Rejection of Truth Leads to Self-Deception
Apart from truth there is no freedom, and those who reject it are heading down the road of self-deception and bondage. Apparently, some feel safer ignoring the truth than listening to it. When a person believes a lie, or holds to false reasoning, they feel a certain stability in that system of belief. Truth upsets that applecart. It is important to note that initially one may feel unstable, but he or she will find firm footing by embracing truth.
Of course, others prefer to do their own thing with no consequences attached, which is why they reject the truth, while creating their own. This actually leads to dire consequences in the end, especially as it pertains to unrighteousness.
Unrighteousness is Deceptive
2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness (deception of wickedness) in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion (deluding influence), that they should believe a lie (or what is false): That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
It should be obvious, but unrighteousness or wickedness is very deceptive. Because it has no light, those who embrace it are blind. Even to the point where they themselves are considered darkness. That sounds strong, but Scripture makes it clear.
Ephesians 5:8 For you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light.
Before receiving Jesus Christ, we all were considered darkness. Notice this verse does not say, “were in darkness”; it says, “you were formerly darkness.” If one is not Light, one is actual darkness. Darkness is the absence of light.
Unfortunately, those who take pleasure in unrighteousness, are incapable of unconditional love. That’s not to say they’re incapable of affection, or doing good things for others; however, in the end it’s still about them. For example, when some are asked why they love another, a common response is, “they make me happy.” Some do for others in order to gain some sort of affirmation, even if it’s just for the thank you. The point is, unconditional love requires a relationship with God (see 1 John 4:16-19).
Even when it comes to philanthropy, as wonderful as it is, ultimately for many it’s about the recognition. It makes people feel good about themselves, and in some cases it’s tied in with salvation by works. Again, not to diminish the good done for others, but if it is truly altruistic, why are so many foundations named after the founders who are living? Jesus taught that we are to give in secret. What’s being said here is not referencing foundations named for those who passed away as a memorial to honor them.
Philanthropy does not balance out acts of wickedness. It does not compensate for destroying lives. Here’s one way unrighteousness deceives those who love it: they believe they’re okay as long as they do something “good.” It’s still a cloak used to cover their evil deeds. The only way out is repentance and forgiveness of sins through Jesus Christ.
Biblical truth is shrouded in love. God is Love, and He is Truth. These qualities are inseparable. If one loves unrighteousness, he does not love truth. Scripture warns about sowing what we reap.
Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap.
