Deceiver…Truth Manipulated Causing Confusion

The next day, the one after Preparation Day, the chief priest and the Pharisees went to Pilate. “Sir,” they said, “we remember that while he was still alive that deceiver said, ‘After three days I will rise again.’ So give the order for the tomb to be made secure until the third day. (Matthew 27: 62-64a NIV)

Status Quo

And now, the rest of the story, a quote made famous by Paul Harvey. Jesus was seen as a deceiver by the chief priest and Pharisees. His death meant an end to their problem. Jesus would no longer present a threat to their status quo. What did Jesus do causing such a stir in these men? His walk was blameless, he had no sin. He fulfilled old testament prophecy. Jesus healed blind men, made the lame walk again. He carried God’s authority in Him, He was authority. Dead lives were brought back to life. The problem: Jesus challenged the Jewish establishment.

Deceiver

Leadership who crafted the plan to crucify Jesus, became concerned. Aware Jesus taught three days later, He would arise, they wanted his tomb secured. All bases covered, like good schemers do. Would the disciples steal Jesus’s body? No. Indeed, after three days, He did arise. His teachings are true. He never has been nor will Jesus ever be a deceiver. The chief priest and Pharisees thought so high of themselves, they lacked a soften heart to understand.

Biblical Truth

It’s remarkable all Jesus accomplished in His short time on earth. It’s even more astounding Jesus expects us to do greater things than He did. Be prepared, we will face resistance like Jesus. No time to be naive or dismiss what is happening in our own country and around the world. Knowledge is manipulated during deception. Biblical truth is threatened. Christians are pulled on what to believe. During this time, a deceiver will rise to manipulate truth. Let’s look Wednesday how God helps us overcome confusion while reading the Bible. It’s Motivating Monday! Be motivated to seek the Lord with all your heart, mind, and soul. Google last part of the previous sentence. A great place to start locating scripture.

Be encouraged!