Arborists know that a majestic oak tree may appear to be in the prime of health and yet have a hidden disease lurking inside. A strong gust of wind might be all it takes to topple the giant. With closer observation the decay inside could've been detected. Hopefully nothing or nobody will be nearby when it eventually falls to the ground. This type of accident could cause a lot of damage to any thing in its path.
Dentists know that teeth sometimes appear healthy and white and still harbor decay from cavities. They can look perfectly straight and evenly spaced too. It doesn't change the fact that they are in need of repair. If nothing is done then pain will probably be the first sign of a hidden problem that is getting worse. Afterward the proof of disease will be revealed as blackened areas emerge through the white enamel.
A house may appear well designed and built, with a beautifully landscaped yard and still have secret structural issues. What's more, the perfect paint color on the exterior and the wrap around porch can't negate the cracked foundation, or any other underlying problems. Entering the front door may reveal some of its defects-such as shaky floors and flimsy walls. Yet, if you haven't observed or inspected it for yourself you may assume the house is in great condition and safe.
The three examples above show us that the natural sight or senses can be easily deceived. If we never search deeper than what can be seen on the surface, then we are in danger of missing the truth of everything. So the oak tree finally fell over, crushing a car beside of it. The tooth became very painful and later had to be pulled. After awhile the house was found to be unsafe and had to be condemned.
There's a type of so called ministers that appear so strong and powerful in the things of God's kingdom. They may be very engaging and seem sincere too. Plus, they may sound knowledgeable and look like believers to us. Sadly though, they use their beguiling ways to trap people in their web of lies and deceit. Jesus addressed a religious sect who resemble the above group:
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. Matthew 23:27
The false prophets and teachers of today dress different and talk different than the Pharisees but they have the same hypocritical and deceptive spirit. If you want to know more then read below-
We human beings have a tendency to take anything that we want to believe at face value. More so, we are inclined to not dig too deep into a matter that might disrupt our preconceived ideas. ('If it looks good then it is must be good'.) In everyday choices this could end in serious consequences. In the spiritual realm it could end with eternal significance for our souls. That is why we should follow the Berean's example:
10 And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews.
11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Acts 17
And ye shall know the Truth, and the truth shall make you free. John 8:32
