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  DISTINGUISHING BETWEEN JACOB AND ESAU
  by A.W. Tozer
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Summary: We must be cautious and discerning in our lives, recognizing
that error often imitates truth and seeking guidance to avoid deception.

Topics: "Discernment", "Truth vs. Deception"
Scripture References: Genesis 27:22

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DESCRIPTION
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A.W. Tozer emphasizes the challenge of distinguishing between truth and
error in the Christian life, noting that both can appear similar and
often coexist in the same environments. He warns that deception can be
subtle, as seen in the biblical accounts of Isaac mistaking Jacob for
Esau and the disciples failing to recognize Judas as the traitor. Tozer
urges believers to remain vigilant and discerning, as appearances can be
misleading, and what seems comforting may not always be from God. The
sermon calls for a deeper examination of our spiritual companions and
influences, reminding us that true wisdom comes from God.

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CONTENT
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There are areas of Christian thought, and because of thought then also
of life, where likenesses and differences are so difficult to
distinguish that we are often hard put to it to escape complete
deception. Throughout the whole world error and truth travel the same
highways, work in the same fields and factories, attend the same
churches, fly in the same planes and shop in the same stores. So skilled
is error at imitating truth that the two are constantly being mistaken
for each other. It takes a sharp eye these days to know which brother is
Cain and which Abel. We must never take for granted anything that
touches our soul's welfare.

Isaac felt Jacob's arms and thought they were the arms of Esau.

Even the disciples failed to spot the traitor among them; the only one
of them who knew who he was was Judas himself. That soft-spoken
companion with whom we walk so comfortably and in whose company we take
such delight may be an angel of Satan, whereas that rough, plain-spoken
man whom we shun may be God's very prophet sent to warn us against
danger and eternal loss.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/aw-tozer/distinguishing-between-jacob-and-esau/
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