Every one of these writers gives a strong warning against false prophets and teachings. We probably should not leave the study without addressing the warnings, and the dangers associated with giving credibility to deceivers. The study guides agree that at the time these books were written, the most prevalent such movement was Gnosticism. This movement, or religion, is still around today and is too complex to define in the space and time available here. The Gnostics believe an imperfect god created the world in his image and while there is a perfect being, there are multiple gods in varying degrees of perfection between here and there. Their aim is to become fully spirit, they believe they are trapped in this world and in a physical body. They oppose rules, law and government. Many engage in self-mutilation and food deprivation. Regarding Christ, they deny His deity and teach He (spirit) only entered the body of Jesus between his baptism and then left before He was crucified. Wikipedia has a comprehensive article on Gnosticism. It seems the strongest of language is not inappropriate for those who lead others astray in the name of Jesus. Peter calls them (among other things) servants of corruption. (2 Peter CH 2). There is a reference in each book, also, to those who have knowledge of Christ and the turn from it. Except for James, (5:19-20), it almost sounds like there is no hope for those souls. (2Pet 2:20-22; 1 John 2:18-23; 1 John 5:16; 2 John 7-11; Jude 3-16, as we'll see tomorrow). We are given the strongest warning to be careful that we are not deceived. We are living in the age when many shall be deceived and we don’t have to look very hard to find evidence of this in many “Christian” organizations and churches. That is why we MUST become more and more familiar with and knowledgeable about what is contained in this WOrd. We need to be sure we are proving all the spirits we encounter. Satan will come as an angel of light and will deceive many. But not those who take advantage of the Word God has made so available to us. What a privilege to be able to read and study and grow every day!