SOULS IN RUINATION OR SOULS IN SALVATION By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: 2 Corinthians 6:17 - "Therefore, come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you."
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INTRODUCTION
In the times we are living in, many have chosen to yield to the influence of demon spirits rather than the Spirit of God. These individuals are caught up in sin, deception, and rebellion against God’s righteousness. They pretend to be believers, but in reality, their hearts are far from Him. The enemy has strategically positioned such individuals to infiltrate the assemblies of true believers, seeking to weaken their faith and spread spiritual corruption.
This teaching seeks to expose the dangers of associating with such people, encourage discernment among believers, and emphasize the necessity of living a holy life. The battle between light and darkness is intensifying, and the people of God must stand firm, refusing to be entangled in the ruinous ways of the wicked. As we navigate through this lesson, let us seek divine wisdom to remain in God’s salvation rather than fall into ruination.
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THE DANGERS OF ASSOCIATING WITH THE UNGODLY
Scripture: Psalm 1:1-2 - "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or stand in the way of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on His law he meditates day and night."
The ungodly are not merely people who are ignorant of God’s ways but those who actively oppose them. They mock righteousness, promote sin, and influence others to deviate from the path of holiness. The Lord warns us not to associate with such individuals lest we become infected by their sin. A true believer must be vigilant and discerning, identifying and distancing themselves from those who seek to corrupt their faith.
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HYPOCRITES IN THE CHURCH: PRETENDING TO BE CHRISTIANS
Scripture: Matthew 7:21-23 - "Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven."
Many people claim to be Christians, yet their lives do not reflect the fruits of true salvation. They love to be among the believers, but their intentions are not pure. Their hypocrisy is dangerous because it misleads the weak in faith and disrupts the unity of the church. Such people do not love God but rather seek to serve their own selfish desires. The Word of God calls us to be cautious and not be deceived by such individuals.
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DISCERNING SPIRITS: IDENTIFYING THE ENEMIES OF FAITH
Scripture: 1 John 4:1 - "Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world."
Spiritual discernment is crucial for every believer. Not everyone who claims to be a follower of Christ is genuinely submitted to Him. The devil strategically places people in churches to sow confusion, cause division, and weaken the faith of many. Believers must rely on the Holy Spirit to expose the deception of false brethren and reject any association that threatens their spiritual purity.
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GOD'S CALL TO SEPARATION FROM WICKEDNESS
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 6:14-15 - "Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?"
The Lord commands His people to separate themselves from ungodliness. This does not mean that we hate sinners, but rather that we must not partake in their evil ways. Allowing sin to take root in our lives leads to spiritual decay and eventual destruction. A true child of God is called to holiness, obedience, and faithfulness to His Word.
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SUMMARY
The spiritual battle between righteousness and wickedness is intensifying. Many people have chosen the path of ruination by aligning themselves with the forces of darkness. Hypocrites infiltrate the church to deceive the true believers, while the enemy seeks to weaken the faith of the righteous. However, God calls His people to remain steadfast, discerning, and separate from evil. The choice is clear—souls can either be in ruination or in salvation.
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CONCLUSION
As believers, we must be careful not to be influenced by the ungodly. The Lord warns us about associating with those who mock righteousness, deceive others, and seek to corrupt the faith. Instead, we must seek to live holy lives, depending on the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength. God desires that His people walk on the path of righteousness, free from the entanglements of sin.
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CALL TO ACTION
Examine your associations. Are you surrounded by people who strengthen your faith, or are there influences in your life that are pulling you away from God? Make the decision today to separate yourself from ungodly influences and commit fully to the Lord. Seek the Holy Spirit's guidance daily, and stand firm in righteousness.
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FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Do not be discouraged by the evil in the world. God remains sovereign, and He will preserve those who remain faithful to Him. Stay committed to His Word, and you will be a beacon of light in the midst of darkness. You are not alone—God is with you, strengthening and guiding you each day. Be a soul in salvation, not in ruination.
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SALVATION PRAYER
If you have never given your life to Christ or if you have drifted away and want to return to Him, say this prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come before You today acknowledging that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins and rose again for my salvation. Today, I surrender my life to You, Lord Jesus. Come into my heart, be my Lord and Savior, and fill me with Your Holy Spirit. Help me to walk in righteousness and remain faithful to You all my days. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
