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In the final episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane teaches that maturity is the sixth defense in guarding against deception, especially in the Christian faith. One of the primary reasons many people depart from the faith is immaturity - being carnally minded and lacking spiritual discernment.How can professing Christians embrace immorality, vote for leaders who oppose biblical values, and support unbiblical ideologies that celebrate sinful behaviors? The root cause of this departure often lies in a lack of genuine salvation and spiritual rebirth. Some attend church and try to live a moral life, mistakenly believing that this alone secures their salvation. True Christianity, however, involves a spiritual transformation through being born again, with God's Spirit dwelling within and empowering a new life in Christ.Even among those genuinely born again, many fail to transition from being new converts to becoming mature disciples of Christ. They remain spiritual infants, unable to properly understand and

In the nineteenth episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane teaches that the fifth defense against deception is to be a "doer of the word" and not just a "hearer only." This means actively living out and applying the teachings of the Bible, rather than simply listening or reading without putting them into practice (James 1:21-25).If you hear or read the Bible without mixing faith and obedience, it will not lead to transformation in your life. Someone who hears the word but does not act upon it is like a person who looks in a mirror, sees their reflection, but immediately forgets what they look like when they walk away.True faith requires doing "the work" by living out the teachings of Jesus and the principles found in God's Word. This obedience and application of Scripture is a vital safeguard against deception, helping believers stay grounded in the "simplicity of Jesus" rather than being led astray.

In this compelling message on money and prosperity, Brother Duane teaches that God desires to bless His people. However, prosperity involves more than just finances. There are four key components of biblical prosperity: work, stewardship, discipline, and giving.Having a solid work ethic is essential. Thessalonians 3:10 states: "If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat." Work is part of God's image in mankind and vital in providing for oneself and others.Duane explores Jesus' parable of the unjust steward in Luke 16:9. In this parable, Jesus says to "make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon," explaining that we should use money to further God's kingdom and save souls. Duane underscores that how we handle money tests our faithfulness in spiritual matters.Discipline is the third component that can be challenging in today's digital age. True prosperity comes from God's perspective on money. Proverbs 10:22 says, "The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it." The power of gi

In the eighteenth episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane teaches how the Holy Spirit testifies of Jesus throughout the Scriptures, revealing Him as the fulfillment and embodiment of God's promises. Jesus is also the firstborn of fullness from which all spiritual blessings come (Ephesians 1:3, 1 John 2:24). The Holy Spirit shows us Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6) regarding our need for God.The Spirit reveals Jesus as the answer to the human condition – our deep spiritual bankruptcy, separation from God due to sin (Romans 3:23). Scripture testifies that humanity was spiritually destitute and hopeless before the grace of God through Christ's sacrifice (Ephesians 2:12). It reveals all people, even spiritual people like Abraham, David, and Paul, were spiritually bankrupt and in desperate need of divine rescue from sin's dominion (Romans 3:10; 9:16; 11:32).The Holy Spirit revealed God's supreme expression of love – He so loved us that He gave His only begotten Son to deliver us from si

In the seventeenth episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane teaches the importance of understanding the simplicity of Jesus as a defense against deception. He emphasizes that the Bible and scriptures should always lead us to Jesus. Studying the Bible without focusing on its author and subject, Jesus is like memorizing a restaurant menu without ordering a meal. People often focus solely on the literal interpretation of the word, missing the spiritual and life-giving aspects found in Jesus. This can lead to legalism, unkindness, and deception by not allowing the word to lead them to intimacy with Christ. Doctrines and traditions should guide us to Jesus.Only by keeping a simple focus on Jesus can we avoid being led astray. Believers should have a child-like, simple faith centered on Jesus as the living Word. Doctrines, traditions, and even the Scriptures themselves are meant to continually guide us to the person of Christ and abiding in Him, our sure defense against deception.

In the sixteenth episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane stresses the importance of making God's Word the ultimate authority in our lives. In a world with conflicting voices from our culture, leaders, and personal experiences, it's crucial to let God's Word be the ultimate truth. The simplicity of Jesus is a powerful defense against deception. In 2 Corinthians 11, Paul expresses concern that believers might be led astray from the simplicity that is in Christ, just as the serpent's cunning deceived Eve. This simplicity is not about lacking depth but about focusing on the fundamental truths of the gospel. Jesus' teachings are straightforward: love God, love your neighbor, and trust in His sacrifice for our salvation. Complexity can lead to deception. When we add to or complicate God's instructions, we open the door to misunderstanding and falsehood. For instance, in the Garden of Eden, Satan's tactic was to question and complicate God's simple command to Adam and Eve. By doubting and adding to God's word

In the fifteenth episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane continues teaching on the third defense against deception—the fear of the Lord. Our culture has become so saturated with deception that it has infected many in the church because they lack discernment. We need an awakening to come out from darkness and be separate as children of light.The first defense covered was the Word of God. The second defense was discerning the voice of God. This episode focuses on the third critical defense - the fear of the Lord. The fear of the Lord causes us to depart from evil rather than depart from the faith into deception.Jesus equated fearing the Lord with worshipping and serving Him alone (Matthew 4:10). Fearing God means being in awe of His glory, majesty, and greatness, as exemplified in the Psalms. It produces a thankful, worshipful heart.According to Proverbs 8:13, the fear of the Lord means hating evil, pride, arrogance, and perverse speech. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists things the Lord hates:A proud lookA lying to

In the fourteenth episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane continues his teaching on defenses against deception. The first defense is the Word of God. The second defense is discerning the voice of God. This episode focuses on the third defense - the fear of the Lord. Fearing the Lord means worshiping Him alone, as Jesus taught in Matthew 4:10. Worship acknowledges who God is - His love, holiness, and righteousness. As we gain revelatory knowledge of God's nature through Worship, we become more like Him. The fear of the Lord produces a thankful heart that glorifies Him even amid problems. Brother Duane acknowledges injustices have happened to him, but he chooses to see God's faithfulness because of his reverential fear of the Lord. We will ultimately face judgment before God—either the Great White Throne for unbelievers or the judgment seat of Christ for believers. No one will unjustly go to hell without clearly rejecting the knowledge of God revealed to them.The fear of the Lord protects us from being d

This powerful message addresses the often controversial topic of finances from a Biblical perspective. Brother Duane teaches that money is not just a natural issue but a spiritual one that impacts every area of life. There are common misconceptions about wealth and poverty, but scripture indicates that God desires to prosper His people.3 John 1:2 states, "Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers." God takes pleasure in the prosperity of His servants. Duane presents a holistic approach to biblical prosperity, highlighting four key components: work, stewardship, discipline, and charity. Stressing the importance of developing a strong work ethic, managing resources wisely, practicing self-discipline, and generous giving, he cautions against both the worldly pursuit of wealth and the religious notion that poverty is virtuous.Deuteronomy 8:18 says: "And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish

In the thirteenth episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane teaches about the fear of the Lord as a crucial defense against deception. Understanding and embracing the fear of the Lord is vital for believers to maintain their faith and avoid falling into deception.The fear of the Lord is not a tormenting fear but a reverent and holy respect for God. This reverence is essential for guarding against the prevalent deception in the world and within the church. To clarify the fear of the Lord, Duane refers to Jesus' response to Satan during His temptation in the wilderness.In Matthew 4:10, Jesus rebukes Satan, saying, "Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve." Jesus was quoting Deuteronomy 6:13, which states, "Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God, and serve him." Jesus equates the fear of the Lord with worshiping God, highlighting that to fear God is to worship Him and have a deep reverence for His holiness and authority.Reverence for God is crucial for believers. It leads them to depart

In the twelfth episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane emphasizes the crucial role of God's provisions in countering pervasive deception in society and the church. The supernatural joy from the Holy Spirit and the reverent fear of the Lord stand out as key defenses.Joy is one of the core "protocols" or languages of God's Kingdom, along with righteousness and peace. When believers experience a supernatural joy rising up within, that reflects the voice and pleasure of God leading them. This godly joy serves as an inward guide showing His approved path.The Bible states in Nehemiah 8:10 that the joy of the Lord is our strength. As we obey God and walk in His ways, we will sense a divine joy that strengthens and affirms we are following His voice. However, when we operate in disobedience, that joy is grieved and absent from our spirits.Philippians 2:12-13 reveals that God works in believers "both to will and to do for His good pleasure." We can discern His good pleasure toward our actions by monitoring this

In the eleventh episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane teaches that God has provided several defenses to protect believers from being deceived in our culture filled with deception. One of the most important defenses is understanding the protocols and language of God's Kingdom.Just like every earthly kingdom has its own protocols, laws, and language, the Kingdom of God operates by specific principles. Romans 14:17 lays out three core protocols of God's Kingdom - righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. These form the "language" by which God speaks to His people.Righteousness is how God communicates what is right and wrong. When making decisions, God's voice will align with what is righteous according to His standards in Scripture. Anything promoting unrighteousness, like immorality, hatred, or harm, comes from the voice of the deceiver, not God's voice.Peace is another way God guides believers. The supernatural peace of God ruling in our hearts serves as an "umpire," showing God's path versus

In the tenth episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane teaches the importance of God's Word and the peace of God as defenses against deception. God's Word is the first and foremost defense against deception, and it must be exalted above human reasoning, philosophies, and cultural influences. When the Word of God is neglected or rare, it becomes challenging to discern God's voice.A second defense is the peace of God. According to Colossians 3:15, believers are instructed to let the peace of God rule in their hearts. Peace is one of the primary ways God speaks and leads His people.There is a difference between being at peace with God and having the peace of God. Being at peace with God is the result of God making peace with us through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. However, having the peace of God is a fruit of the Holy Spirit that dwells within the born-again human spirit.The peace of God acts as an umpire or a voice of guidance in decision-making. When believers are about to make a wrong choice or

In the ninth episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane teaches that God has provided two critical safeguards to protect believers from deception. God's Word is the first defense against deception, which must be exalted above human reasoning, philosophies, and cultural influences. When there is a lack of God's Word, it becomes difficult to discern His voice, as seen in the story of young Samuel.The second defense is recognizing the voice of the Lord. According to Romans 8:14, believers must be led by the Spirit of God. However, many Christians struggle to recognize God's voice. God's voice is often a still, small voice within and may not always be in English. The language of the Holy Spirit includes dreams, visions, impressions, and a sense of peace. These are ways in which God speaks to His people. Believers should expect to receive dreams and visions from the Lord, as these are the primary language of the Holy Spirit.Additionally, God can speak through prophecy, godly counsel, spiritual leaders, and imp

Romans 8:1 explains that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. God condemned sin in the flesh of Jesus, freeing believers from any negative judgment from God.Brother Duane teaches that there are four primary sources of condemnation: the devil, our own hearts, others, and the law. Let's expound on each source and reference relevant scriptures.1. The devil, the accuser of the brethren (Revelation 12:10), tries to separate us from God through condemnation. Duane encourages believers to overcome the devil by mixing faith with the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony (Revelation 12:11).2. Our hearts, or conscience, can condemn us (1 John 3:18-21). Duane stresses the need to purge our conscience through the washing of the water of the Word (Hebrews 9:14), trusting God's forgiveness and acceptance, even when our hearts condemn us.3. Others may attempt to condemn us through negative judgments (2 Corinthians 7:2-3; Proverbs 17:15). Duane advises not receiving such condemnation, as Go

Romans 8:1 explains that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. God condemned sin in the flesh of Jesus, freeing believers from any negative judgment from God.Brother Duane teaches that there are four primary sources of condemnation: the devil, our own hearts, others, and the law. Let's expound on each source and reference relevant scriptures.1. The devil, the accuser of the brethren (Revelation 12:10), tries to separate us from God through condemnation. Duane encourages believers to overcome the devil by mixing faith with the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony (Revelation 12:11).2. Our hearts, or conscience, can condemn us (1 John 3:18-21). Duane stresses the need to purge our conscience through the washing of the water of the Word (Hebrews 9:14), trusting God's forgiveness and acceptance, even when our hearts condemn us.3. Others may attempt to condemn us through negative judgments (2 Corinthians 7:2-3; Proverbs 17:15). Duane advises not receiving such condemnation, as Go

In the eighth episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane teaches the importance of hearing God's voice as a defense against deception. God has provided safeguards in Scripture to equip us against being deceived. Satan has a history of questioning God's word, as seen with Eve, and deception can appear harmless but have harmful intentions, as described in Revelation 13. Believers can and should hear God's voice, but many struggle to recognize it.In John 10, Jesus said that His sheep hear His voice and know it. However, like Thomas, who said he didn't know the way, we may not consciously recognize what we already know in our spirits. We may dismiss or not discern God's voice without realizing it.God's voice is often a still, small voice within and is not always in English. The language of the Spirit includes dreams, visions, impressions, and a sense of peace. Believers have the capacity to hear God's voice and discern it from the voice of the stranger or the devil.Romans 8 explains that believers are led by

In the seventh episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane teaches the importance of having the proper and final authority in one's life, which he identifies as God and God's Word. He stresses that this is a crucial defense against the increasing deception and darkness infiltrating society and the church.The New Testament repeatedly commands believers to "be not deceived" (1 Corinthians 15:33, Galatians 6:7), indicating it is possible to fall into deception. This deception grows worse and worse, often directly or indirectly enabled by Christians who have compromised the truth.The first line of defense is to exalt God's Word as absolute, objective truth and final authority over every other voice, such as government, media, feelings, etc. Those who prosper spiritually all uplift Scripture's authority in their lives. There must be a final authority, and only God and His Word can rightly claim that position of supreme truth.A second vital defense is cultivating sensitivity to the Lord's still, small voice with

In the sixth episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane teaches the importance of guarding against deception, as God has provided multiple defenses against it. The New Testament repeated warnings about deceivers and being deceived, showing it is possible even for believers to fall into deception. The first defense God has given is His Word. If believers abide or continue in God's Word, Jesus said they are His disciples who will know the truth that brings freedom (John 8:31-32). By disciplining oneself in Scripture, one's discernment increases to recognize the fingerprints of the enemy versus the Holy Spirit.The story of Eve being deceived by the serpent in Genesis 3 illustrates how deception operates. Satan's tactic was first to question God's Word, get Eve to dismiss it, and then outright contradict it, tempting her to disobey by doubting God's goodness and care. This shows how compromising God's Word opens the door to deception.The Scripture of Jacob deceiving his father Isaac in Genesis 27 is also an e

In the fifth episode of "Defenses Against Deception," Duane warns about the increasing darkness and deception infiltrating the world and even the church. Many people, including believers, have departed from the faith by heeding deceiving spirits and doctrines of devils, just as the apostle Paul warned Timothy in 1 Timothy 4.According to 1 Timothy 3:15, the church is supposed to be the pillar and ground of truth. However, the church often propagates deception and doctrines contrary to God's nature, Judeo-Christian values, and a biblical worldview. This happens because people do not know the truth and are easily influenced by lies, fraud, and corruption from the world.The key defense against such deception is the Word of God. As Romans 1:18 states, God's wrath is revealed against those who suppress the truth in unrighteousness. Unrighteous people reject God's truth not just for themselves but actively work to suppress it. This is what is behind cancel culture - canceling and suppressing truth. Just as the devil