I mentioned in my last blog “Resisting the Devil” that there is a spirit of error that is very subtly invading the Body of Christ. This is a plan of the devil to devour and utterly destroy the Body of Christ. Recall how subtle the Devil was in tempting Jesus in the wilderness by quoting portions of the Word of God but leaving out a critical part to convince Jesus to put God to the test (Mt. 4:6-7; Deut. 6:16). We are told in Proverbs 1:10 to be on guard against sinners that would seek to entice us. Many times these ‘sinners’ are wolves in sheep’s clothing. Satan is the master at enticement and deception. He watches us closely and knows exactly what snare to set to draw us into error. This is how the human race was plunged into sin in the first place (Gen. 3:1).

There are 2 kingdoms – the kingdom of God (kingdom of heaven) and the kingdom of Satan (kingdom of darkness). The Spirit of truth is the Holy Spirit who guides everyone who has completely surrendered themselves to the Lordship of Jesus Christ (John 16:13). There is a difference between being saved and being surrendered. When we live outside of the influence of the Holy Spirit we are being led by the spirit of error, which is the same as being led by Satanic influence (John 8:44). Many who are being led by the spirit of error are so blinded by deception that it takes the Holy Spirit himself to intervene to bring the person into the knowledge of the truth. A prime example of this was Saul’s encounter on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:3-9). Some of the most zealous religious leaders are led by a spirit of religion which is one of the key fruits arising from the spirit of error. We can identify those who are being led by the spirit of error by their words, their lifestyles, their actions, their friends. The main way we identify the spirit of error is outlined in 1 John 4:1-6. We are also given instruction and insight in Matthew 7:15-20).

What then is the responsibility of those who do not want to be drawn into deception by the spirit of error? We must KNOW the truth of God’s Word. Anything that does not line up with God’s Word is error. We must read the Word for ourselves and meditate upon it day and night (Psalms 1:1-2). We must not seek counsel from men without discernment. This is the proverbial “blind leading the blind”. We must be aware that Satan has increased his attack on the Body of Christ in these days as we are unveiling his schemes and are becoming more aware of the power and authority we have over all the power of the enemy and are learning more and more how to walk in that power and authority. Do not sit passively under anyone’s ‘teaching’ no matter who it is. Test the spirit behind every prophecy and every word said to be from God. Even those coming from the pulpit. It can happen to each of us so we must be on constant guard that we ourselves do not allow the enemy to use us to bring deception. Do not ignore that inner prompting from the Holy Spirit that is telling you something is not quite right. Surrender yourself completely to the Holy Spirit so He can guide you into all truth.

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. (Hos. 4:6a)

And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. (John 8:32)

Shalom.