Each sermon is accompanied by a summary, practical points, and relevant scripture for deeper insight. Our study guides also include devotional content to help you apply biblical truths to your daily life.
In our journey of faith, we’re often confronted with the challenge of discerning truth from deception. This message delves deep into the heart of this issue, reminding us that our own hearts can be deceitful. Drawing from Jeremiah 17:9, we’re warned that the heart is ‘deceitful above all things.’ This profound insight challenges the popular notion of ‘following your heart’ and instead urges us to align our thoughts and actions with Scripture. The message explores the concept of truth, defining it through Psalms 119:142 as Yahweh’s law and embodied in Yahshua himself. We’re encouraged to exercise caution and apply biblical discernment in our spiritual walk, rather than relying solely on our emotions or cultural norms. This teaching serves as a wake-up call for us to critically examine our beliefs and the influences around us, always measuring them against the unchanging standard of Yahweh’s word.
Once you’ve watched the sermon, you will find the study guide located below the video.
Now that you've listened to the sermon, please use the study guide below to dive deeper into the topic.
The purpose of this Sermon Library is to support your spiritual growth as you revisit, reflect and meditate on the sermon topic, and study the Scriptures.
In each tab of the Study Guide, you will find information that will help you increase your understanding and knowledge of Yahweh’s Word and gain deeper insight into the Biblical topic covered.
You can engage in this study on your own or with a group.
It is our hope that these tools provide you with meaningful activities to help you on your walk, as you engage in them during the week and in days leading up to a Feast.
2 Timothy 2:15 – Study to shew thyself approved unto Elohim, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Study Guide
Summary – Read and reread to help you remember the answer to the question, “What was this sermon about?” so that you can deepen your understanding on this topic and can learn what to say in order to easily share this with others.
Points and Scriptures – Compare these to your notes. If needed, add the key points and Scriptures to your notes, for further review. Turn to each Scripture passage and read it. You may want to keep a notebook or journal, with Scripture Lists by topic. Scriptures that say (alluded to) next to it were included in content of the message (ex. appeared on a slide) without the Scripture itself being read.
Discussion Questions – Read one at a time, writing the answers down in your notebook or journal. Use your notes, as well as the information in the Points & Scriptures tab, to help you answer the questions.
Small Group Guide – We recommend that you engage in this activity during the week with a group of brethren, family members and/or friends.
Devotional – We recommend that you engage in these activities during the week and/or in days leading up to the Feast.
Sermon Summary: This sermon emphasizes the critical importance of discerning truth in a world filled with deception. The speaker highlights how our own hearts can deceive us and stresses the need to align our beliefs with Scripture rather than following our emotions or cultural norms. The sermon explores the nature of truth as defined by Yahweh’s Word and warns against the dangers of spiritual deception, urging listeners to critically evaluate teachings and stay rooted in biblical principles.
Key Points:
- Our hearts can be deceitful and should not be blindly trusted
- Truth is found in Yahweh’s Word (Torah) and in Yahshua as the living Word
- Deception is a primary tool of the adversary and can lead to spiritual blindness
- We must test all teachings against Scripture and not alter Yahweh’s Word
- Discernment is crucial in evaluating biblical teachings and avoiding false doctrines
- Love for truth is essential for salvation and avoiding delusion
Here’s a list of the scripture references mentioned or alluded to in the sermon:
- Matthew 24:1-4
- Psalms 119:142
- John 18:38
- John 14:6
- John 17:17
- John 8:32
- Matthew 5:18
- Jeremiah 17:9-10
- Proverbs 6:16-19
- Psalms 101:7
- Genesis 3:1-6
- John 8:44
- 2 Corinthians 4:3-4
- 1 Kings 13:11-24
- Isaiah 30:8-11
- 2 Timothy 4:3-4
- Deuteronomy 12:32
- Deuteronomy 13:1-5
- Matthew 5:17-19
- Deuteronomy 12:30-32
- 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12
- Proverbs 14:12
- Isaiah 8:20
- 1 Thessalonians 5:21
- Psalm 119:105
- Psalm 19:7
The sermon also discusses general biblical themes of truth, deception, and following Yahweh’s word. Some additional relevant verses that align with these themes, though not explicitly mentioned, could include:
- John 4:24 (worshiping in spirit and truth)
- Ephesians 4:25 (speaking truth)
- Proverbs 12:22 (Yahweh’s delight in truthfulness)
- 1 John 4:1 (testing the spirits)
- 2 Timothy 2:15 (rightly handling the word of truth)
- Hebrews 4:12 (power of Yahweh’s word)
How can we cultivate discernment to recognize truth in a world filled with deception, especially when our own hearts can be deceitful?
What are the dangers of ‘following your heart’ in spiritual matters, and how can we balance emotion with scriptural guidance?
How might our perceptions and biases influence our understanding of spiritual truths, as demonstrated by the audio illusion example?
In what ways does modern society echo the attitudes described in Isaiah 30, where people preferred ‘smooth things’ over hard truths?
How can we apply the ‘litmus test’ of Isaiah 8:20 to evaluate teachings and messages we encounter in our spiritual journey?
What are the implications of Yahshua’s statement that he came not to destroy the law but to fulfill it, especially in light of common misconceptions about the Torah?
How can we balance the need to ‘prove all things’ with maintaining faith and trust in spiritual matters?
What are some practical ways we can guard against deception in our spiritual lives, drawing from the examples and warnings given in the sermon?
How does understanding the difference between Greek and Hebrew thought patterns enhance our interpretation of scripture?
In what ways can we cultivate a love for truth that protects us from deception, as mentioned in 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12?
Here’s a small group guide based on the sermon:
Small Group Guide: Truth, Deception, and Discernment
Opening Discussion:
1. What does “truth” mean to you? How do you typically determine if something is true?
Key Takeaways:
1. Truth is rooted in Yahweh’s Torah (law) and embodied in Yahshua.
2. Our hearts can deceive us, so we must be cautious about “following our heart.”
3. Deception is a primary tool of the adversary and can lead to spiritual blindness.
4. We must test teachings against Scripture and not alter Yahweh’s word.
Discussion Questions:
1. The sermon states “Torah is truth” and “Yahshua is truth.” How do you understand this concept? How does it impact your view of Scripture?
2. Reflect on Jeremiah 17:9 – “The heart is deceitful above all things.” How does this challenge the popular advice to “follow your heart”?
3. Discuss the story from 1 Kings 13 about the prophet who was deceived. What lessons can we learn from this account?
4. How can we balance being open to new teachings while also being discerning and testing everything against Scripture?
5. The sermon mentions differences between Greek and Hebrew thought. How might cultural perspectives influence our interpretation of Scripture?
Practical Applications:
1. Practice using Isaiah 8:20 as a “litmus test” for teachings you encounter this week.
2. Choose one area where you’ve been “following your heart” and examine it in light of Scripture. Is any adjustment needed?
3. Implement one of the “key study tips” mentioned in the sermon when you study the Bible this week.
4. Reflect on areas where cultural influences might be shaping your understanding of Scripture. Pray for discernment.
Closing Prayer:
Pray for wisdom, discernment, and a love for truth. Ask Yahweh to reveal any areas of deception in your life and to guide you into deeper understanding of His word.
Here’s a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes from the transcription:
Day 1: The Power of Truth
Reading: John 8:31-32, John 14:6
Devotional: Truth is foundational to our faith and relationship with Yahweh. Yahshua declared Himself to be the way, the truth, and the life. As we seek to follow Him, we must anchor ourselves in His truth. Reflect on areas of your life where you may be believing lies or half-truths. Ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate any deceptions and to guide you into all truth. How can you actively pursue truth in your daily life? Remember, knowing and living in Yahweh’s truth brings true freedom.
Day 2: Guarding Your Heart
Reading: Jeremiah 17:9-10, Proverbs 4:23
Devotional: The Bible warns us that our hearts can be deceitful. While emotions are a gift from Yahweh, we must be careful not to let our feelings alone guide our decisions. Instead, we should filter our thoughts and desires through Yahweh’s Word. Take time to examine your heart today. Are there areas where you’ve been relying on your own understanding rather than Yahweh’s wisdom? Ask Yahweh to search your heart and to align your desires with His will. How can you practically guard your heart this week?
Day 3: Discerning Deception
Reading: Matthew 24:4-5, 2 Corinthians 11:13-15
Devotional: In a world full of conflicting messages, discernment is crucial. Yahshua warned His disciples to be on guard against deception, and this warning still applies to us today. False teachings often contain elements of truth mixed with error, making them particularly dangerous. How can you grow in spiritual discernment? Commit to regularly studying Yahweh’s Word and ask for the Holy Spirit’s guidance. When encountering new teachings or ideas, practice comparing them to Scripture. Remember, truth will always align with Yahweh’s character and His Word.
Day 4: Standing Firm in Yahweh’s Word
Reading: Psalm 119:105, 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Devotional: Yahweh’s Word is our ultimate authority and guide for life. It illuminates our path and equips us for every good work. In a world of shifting values and opinions, the Bible remains constant and true. How can you make Yahweh’s Word a more central part of your daily life? Consider establishing a consistent time for Bible study and meditation. As you read, ask Yahweh to speak to you through His Word and to transform your mind. What specific truth from Scripture can you cling to and apply today?
Day 5: Walking in Truth and Love
Reading: 3 John 1:3-4, Ephesians 4:15
Devotional: As followers of Messiah, we are called to walk in both truth and love. These two qualities should go hand in hand in our lives. Speaking the truth without love can be harsh and damaging, while love without truth lacks substance and direction. Reflect on how you can grow in balancing truth and love in your relationships. Are there areas where you need to speak truth more boldly or show love more compassionately? Ask Yahweh to help you embody His perfect blend of grace and truth in your interactions with others today.
