North Charlottesville church of Christ

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Lesson 2 - The Character and Fruits of the Deceiver (Hypocrite)

Larry Rouse
03/20/25 - Wed Bible Study

Series: Taking Deception Seriously

Meeting Purpose

To continue the study on deception, focusing on the character and fruits of deceivers within religious contexts.

Key Takeaways

• Deceivers often appear as "false prophets in sheep's clothing" but have selfish motives

• Key traits of deceivers: hypocrisy, narcissism, divisiveness, flattery, private criticism of others

• Vigilance and discernment are needed to identify deceivers, especially during leadership transitions

• Maintaining honesty, openness and focus on God's word is crucial to avoid being misled

Topics

Characteristics of Deceivers

• Come as "false prophets in sheep's clothing" (Matthew 7:15-20)

• Hypocritical - motives differ from outward appearance

• Narcissistic traits - grandiose self-image, need for admiration, lack of empathy

• Use flattery, private criticism, and stirring up anger to gain influence

• Aim to "draw away disciples after themselves" (Acts 20:30)

• Often correctly diagnose problems but offer harmful solutions

Tactics Used by Deceivers

• Attempt to separate people from those who could help them

• Stir up bitterness and anger, especially toward leadership

• Flatter and court people zealously, then exclude those who don't follow

• Make sweeping criticisms of churches/doctrines to appear enlightened

• Exploit times of transition or voids in leadership

Biblical Examples

• Pharisees - outwardly righteous but inwardly corrupt (Matthew 23:27-28)

• Absalom - exploited dissatisfaction to turn people against David (2 Samuel 15:1-6)

• False teachers in Galatia - turned people against Paul (Galatians 4:16-17)

Guarding Against Deception

• Maintain honesty, openness and focus on Scripture

• Be wary of those who criticize privately or say "don't tell others"

• Look for fruits of character over time

• During transitions, be alert for those seeking to fill voids inappropriately

• Correctly diagnose problems but seek godly solutions

Next Steps

• Continue developing discernment to recognize deceivers

• Foster a church culture of openness, honesty and proper conflict resolution

• Be vigilant during times of leadership transition

• Maintain focus on God's word and character as the standard, not personalities