The Bible teaches that men can be deceived by Satan (Revelation 12:9,10). Deception in vital matters pertaining to the soul means damnation.
The religious world is deceived if it believes that God approves of religious division (denominationalism). The Divine Word teaches such division is sinful (1 Corinthians 1:10-13; John 17:20,21; Ephesians 4:1-4).
The world is deceived if it believes that the purpose of the church is to serve merely as a “food, fun and frolic” center. While it is true that joy and gladness are characteristics of the Christian’s life, the purpose of the church is to preach the gospel to all the world. The church is “the pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15), not the playground of the world. Much study, suffering and sacrifice will be required to proclaim the glad tidings of salvation (Romans 12:1-2; 2 Timothy 2:2-3).
The world is deceived if it believes salvation is by faith alone. The Bible says men are saved “not by faith only” (James 2:24).
The world is deceived if it believes “once saved, always saved” is a true doctrine. To the contrary, “he that endureth to the end shall be saved ” (Matthew 10:22).
Bill Dillon
from Gospel Gems, Vol. 1