some influences (books, podcasts, social media, relationships) that you regularly allow to shape your thinking? Are there any you need to reconsider? [[54:54]]
4. The pastor shared a story about a conversation with Jehovah’s Witnesses and how the answer to “Why should we let you into heaven?” revealed a works-based mindset. If someone asked you that question, how would you answer? [[53:40]]
5. John calls us to “abide in the teaching of Christ.” What are some daily habits or routines you could start (or restart) this week to intentionally fill your mind and heart with God’s Word? [[58:09]]
6. The sermon suggested evaluating what you look at, read, or listen to first and last each day. What is one specific change you could make this week to be more intentional about what you receive? [[58:09]]
7. The pastor said, “Now is as good a time as ever to evaluate, to recommit to what you are intentionally receiving on a daily basis.” What is one step you will take this week to be a more careful and intentional receiver? [[56:54]]

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Devotional

Day 1: Abide in the Teaching of Christ for True Life
To abide in the teaching of Christ means to remain rooted in His truth, not straying after new or alternative doctrines that claim to offer enlightenment but actually lead away from God. The world is full of voices and teachings that promise fulfillment, but only by holding fast to the words and person of Jesus do we have both the Father and the Son. This abiding is not passive; it is an intentional, daily choice to fill your heart and mind with the truth of Scripture, allowing it to shape your beliefs and actions. In a culture that constantly tempts us to go beyond or add to what Jesus has said, we are called to return again and again to His Word, trusting that it is sufficient and life-giving. [37:08]

2 John 1:7-9 (ESV)
"For many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not confess the coming of Jesus Christ in the flesh. Such a one is the deceiver and the antichrist. Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we have worked for, but may win a full reward. Everyone who goes on ahead and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God. Whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son."

Reflection: What is one practical way you can intentionally abide in the teaching of Christ this week—perhaps by changing what you read, listen to, or watch first thing in the morning?


Day 2: Be Careful and Discerning Receivers
Every day, we are inundated with information, ideas, and influences—some true, some deceptive. As receivers, we are called to be careful and discerning, guarding our hearts and minds against teachings or influences that undermine the truth of the gospel. This means not giving a platform or endorsement to those who distort who Jesus is or what He has done, but instead being vigilant about what and whom we allow to shape our faith. Being careful does not mean being unkind, but it does mean being wise and protective of the truth entrusted to us, so that we are not led astray by persuasive but false teachings. [54:54]

Proverbs 4:23 (ESV)
"Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life."

Reflection: Who or what has the greatest influence on your beliefs and attitudes right now, and how can you be more vigilant in guarding your heart against deception?


Day 3: The Danger of Adding to or Going Beyond God’s Word
Throughout Scripture, God warns His people not to add to or take away from His Word. The temptation to seek something new, advanced, or more appealing than what God has revealed is as old as humanity itself. Whether through alternative scriptures, secret knowledge, or personal preferences, going beyond what God has said leads to confusion and error. Instead, we are called to trust that God’s Word is complete and true, and to measure every teaching and idea against it, returning to it as our foundation whenever we are tempted to stray. [47:33]

Deuteronomy 4:2 (ESV)
"You shall not add to the word that I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the Lord your God that I command you."

Reflection: Is there an area in your life where you have been tempted to add to or adjust God’s Word to fit your preferences or comfort? What would it look like to return to His truth in that area?


Day 4: Salvation Is by Grace Through Faith in Christ Alone
No amount of good works, religious effort, or personal striving can earn us a place with God. The only answer to the question of why we should be welcomed into heaven is Jesus—His finished work on the cross and His resurrection. Salvation is a gift to be received, not a reward to be achieved. This truth sets us free from the exhausting pursuit of trying to do enough and invites us to rest in what Christ has already done for us. [54:12]

Ephesians 2:8-9 (ESV)
"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast."

Reflection: Are you trusting in Jesus alone for your salvation, or are you still trying to earn God’s approval through your own efforts? How can you rest in His finished work today?


Day 5: Intentional Habits for Receiving God’s Truth
Being a receiver of God’s truth doesn’t happen by accident; it requires intentional habits and choices. The rhythms of your day—what you consume, what you prioritize, and how you start and end your day—shape your heart and mind. Now is always the right time to evaluate and recommit to practices that help you receive God’s Word and presence, whether that’s reading Scripture, worship, prayer, or gathering with other believers. Small changes in your daily habits can have a profound impact on your spiritual life and your ability to recognize and resist deception. [58:09]

Colossians 2:6-7 (ESV)
"Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving."

Reflection: What is one daily habit you can start or adjust this week to more intentionally receive God’s truth and presence in your life?

Quotes

Because when your faith is built on working in order to gain greater favor with God or to earn your salvation, this is the result. You're not necessarily doing it because of some compassion or love -fueled desire. You're doing it to gain your own standing with God primarily. You know, but the two true tests of any religion is does it work? [00:43:01] (25 seconds)  #FaithNotWorks Edit Clip

The truth is, all of us are receiving all the time. Anyone ever get overwhelmed or overstimulated by the amount of content, information, or sensory overload that you get in this world today? It's just me, or it's just my kids that are loud? Okay. Like, you do, right? You just get over inundated with this. We all receive all the time. And the word here is that receivers need to watch yourselves. Here's the point that I want to make, is that receivers are careful, or they should be. [00:49:35] (37 seconds)  #IntentionalReception Edit Clip

I'm not saying you should picture devil horns on these people. They're lost. They're as lost as lost can be. Because you know that's not the right answer, right? Because the only answer is because Jesus said I could come in. Like, that's the answer. It's Jesus and Jesus alone. Newsflash, you can't do enough good things to get in. You've got to trust in the one who did. Right? You've got to trust in the one who laid down his life for your brokenness, for your sin. Because it doesn't matter how many doors you knock on, that door's not going to open to you. Unless Jesus has your name on the list and says you can come in. [00:53:55] (36 seconds)  #ResistShinyDistractions Edit Clip

To abide means to hang on, to stay in, to be close. It isn't just about playing defense. It is about intentionally filling your mind, filling your heart with the things you know that God wants for you. If you're passive and just hoping to receive what God has for you, you're likely going to continue to be overwhelmed with the onslaught of deceiving going on around us. Not all of it intentionally deceiving, but deceiving nonetheless. [00:55:40] (29 seconds)  #AbideInJesus Edit Clip

So here's my challenge for you. Oftentimes people wait until the new year, maybe the start of school year to like start new patterns and habits and traditions or resolutions or whatever you call them. But now is as good a time as ever to evaluate, to recommit to what you are intentionally receiving on a daily basis. [00:57:14] (20 seconds)  #CarefulIntentionalLight Edit Clip

Maybe you need to change your alarm to a worship song, so the first thing you hear is something, like, full of joy. I don't know. Maybe prioritize church this summer, even when you're on vacation. Whatever you need to do to be intentional with what you receive, John encouraged us, abide in Him, Jesus, and His teaching. And that doesn't happen by accident or osmosis. [00:58:59] (26 seconds) Edit Clip

``Because contrary to what the deceivers may say, Jesus really did come in the flesh. He really did die a real death. He really did rise from the dead, conquer death and hell and sin, like only someone who is both God and man can do. And unlike what others may try to undermine, that's who He is. And He lovingly calls us to abide in Him. Moment by moment, day after day. Promises that we're not alone. Promises to walk with us through the journey of life. That if we abide in Him, He'll abide with us. And He calls those of us who don't know Him to come to Him. [00:59:32] (49 seconds) Edit Clip

Thank you again for meeting us here. Thank you for your word that is as true today as it was the day it was written. And God, I pray that as we go from this place that you'd help us to be receivers who are both careful and intentional about what you have for us, use us to be lights in dark places, and bring us back together next week in Jesus' name. [01:10:18] (20 seconds) Edit Clip