INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE STUDENT

My Study Plan:

The book of Revelation reveals Jesus Christ and shows how God’s final Gospel Day is understood through spiritual prophecy. Preparing a Study Plan before starting this Study Guide will assist you in completing it within a designated timeframe. It also helps in developing the discipline required for studying God’s Word effectively.

Proverbs 16:3:

Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.

My Study Guide Journal

Keep a record as you progress through your Study Guide, including the “Personal Responses”, for each section for future reference and goal setting.

Content

• INTRODUCTION
• PROFANE LANGUAGE
• ADDICTIVE BEHAVIOUR
• DISRESPECT
• REBELLION
• IDOLATRY
• FALSE RELIGION
• WORLDLINESS
• SUMMARY

Important Points:

• COGMA does not claim to be infallible or the authority.
• Infallibility and authority belong only to God and His Word.

COGMA therefore strongly advises that you prayerfully study the content of each Study Guide with the heart of a Berean: “Acts 17:10-12”.

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COGMA therefore strongly advises that you prayerfully study the content of each workbook with the heart of a Berean: "Acts 17:10-12".

INTRODUCTION

In today's world, Christians face numerous challenges that can weaken their faith and diminish their influence. Among these are the pervasive use of profane language, the rise of addictive behaviours, increasing disrespect, the subtle lure of worldliness, and the dangers of false religion and idolatry. Each of these issues affects how believers live out their faith and reflect Christ's character in a culture often opposed to biblical values.

Profane language has become increasingly normalised in modern culture, with swear words and irreverent expressions commonplace in movies, music, and casual conversations. However, the Bible emphasises that our words carry spiritual weight, revealing the condition of our hearts. Christians are called to avoid filthy communication and ensure that their speech honours God.

The rise of addictive behaviours, whether related to substance abuse, internet use, or other habits, is another significant issue. These addictions not only harm individuals physically and mentally but also impact their spiritual lives. The Bible teaches that anything that dulls our sensitivity to God's voice or weakens our self-control should be avoided.

Worldliness, or prioritising worldly values over spiritual ones, presents a subtle yet powerful threat to Christian living. The Bible warns against conforming to the world's patterns and urges believers to be transformed by renewing their minds. In confronting these issues, Christians are called to live lives of holiness, reflecting the integrity of Christ.

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PROFANE LANGUAGE

Today, profanity has become so common and accepted that it is hard to imagine a time when a person could be fined for using swear words. Profanity is frequently heard in movies, music, video games, and conversations at school, work, and social events. Common excuses for using profanity include everyone does it, it is a way to express anger, or it is just words. However, many do not realise that profane language is a powerful tool in the devil's workshop.

As society becomes increasingly desensitised to vulgarity, many overlook the spiritual consequences of careless speech. What was once considered disgraceful is now considered acceptable. Yet this shift has not lessened the impact of words on one's character and relationship with God. Profane language reflects a lack of reverence for God and can lead others astray, undermining Christian witness.

i.
What Is Profane Language?

The Bible refers to such language as filthy communication.

Colossians 3:8 says:

“But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.”

The word profane comes from the Latin word meaning outside the temple. In the Old Testament, anything unholy could not be brought into the temple, and anything sacred that was taken outside was considered profaning the holy. This same concept applies to using God's holy name irreverently.

Leviticus 22:32 says:

“Neither shall ye profane my holy name; but I will be hallowed among the children of Israel: I am the LORD which hallow you.”

Deuteronomy 5:11 says:

“Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain: for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.”

Both verses stress the importance of reverence for God's name. Yet today, many use God's name and Jesus' name carelessly to express surprise, anger, or other emotions. People also trivialise spiritual matters by referring to God as the man upstairs or by using phrases related to eternal punishment lightly. Interestingly, names of other religious deities like Buddha or Allah are rarely used as curse words. Even Christians sometimes fall into the habit of using profane language, with some ministers suggesting that cursing can help believers relate to others. However, this undermines the sacredness of God's name and dishonours the message of the Gospel.

ii.
The Danger of Substitute Words

The devil often convinces believers that using substitute words, also known as minced oaths or euphemisms, is acceptable because they are perceived as less offensive. However, changing a few letters does not change the intent behind the words. For instance, gosh is a euphemism for God, and darn replaces another curse word. While these words might seem harmless, they still carry the same negative intent.

Jesus warned that we will be held accountable for our idle words.

Matthew 12:36–37 says:

“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.”

Psalm 19:14 says:

“Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.”

iii.
The Condition of the Heart and Our Words

Matthew 12:34–35 says:

“O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.”

What we allow into our hearts will eventually manifest in our speech and actions. If our hearts are filled with anger, bitterness, or irreverence, our words will reflect these emotions.

iv.
Choosing Words That Build Up

Ask yourself: have questionable words become part of your daily conversations? Do you use words that your parents or pastor would be disappointed to hear? Does your language cause others to question whether you are truly a Christian? As Christians, we are called to be ambassadors for Christ.

Instead of using careless words, Christians are encouraged to use language that is encouraging and uplifting.

Titus 2:8 says:

“Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.”

Psalm 139:23–24 says:

“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

Let our words reflect a heart that seeks to glorify God and uplift those around us.

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ADDICTIVE BEHAVIOURS

We are living in what is called the Information Age, and now transitioning into the Artificial Intelligence Age, where data and personal information are constantly collected. Today, it is difficult to imagine a world without computers, mobile phones, and the Internet. However, amidst this progress, there is a dangerous tool of the enemy that must be addressed: addictive behaviours.

Teenagers' smartphones have become constant companions, with studies showing average pickups of more than 100 times a day. The average person now spends over four and a half hours on their mobile phone every day. Nearly 90 per cent of all smokers began smoking in their teens. One third of 15-year-olds have had at least one alcoholic drink. The average age young people are exposed to pornography is 12 years old, and 90 per cent of boys and 62 per cent of girls have viewed it before the age of 18. Over 80 per cent of teens aged 12 to 17 have gambled at least once in the past year. About 50 per cent of high school students do not believe it is harmful to experiment with illicit drugs.

These are all examples of addictive behaviours. Addiction is not limited to substance abuse like drugs, tobacco, or alcohol. It also includes gambling, viewing pornography, playing video games, excessive internet use, social media addiction, and smartphone addiction. The financial costs of treating addictions are staggering, reaching into the billions of dollars. Yet the devil whispers, this will not happen to you.

i.
What Is Addiction?

Addiction is the condition of becoming dependent on a habit-forming substance or activity. Over time, these substances or activities negatively affect a person's health, relationships, education, job, and finances. Many people fall into addiction due to peer pressure, curiosity, boredom, or a desire to escape pain, whether physical or emotional.

ii.
What Does the Bible Say About Addiction?

While you will not find a verse that says do not smoke or do not view pornography, God's Word contains many principles that apply to these and other addictions.

Romans 13:14 says:

“But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.”

The Bible warns us not to give room to the flesh, our natural, sinful desires. When you give in to these desires, you open the door to addictions.

1 Peter 2:11 says:

“Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.”

iii.
Addiction Affects Your Spiritual Life

The Bible teaches that any substance or activity that weakens your ability to hear God's voice or impairs your self-control must be completely avoided.

Ephesians 5:18 says:

“And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.”

This verse does not just speak about wine but applies to anything that dulls our sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. Addictions cloud our judgment, making it harder to hear from God and weakening our ability to resist sin. Proverbs warns of people under the influence of alcohol whose minds become unclear and who become vulnerable to foolish decisions.

Proverbs 23:29–33 says:

“Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine. Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder. Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things.”

Proverbs 20:1 says:

“Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.”

iv.
Overcoming Addiction

The best way to avoid addiction is to never give in to temptation in the first place.

1 Corinthians 10:14 says:

“Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.”

This means avoiding anything that takes the place of God in your life. It is not just about self-control; it requires daily reliance on Jesus Christ. If you have already given in to temptation and developed an addiction, here are steps to take.

First, ask God for forgiveness and strength through prayer, claiming 1 John 1:9.

1 John 1:9 says:

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Second, seek help from others. Do not try to face this battle alone.

Proverbs 27:17 says:

“Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”

Third, remove triggers. Identify what leads to your addiction, whether certain friends, places, or activities, and replace old habits with new, godly ones. Fourth, work on your heart, since your desires come from your heart.

Proverbs 4:23 says:

“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”

Many people feel hopeless when it comes to overcoming addiction, but remember this promise.

Philippians 4:13 says:

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

Through the power of Christ, you can break free from any addiction. God's strength is available to help you overcome, and His grace is sufficient for every need. There is hope and victory in Jesus.

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DISRESPECT

Socrates, a Greek philosopher who lived in the fourth century before Christ, is quoted as saying: children now love luxury; they have bad manners, contempt for authority; they show disrespect for their elders and love chatter in place of exercise. Children are now tyrants, not the servants of their households. They no longer rise when elders enter the room. They contradict their parents, chatter before company, gobble up dainties at the table, cross their legs, and tyrannise over their teachers.

Though attributed to Socrates more than 2,400 years ago, this description could easily apply to today. The prophet Isaiah saw similar behaviour in his own time.

Isaiah 3:5 says:

“The child shall behave himself proudly against the ancient, and the base against the honourable.”

Disrespect is visible everywhere, in movies, music, politics, and even in the workplace. The devil wants us to believe that disrespect is simply the new normal. But what does God's Word say about this?

i.
Examples of Disrespect in the Bible

Disrespect can be defined as failing to value someone or something properly. In the Bible, disrespect often leads to disobedience. Adam and Eve did not value God's command in the Garden of Eden, which led them to disobey. Cain disrespected God by bringing an inferior sacrifice, and this led to him disrespecting his brother's life by becoming the world's first murderer.

Genesis 4:9 says:

“And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: Am I my brother's keeper?”

Other examples of disrespect in the Bible include the young men mocking Elisha, whose disrespect resulted in swift punishment, as 2 Kings 2:23–24 records; Belshazzar's disrespect for God's sacred vessels at a feast, after which his kingdom was taken from him that very night, as Daniel 5:2–3, 30 records; Miriam and Aaron's disrespect toward Moses, which resulted in Miriam being struck with leprosy, as Numbers 12:1–2, 10, 15 records; and Jonah's disrespect for God's command, which led to the storm and the great fish, as Jonah 1:1–4, 17 records.

Pharaoh displayed blatant disrespect toward God.

Exodus 5:2 says:

“Who is the LORD, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go? I know not the LORD, neither will I let Israel go.”

Absalom showed great disrespect toward his father David by trying to steal the kingdom, and it resulted in his tragic death when his hair became caught in a tree.

2 Samuel 18:9 says:

“And Absalom met the servants of David. And Absalom rode upon a mule, and the mule went under the thick boughs of a great oak, and his head caught hold of the oak, and he was taken up between the heaven and the earth; and the mule that was under him went away.”

In all these examples, disrespect led to serious consequences.

ii.
Are You Being Disrespectful?

Although it is easy to assign disrespect to children and teenagers, it is an attitude and action that affects us all if we permit it. There will be times when we might feel angry or frustrated, but the problem starts when we allow those emotions to affect our attitude, words, and actions. Disrespect can manifest in obvious ways, such as saying you can't make me do it, but it can also be subtle, such as rolling your eyes, ignoring someone, or walking away when they are speaking to you. Disrespect appears in the classroom when students talk while the teacher is speaking; in the workplace through being late, gossiping, or being lazy; and in a church gathering through using a mobile phone or not paying attention.

iii.
Living a Life of Respect

The Bible emphasises the importance of showing respect and honour. God expects us to respect His Word.

Deuteronomy 12:32 says:

“What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it.”

We must also respect His name.

Psalm 29:2 says:

“Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name; worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.”

And we should also respect His church.

Ecclesiastes 5:1 says:

“Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil.”

According to the Bible, we are called to respect elders, parents as Exodus 20:12 commands, those in authority as Romans 13:1 instructs, and everyone without partiality. Albert Einstein once said, I speak to everyone in the same way, whether he is the garbage man or the president of the university. How do you treat those you look up to compared to those who seem less important? Peter summed it up perfectly.

1 Peter 2:17 says:

“Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.”

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REBELLION

Rebellion is defined as open resistance to lawful authority. During the teenage years, it is common to feel that you know what is best for you or to desire more control over your choices. But how do you handle these feelings when they arise? Rebellion is not confined to teenagers and young adults. It permeates throughout society when natural feelings of frustration turn into anger or bitterness, such as the feeling of not wanting to meet others' expectations or the thought of simply wanting to be left alone to make one's own decisions.

The Bible teaches that rebellion begins in the heart.

Matthew 15:18 says:

“But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.”

The real question is whether we will allow misunderstandings and hurt feelings to turn into bitterness, anger, and then rebellion. What steps will we take to prevent this from taking over our lives?

i.
Bible Examples of Rebellion

The Bible is full of stories about people who rebelled against God and suffered the consequences. King Saul, initially humble, sought the prophet Samuel's guidance. However, he eventually became overconfident and chose to disobey God. In 1 Samuel 15, Saul did things his own way rather than God's way, leading to his rejection by God. Ultimately, Saul's life ended in suicide on the battlefield.

Korah and his followers rebelled against Moses' leadership. As a result, the ground opened up and swallowed them, as Numbers 16:1–32 records. Absalom, David's son, rebelled against his father, trying to steal the kingdom. His rebellion ended tragically when he was caught by his hair in a tree and killed by David's men, as 2 Samuel 18:9–15 records. Each of these stories illustrates the dangers of allowing rebellious feelings to take root.

ii.
Symptoms and Warning Signs

God has promised that we do not have to be unaware of Satan's tactics.

2 Corinthians 2:11 says:

“Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.”

Warning signs to watch for include peer pressure, where it becomes difficult to stand out and be different when everyone around you is doing something wrong; difficulty communicating with parents or authority figures; frustration with leadership at school, work, church, or in politics; spiritual laziness in skipping Bible reading or prayer, since a weak Christian is more vulnerable to the devil's attacks; a weak personal relationship with God, where faith is borrowed from parents rather than developed personally; and difficult life situations such as divorce, neglect, or abuse, which can lead to feelings of depression and anger that quickly turn into rebellion.

iii.
What to Do About Rebellion

The best way to fight rebellion is to pray about every feeling of hurt, anger, and disappointment. When you feel misunderstood or depressed, ask God for help. Holding onto these feelings leads to disaster.

2 Corinthians 10:5 says:

“Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.”

Faith is something you must develop for yourself. Questions and doubts are normal, but if you handle them correctly, they will help you grow with strong convictions and morals. During the teenage years especially, work on submission and self-discipline, traits you will need for the rest of your life.

Lamentations 3:27 says:

“It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth.”

It is especially in the younger years that guidance from godly people and church leadership is needed.

Hebrews 13:17 says:

“Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account.”

And most importantly, submit to God's authority.

James 4:7 says:

“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

In time, submission to authority will bring greater understanding of what is right, what is wrong, and help you make the best decisions for your future.

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IDOLATRY

Idolatry often brings to mind images of stone, gold, silver, or wood statues worshipped in ceremonies, but in modern times, idolatry can be far more subtle and pervasive. To fully understand idolatry, it is important to first recognise that we were created to worship God.

Isaiah 43:21 says:

“This people have I formed for myself; they shall shew forth my praise.”

Revelation 4:10–11 says:

“The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.”

Just as a product is designed for a specific purpose, humans were created to serve and worship God. When we deviate from this purpose and begin serving something else, we engage in idolatry.

i.
Modern Forms of Idolatry

In the Old Testament, Israel frequently turned away from God to worship idols, hoping that these idols would bring them prosperity, offspring, or victory. Their worship became self-centred, focused on gaining personal benefits rather than glorifying God. Worship of idols is fundamentally self-serving, whereas worship of God is meant to focus on His greatness, love, and authority.

While worshipping physical statues is not as common today, idolatry exists in many forms. It includes anything that takes priority over God, such as material possessions, careers and ambitions, relationships, and personal success. These can easily become idols if they receive more attention, time, and devotion than we give to God.

Modern idolatry can be subtle and disguised as everyday desires or normal activities. The approval of others may become an idol when it dictates our decisions more than God's will. Entertainment can dominate our time, causing us to neglect spiritual growth. Success and money can replace our trust in God when we rely on them for security. These can divert our focus from God and lead us into spiritual emptiness.

ii.
Consequences of Idolatry

The Bible frequently warns of the emptiness that comes from idol worship.

Psalm 115:4–8 says:

“Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men's hands. They have mouths, but they speak not: eyes have they, but they see not: They have ears, but they hear not: noses have they, but they smell not: They have hands, but they handle not: feet have they, but they walk not: neither speak they through their throat. They that make them are like unto them; so is every one that trusteth in them.”

Idols, whether physical or metaphorical, offer no real power or fulfilment. Those who trust in them become like them, lifeless and void of purpose.

2 Kings 17:15 says:

“And they rejected his statutes, and his covenant that he made with their fathers, and his testimonies which he testified against them; and they followed vanity, and became vain, and went after the heathen that were round about them, concerning whom the LORD had charged them, that they should not do like them.”

When people chase after worldly things, they ultimately become vain like the idols they serve. Their lives become empty, as these things cannot provide the lasting fulfilment only found in God.

iii.
True Fulfilment in Worshipping God

True fulfilment comes from worshipping God and aligning our lives with His purpose. God created us to worship Him, and it is in fulfilling this purpose that we find meaning and satisfaction.

Psalm 37:4 says:

“Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.”

To guard against modern forms of idolatry, it is essential to examine our priorities, asking whether God is truly first in our lives or whether something else has taken His place; devote time to God through prayer, Bible study, and worship; and surrender personal ambitions and desires to God, seeking His will above all else.

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FALSE RELIGION

When a soul enters the kingdom of God, the joy in heaven is immense.

Luke 15:7 says:

“I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.”

However, after receiving this joy, believers must stay vigilant against the deception of false religion. Despite the wide variety of belief systems in Christendom, it is essential to discern and adhere to the true teachings of the Gospel. Paul's letter to the Galatians serves as a cautionary tale.

Galatians 3:1 says:

“O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?”

This highlights the risk of being led astray even while professing to follow Christ. It is possible to claim to follow Christ while being deceived by practices that may appear godly but lack true spiritual substance.

Proverbs 14:12 says:

“There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.”

2 Timothy 3:5 says:

“Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.”

i.
Good Works: A False Measure of Righteousness

Many religious people, like the Pharisees, rely on good works, such as tithes, prayers, fasting, and charity, to demonstrate their righteousness. However, Jesus made it clear that true righteousness goes beyond external actions.

Matthew 5:20 says:

“For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.”

Good works, while important, are not the foundation of salvation. Instead, they are the evidence of true faith. Believing that good works alone grant entrance into heaven is a mistake. True righteousness comes from a transformed heart and a genuine relationship with God.

James 2:26 says:

“For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.”

ii.
Rituals and Ceremonies

In some religious groups, rituals and ceremonies take on great significance, such as insisting on water baptism as a requirement for salvation, or adhering strictly to rules on dress or foot washing. While these practices may have value, they do not determine one's holiness or salvation. In the Old Testament, God rejected the Israelites' sacrifices when they continued to live in sin.

Isaiah 1:16 says:

“Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil.”

Through Christ, believers are freed from the bondage of ritualistic practices.

Colossians 2:13–14 says:

“And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross.”

iii.
Chasing Miracles and Manifestations

Some groups focus heavily on outward signs, paranormal events, and miraculous healings. Services where people seek miraculous manifestations can detract from the Word of God.

Matthew 12:39 says:

“But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas.”

If a religious group emphasises signs and wonders over the teachings of God's Word, it may be misleading. Miracles and manifestations should never take the place of biblical truth.

iv.
Entertainment and Emotionalism

In modern times, entertainment has taken over much of the church world. Services with loud music, light shows, and dramatic presentations can often distract from sound doctrine.

2 Timothy 4:3–4 says:

“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”

These emotional experiences may give temporary satisfaction but lack true spiritual growth. It is important to attend a church that follows the truth of God's Word, not one that prioritises entertainment.

v.
The Dangers of False Teachers

Matthew 7:15 says:

“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”

A true church will always follow the Word of God and the teachings of Jesus Christ, not rely on outward appearances or emotional appeal. As believers, it is critical to follow the Lamb wherever He leads. This means adhering to God's Word and avoiding deception.

Revelation 14:4 says:

“These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth.”

In future Study Guides, this series will explore how to identify the true New Testament church and distinguish it from counterfeit teachings, helping believers guard against false religion and remain rooted in the truth of the Gospel.

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WORLDLINESS

Worldliness can be understood as a way of thinking and living that opposes God's will and prioritises worldly values over spiritual ones. While some believe that separating from the world physically can shield them from worldliness, this approach does not address the heart of the issue. True separation from worldliness is about a transformation of the heart and mind.

i.
Separating from the World

In history, there have been extreme examples of people attempting to escape worldliness by physically separating themselves from society. Simeon Stylites, a fifth-century Christian, lived on a platform atop a tall pillar for 37 years. Despite his isolation, thousands of people flocked to see him, illustrating that merely separating oneself physically from the world does not guarantee a life free from worldly influences. Other groups have also attempted to escape worldliness by creating isolated communities, sometimes with dangerous outcomes, illustrating that the problem of worldliness lies within the heart, not in external circumstances.

Others have focused on outward practices like wearing certain clothing or avoiding material things in an effort to appear unworldly. However, the Pharisees lived strict lives, following many rules and avoiding contact with sinners, yet their hearts were far from God. True separation from worldliness begins in the heart and is a matter of spiritual transformation.

ii.
Love Not the World

1 John 2:15 says:

“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.”

In this passage, John speaks not of the physical world or humanity, but of a worldly system that opposes God. This system values sin and makes righteousness seem strange. Worldliness is a mindset that places more emphasis on the things of the world than on the things of God. An example of this is the rich young ruler in Matthew 19:16–22, whose love for his wealth prevented him from following Jesus.

Worldly people often move horizontally, pursuing selfish desires, rather than vertically, striving for godliness. 1 John 2:16 lists three aspects of worldliness: the lust of the flesh, desiring physical pleasures; the lust of the eyes, craving what we see but do not have; and the pride of life, boasting about accomplishments or possessions. All these stem from a desire to conform to the world, which is contrary to God's will.

Ephesians 2:2 says:

“Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience.”

iii.
The Snare of Worldliness: Demas

Demas, mentioned in Colossians 4:14 as a co-worker of Paul, later forsook him because he loved the world.

2 Timothy 4:10 says:

“For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica.”

Demas serves as a warning that even believers deeply involved in ministry can be ensnared by worldly desires if they do not guard their hearts. Worldliness often begins in the heart when one's love for God grows cold, and worldly attractions such as riches, fame, or worldly goals become more appealing. The process can begin subtly through neglecting prayer, Bible reading, and church attendance. As spiritual priorities fade, the world begins to take precedence, and a love for the world creeps into the heart.

James 4:4 says that friendship with the world makes one an enemy of God.

James 4:4 says:

“Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.”

iv.
Avoiding Worldliness

But how can Christians live and work in a world full of worldliness without becoming tainted by it? Jesus prayed that His followers would be in the world but not of the world.

John 17:16 says:

“They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.”

Through salvation, daily prayer, and Bible reading, Christians can be in the world yet set apart from it. Being spiritually minded impacts every aspect of life, including the way we talk, the way we dress, our attitudes, and the choices we make.

Romans 12:2 says:

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”

Resisting worldliness requires active effort. Begin each day by putting on Christ through reading His Word and praying. This will help you adopt godly values and reject the spirit of the world. Worldliness is more than just outward behaviour or following a set of rules; it is a matter of the heart. Christians must continually guard their hearts and minds against the influence of the world by staying rooted in God's Word, maintaining an active prayer life, and living by the Holy Spirit's guidance.

Romans 13:14 says:

“But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.”

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SUMMARY

i.
Key Issues Christians Face Today

This Study Guide has discussed several important challenges that Christians face in their daily lives. The six snares of profane language, addictive behaviours, disrespect, worldliness, idolatry, and false religion each pose distinct threats to living a Christ-centred life and maintaining a strong Christian witness.

ii.
Profane Language

The use of profanity has become widespread in modern society. However, the Bible warns against filthy communication and stresses the importance of using words that honour God. Profane language, including substitute words or euphemisms with the same harmful intent, reflects a lack of reverence for God and can lead others astray. Christians are called to speak words that build others up and bring glory to God, and Jesus' warning that every idle word will be brought into account makes this a matter of eternal significance.

iii.
Addictive Behaviours

Addictions to substances, social media, gambling, pornography, and other behaviours are prevalent in today's world. The Bible teaches that anything that weakens our self-control or dulls our sensitivity to God must be avoided. Christians must recognise the dangers of addiction and seek God's strength to overcome them, using the practical steps of confession, accountability, removing triggers, and guarding the heart. Reliance on Christ brings freedom from destructive behaviours.

iv.
Disrespect

Disrespect toward authority, elders, and God is increasingly common in modern culture, but as the examples of Cain, Belshazzar, Absalom, and Miriam show, the consequences have always been severe. The Bible provides a clear call to honour all people, including parents, elders, those in authority, and every person without partiality, as 1 Peter 2:17 sums up.

v.
Rebellion

Rebellion begins in the heart when hurt feelings and frustration with authority are allowed to fester into bitterness and anger. The examples of Saul, Korah, and Absalom all illustrate that open resistance to lawful authority leads to destruction. The path of victory requires bringing every rebellious thought captive to the obedience of Christ and submitting first to God, after which the devil must flee.

vi.
Idolatry

While ancient idolatry involved physical statues, modern idolatry takes many forms, including prioritising material possessions, careers, relationships, or the approval of others over God. The Bible teaches that anything taking precedence over God becomes an idol and leads to spiritual emptiness. Psalm 115 warns that those who trust in lifeless idols become like them. True fulfilment is found only when God is at the centre.

vii.
False Religion

False religion may present itself as godliness but lacks true spiritual substance. Whether through over-reliance on good works, ritualistic practices, the pursuit of signs and wonders, or emotional entertainment, the consistent danger is that outward appearances replace sincere relationship with God. Christians must stay rooted in biblical truth, follow the Lamb wherever He leads, and test every teaching by the Word of God.

viii.
Worldliness

The lure of worldliness, prioritising worldly values over spiritual ones, poses a subtle yet significant danger. True separation from worldliness is not found through physical isolation or strict external rules but through a transformation of the heart and mind. Demas is a sobering warning that even those actively involved in ministry can be ensnared. Daily putting on Christ through reading His Word and prayer is the active and ongoing resistance required.

ix.
Conclusion

Each of these six issues requires Christians to rely on God's guidance and strength. By remaining vigilant and faithful to biblical teachings, believers can overcome these challenges and live lives that reflect the holiness and integrity of Christ. This is the calling of every person who has been born again and entered the kingdom of light.

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