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We're happy to announce that a new evening discernment class is being offered here in Fresno, beginning October 12th. This six-week biblical training course will focus on the vital subjects of truth and error and how to discern between the two. Come and be equipped with the necessary tools for discernment, as you grow in your understanding of God and His Word.
The class is being hosted by Samaritan Women Ministries where our space is limited, so don't wait to reserve your spot.
Hope is essential to life and relationships. But, all “hope” is certainly not equal. There are actually three different categories when it comes to hope: no-hope, false-hope, and true-hope.
One of the benefits of our website is that we are able to see what words or phrases are used on various search engines to find “Hope for Life” on the internet. From these phrases [e.g., “how to find hope in this life”], we can tell that many hurting people are in the no-hope category and are desperately looking for real hope. But what kind of hope are they finding on the web? Even more important, are they able to distinguish God’s true hope from the near infinite counterfeit and seductive “false hope” ideologies?
Detecting falsehood is not as easy as some may think. Errant teachings and books don’t come with warning labels, “Beware of the many subtle lies and errors inside.” False teachers never say, “By the way, I am a false teacher so don’t believe what I am saying.” Instead, they usually always come across as helpful, as if they are providing hope, and they even appear as if they are close to Christ:
For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, masquerading as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. [2 Corinthians 11:13-15]
One of the main reasons people seek counseling, or visit a church, or read a particular book—and the reason for many of our common struggles—is because we lack genuine hope that leads to lasting solutions. Biblical hope, then, is the key to life. Therefore, the quality of our lives—and even life itself—depends on which kind of hope we buy into and live for, whether it is false or true, of the world or of the Word.
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. [Romans 15:4]
More often than not, however, the kind of hope discovered is a false, but charming, “hope” that “works” for a little while, but causes far more grief and destruction in the end. This just might be where most people, including Christians, are deceived. Most people determine if a proposed hope is true or false by the immediate fruit —particularly popularity or how it makes them feel—rather than the ultimate fruit in the end or if it is biblical.
There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death. [Proverbs 14:12]
Because of what is at stake, biblical discernment cannot be emphasized enough (although it may just be the single most neglected treasure in the church today). Relationships and lives depend on how well we carefully filter ideas and teachings through God’s Word of truth.
Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers. [1 Timothy 4:16]
If we recommend a book, ministry, or teaching to another person as helpful and potentially bringing “hope,” we absolutely must thoroughly examine it biblically first to see if it is true. You and I bear enormous responsibility for whatever we promote to others (e.g., Matt 5:19; Lk 17:1-2; Jas 3:1). On the other hand, countless blessing are discovered when we love and “save” others—according to the truth.
My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins. [James 5:19-20]
If Hope For Life’s concern for individuals, families, marriages, truth, and the church as a whole resonates with you—and if you are grieved over how “results-based” ideas and culture-driven trends are exalted while truth is given a back seat—then this course and curriculum on biblical discernment is for you. If you are passionate about truth and about loving others with God’s Word of truth, we would love to have join us for the next six weeks as we grow in our understanding of true hope and lasting change.
Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. [Ephesians 4:14-15]
Registration is available for a donation of any amount to
the ministry of Hope For Life, and includes detailed course curriculum
and homework.
Books will be printed for those who have registered
- costs which are covered by Hope For Life. With this in mind, we ask that
before you register, you prayerfully commit to attend and complete the
coursework.
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