"A gift from our community of faith to you. Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is devoted to preparing outstanding leaders for Christ’s church. One of the ways we nurture leaders is by building a loving community of faith and extending God’s grace to others. In this season of anticipation, we extend God’s grace to you and invite you to explore this book of Advent devotions. Through this collection, please join us as we prepare to receive God’s greatest gift—the birth of Jesus Christ."
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Advent Devotional for December 16
• Matthew 24:1-14
Matthew 24: 4 - "And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you"
Over the past few years, I have developed a love for watching high-stakes poker. Admittedly, I am not a gambler but will splurge a dollar or two playing Mega-Millions after it reaches an astronomical amount. I enjoy watching professional poker players engage in psychological warfare. The best players learn and master the art of deception. Among their extensive arsenal, bluffing remains their primary weapon. These professional tricksters live by George Costanza’s famous words to Jerry Seinfeld, “It’s not a lie if you believe it.”
In perilous times, like today, a lackadaisical Christian life is at extreme risk of being deceived. I confess there are times when I become so comfortable crafting excuses to avoid spiritual practices that I deceive myself. I always find time for family, career, and responsibilities, but not for seeking the Truth. I am sure faithful Christians were a part of the Jonestown, Branch Dividian, and Zion Ranch communities; unfortunately, somewhere along the way they were deceived.
Jesus challenges us to pay attention by expecting rumors of war, waxed hearts, and forthcoming persecution. Amazingly, under any other circumstance, panic and anxiety would be appropriate, but Jesus instructs us not to worry. After all, the moment the heavenly trumpet sounds and the sky cracks open, the Eternal Dealer will command all to show their cards, causing Satan to crumble like a coward. For the world will finally know that Satan’s true power, though deceiving many, was merely a bluff.
Almighty God, grant thy servant the ability to see beyond the false prophet. Quicken my ears to hear the Shepherd’s voice. Nourish my heart with the courage that flows from the authority of scripture, so I might stand boldly against the wiles of evil. In Jesus name, Amen.
William West (MDiv’16)
Admissions Associate for Campus and Community Partnerships
For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.
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