[354 words]
We often hear the term “gaslight” referring to someone’s political speech, moral matters, theological ideas, or point of view. To gaslight is means to induce someone to question their sanity and grasp of reality by manipulating his or her perceptions.
Those who “gaslight” use propaganda, logical fallacies, and half truths to convince those they suppose are gullible to believe their agenda. They may rig the evidence by means of polls or tricks. Let’s remember the devil is full of strategic tricks in order to lie and deceive people (John 8:44; Ephesians 4:14; 2 Corinthians 11:3, 13-14). Satan constantly battles against God’s people (Ephesians 6:10-13).
Some study Bibles are filled with the gaslighting of false doctrines that make it seem baptism (the immersion of a penitent and believing adult) isn’t necessary to salvation when Scripture says plainly, baptism is necessary. Some study Bibles and popular evangelists say Jesus will return to the earth to reign for a thousand years. Yet the New Testament never teaches that. When He returns, we will meet Him in the air (1 Thess. 4:13-19) and the earth will be destroyed (2 Peter 3). Jesus is already reigning and has all power and authority (Matthew 28:18). He is Lord now.
The popular notion of gender-swapping denies the Scripture and reality in biology (Genesis 1:26-27). A baby in women’s womb is in her body, but the DNA says it is not her body.
The popular doctrine of “faith only,” citing John 3:16 and Romans 10:9-10, ignores many other passages (John 3:5 and 3:36) and doesn’t tell the whole truth. John 3:16 says nothing about our needing to love God (1 Corinthians 16:22), about needing to repent (Luke 13:3), or about obedience and baptism (John 3:5, 36; 8:51; Romans 6:1-18).
Just because a great number of people believe a certain doctrine does not make it biblical and acceptable in God’s sight. We must continue to study the Word of God to find the whole truth, not cherry pick ideas to the neglect of other important passages.
Philip Sanders
Edmond, OK