Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
April 11, 2022: SOAP #4512:  1Samuel 11-12; 1Chronicales 1; 2Corinthians 11

SCRIPTURE:  2Corinthians (NIV) 11:13 For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, masquerading as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15 It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.

OBSERVATION: God is truthful and faithful to us.  The Bible reveals flaws in some of the major characters.  God does not rely on perfect people; only Jesus is without sin.  The Bible reveals truth about the enemy of our souls.  He is a great pretender.  He pretends to be good.  He pretends to be an “angel of light.”  But Satan hates God and longs to destroy God’s most cherish creation.  He has no care for man, except as a tool to cause God pain.  If pretending to be good helps Satan convince us to do what he wants, then he will put on a mask pretending to be acceptable, holy and even loving.    

APPLICATION: Some organizations, have separate manuals for leaders to study and read.  Their leaders receive special training to prepare them for leadership.  In the church there is only one Manual, the Bible!   The oldest and newest members all read the same Bible.  The youngest believer and the seasoned leader all read the same Bible. 

Those who have made themselves familiar with the scriptures should never follow false leaders; the Bible gives the requirements for leaders.  People who love the Bible should be able to identify the “pretenders.”  God cares about His people and protects them with the truth of His Word. 

PRAYER:  Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word.  You understand your creation; you know how we can be led astray.  You carefully provided for us in the scriptures.  Holy Spirit, stir our spirit to read and apply the Bible.  Amen

Pastor Leon
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