The Difference Between Right And Almost Right

Grace Chapel Wilsonville

The Difference Between Right And Almost Right

How do we guard ourselves against subtle half-truths that look almost right?

October 13, 2024 • Mike Tatlock • 2 Timothy 2:25–26, 1 Timothy 4:1, John 14:30, 1 John 5:19, Ephesians 2:2

We often think the world we see is all there is, but the Bible reveals that we live in two realities—one physical, one spiritual. While we interact with the seen world every day, there’s an unseen spiritual realm that impacts us just as much. Understanding this is essential to navigating life’s challenges.

The Bible teaches that behind every situation in the physical world, there’s a spiritual battle. Angels work on behalf of God, while Satan and his fallen angels strive to oppose His plans. From the very beginning, Satan’s goal has been to lead humanity away from God by using lies and deception. And his tactics are often subtle—disguising evil as good and convincing us of "almost truths."

Charles Spurgeon said, “Discernment is knowing the difference between right and almost right.”

Satan thrives on counterfeits—ideas that sound good but are not aligned with God’s truth. His goal is to make us doubt God’s goodness, twist His word, and lead us to trust in ourselves rather than in Him. Discernment helps us spot these deceptions and keep us on the right path.

At the heart of spiritual warfare is the question of trust. Just as Satan tempted Eve to doubt God’s word in the Garden of Eden, he tempts us to question God’s goodness and take matters into our own hands. When we trust God and rely on His truth, we can stand firm against these attacks and experience the abundant life He promises.

So, how do we guard ourselves against these subtle half-truths that look almost right? Here are some practical steps to help you grow in discernment.

Replace lies with truth

Saturate yourself in God’s Word so that when the enemy tries to deceive you, you can stand on the truth. When Satan whispers lies about your worth or identity, remind yourself of what God says about you.

Replace worry with worship

Turn your focus away from fear and anxiety by choosing to worship God. Worship helps us remember who God is and re-centers our hearts on His power and goodness.

Replace pride with humility

Pride was Satan’s downfall, and it’s a key way he tries to trap us. Stay humble before God and others, recognizing that we need His grace and guidance every day.

Replace distraction with devotion

Our lives are full of distractions, but staying devoted to God’s purpose helps us keep the main thing the main thing. Prioritize time with God, and be mindful of the distractions that pull you away from Him.

Replace isolation with community

We need each other. Surround yourself with people who will encourage you, pray for you, and remind you of the truth when you’re in the thick of the battle.

In this unseen battle, discernment is our greatest defense. We must ask God for the wisdom to see through Satan’s schemes and the strength to stand firm. Spiritual warfare isn’t something to fear—it’s something to engage in with the confidence that God has already won the victory through Christ.

As we grow in our understanding of this reality, we can live with greater awareness, not only of the battle around us but also of the resources God has given us to overcome. Victory comes when we trust God, stand on His truth, and rely on His strength.

Snapshots Of Advent

December 22, 2024 • Jake Schwein • Luke 1:26–38, Matthew 1:18–25, Luke 2:8–20, Isaiah 9:6

In his sermon, Jake emphasizes the Christmas story's foundational importance, exploring themes of hope, peace, joy, and love within the context of Advent. He discusses the contrasting emotions often felt during the holiday season, such as despair and loneliness, stemming from societal pressures and the commercialization of Christmas. Through snapshots of Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the Magi, he illustrates how each figure teaches us valuable lessons about trust, obedience, worship, and passionate pursuit of Jesus. Ultimately, he invites everyone—whether close to God or feeling distant—to draw near to the manger and experience the transformative power of Christ this Christmas.

Pneumatology

December 15, 2024 • Mike Tatlock • John 3:16, Acts 1:4, Acts 1:8, 1 Corinthians 2:9

In his sermon, Mike discusses the importance of living with both consecration and captivation, framing them as essential postures for experiencing God’s presence and power in our lives. He emphasizes that true maturity in faith requires a childlike wonder and an expectancy of God's movement, highlighting the need for believers to invite God into every area of their lives. Mike shares impactful anecdotes to illustrate how we can actively engage with God and others, urging the congregation to break free from cynicism and busyness, which often dulls their spiritual sensitivity. Ultimately, he encourages everyone to cultivate a lifestyle of anticipation, being fully open to the revelations and amazing works that God has in store for them.

Ecclesiology - Part 3

December 8, 2024 • Mike Tatlock • 1 Peter 2:9, 1 Corinthians 1:27, Matthew 16:24–25, 2 Corinthians 8:1–5

In his sermon, Mike emphasizes the power of consecration, urging the congregation to offer their weaknesses, will, wealth, wilderness, and work to God. He highlights that while everyone has weaknesses, these can be the very areas through which God performs extraordinary deeds. As a response to the message, he encourages attendees to identify and write down what they are consecrating in their lives, moving from a focus on personal capacity to a posture of surrender. The message closes with a call for the Holy Spirit's guidance and the intention to cultivate a life that is flammable for God's power to ignite.