How can we guard against being deceived by "persuasive arguments" today?
Colossians 2:4 "I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments." ESV NLT "I am telling you this so that no one will be able to deceive you with persuasive arguments."
Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
Daniel Veler
Supporter
You asked, “How can we guard against being deceived by 'persuasive arguments' today?" People are deceived by others because their answers stem from human reasoning. Scriptures must be explained by other scriptures, not through human reasoning. Most people prefer seeking understanding from men rather than from the Lord Himself. The apostle wrote the following: 2 John 2:27: But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. What others may say might not be the truth revealed by the Lord, but rather their own human reasoning. This is why the apostle encourages you to seek the truth from the Lord. He will reveal it to you if you simply ask him to. Many have misunderstood the scriptures because they haven’t sought it through the Lord but instead relied on their own reasoning to interpret its meaning. Always strive to know the truth from the Lord. God is not the author of confusion.
Jack Gutknecht
Supporter
How can we guard against being deceived by "persuasive arguments" today?
Try to make these habits happen daily:
1. Read and meditate on a portion of Scripture every day. I love memorizing Bible verses! And reciting them!
2. Memorize key verses that confront today’s cultural lies.
3. Talk over new ideas with mature believers before embracing them.
Paul notes that false teachings, however strict or spiritual-sounding, "lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence" (Col 2:23). A persuasive argument that produces pride ("Knowledge puffs up," 1 Cor 8:1), anxiety ("Do not be anxious," Phil 4:6, by contrast), judgmentalism ("Let no one pass judgment on you," Col 2:16), or enslavement to rules ("Why do you submit to regulations?" Col 2:20-22) is suspect. The truth of Christ produces thankfulness ("abounding in thanksgiving," Col 2:7), freedom ("the truth will set you free," John 8:32), and love for others ("faith working through love," Gal 5:6)).
Add your Answer
All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.
A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.
- Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
- Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
- Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
- Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
- For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible