Deceivers

For many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. Look to yourselves, that we do not lose those things we worked for.—2 John 1:7–8 NKJV

Born in 1469, Niccolò Machiavelli entered government service in Florence, Italy, when young. He gained valuable experience and insights into human nature.

In 1512, he was removed from his position after the Medici family gained power. Attempting to win favor, he wrote books filled with insights he had gained. His goal was to help rulers know how best to govern. He failed to win back his position, but his writings helped him gain prominence and influence with ideas that often worked.

Machiavelli advocated a calculating, manipulative attitude that has been adopted throughout history by politicians, generals, and others. Even today, his influence can be seen in military and political campaigns and strategies.

He observed that most people are satisfied with appearances and can be fooled by clever slogans that seem to be true even when they are not. He encouraged leaders to placate people with promises that would satisfy their desires, even resorting to deception and misleading ideas.

Every Christian needs to realize that the world is filled with many deceivers—people who seek to convince us to believe their messages that may sound good but are not true.

The Bible urges us to realize that people may try to deceive you. Remember that Satan himself can disguise himself as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). Stay alert. Ask God for discernment. Fill your life with His Word. Be on guard, always ready.

Reflection Question: What can you do to ensure you are not easily deceived?