Don't Be Led Astray

II Peter 3:14-18 Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless; and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation—as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you, as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures. You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.

Once again, I want to caution us to be very careful. Careful about what you ask? Careful about being in God's Word, and careful about how we study it and apply it. We are called to be students of the Bible. We are to memorize it and be doers, not just hearers. Sadly, today we have many who are tossed about by every wind of doctrine because there is a lack of study and lack of desire to be in God's Word; opening themsleves up to accept the heresies of false teachers (2 Peter 2:1-3). These same people will seek out preachers who will tickle their ears with "feel good" messages that will lead them on a path to Hell. Peter warns that in these days there will be many who not only do not understand the Scriptures, but will also twist them. Knowing this, we should be extra diligent to study the Word, not for men's approval, but to be found acceptable before the Lord (2 Timothy 2:15). This is not for the purpose of salvation, as salvation is by grace and only in Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9; John 14:6). The bottom line is that we are living in troubling times and it's not just because society is going sideways. Unfortunately, it's also because many in the church are going sideways. If you know God's promises about His return and understand the times, based on the Word of God (not man's opinions), then there is no valid excuse for allowing ourselves to be led astray.

Today, God extends an invitation to you to accept His free gift of salvation (Romans 6:23). Will you accept it? Anyone who calls on Jesus, by faith, in repentance, confessing your sins, will receive eternal life. Do not put off calling on Him, and receive His free gift of salvation today (Romans 10:13).