TEXT: Gal. 6 :7

"Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

(Garden of Eden—Gen. 3)

(1) From this we learn who is its author:

1 Satan—Rev. 12:9—And by his power and influence:

2. Evil men—2 Tim. 3:13—This disproves popular theory that this state of things will grow better as the day of the Lord’s appearing draws nigh.

3. False teachers—2 Cor. 11:13.

(2) WHO is deceived?

1. He who hears and performs not—James 1:22

2. The loose tongued 1:26.

3. The puffed-up, proud, egotist Gal. 6:3.

4. Those who claim to be sinless 1 Jno. 1:8.

5. He who expects to reap something he did not sow Gal. 6:7.

(3) But HOW are we deceived?

1. By smooth words Rom. 16:18.

(a) Example: Adam and Eve (Gen. 3);

(b) Disobedient prophet at Bethel (1 Kings 13);

(c) Many disciples of Christ would not sell the truth at any price; but we may be deceived;

2. By false promises 2 Pet. 2:18, 19.
3. By empty words Eph. 5:6.
4. By self Cor. 3:18.

(4) Any good reason for avoiding Deception? We hear God’s witnesses on subject:

1. It is a command James 1:16.
2. Lest our religion be vain James 1:26.
3. We cannot mock God Gal. 6:7.

4. To prevent the wrath of God upon us—Eph. 5:6.

"Deceivers are the most dangerous members of society. They trifle with the best affections of our nature, and violate the most sacred obligation." (Crabbe.)

Closing Scriptures: 2 Cor. 11 :13

Paul’s definition of vain religion (1 Cor. 15:13-17).

Hear, believe and obey false teaching—result—child of the Devil.

Hear, believe and obey truth—result—child of God.

Choose ye this day whom ye will serve (Josh. 24:15).