Session 6: How To Deceive The World
A downloadable outline is available here: https://humble-sidecar-837.notion.site/Session-6-How-To-Deceive-The-World-290a5378439c4985b86b723818c8b762?pvs=4
In this session, we will delve into the intriguing topic of deception. By closely examining its various tactics, unraveling the profound consequences it can have, and drawing insightful lessons from the story of Joshua 9, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of this complex phenomenon.
Setting the Scene (Joshua 9:1-3)
In this crucial opening section of our exploration of deception, we find ourselves amidst a gathering of kings from various regions who have banded together in a formidable coalition. The alliances forged among these monarchs are a testament to the fear and uncertainty that had gripped the inhabitants of the Promised Land. These leaders, recognizing the strength of the Israelite forces and the miraculous victories at Jericho and Ai, joined forces in a desperate attempt to thwart the advance of the Israelites. Amidst this backdrop of unease and strategic collaboration, we encounter the Gibeonite deception. The Gibeonites, inhabiting one of the nearby cities, understood the impending threat of the Israelite conquest and resorted to a cunning ruse. They artfully disguised themselves as distant travelers, weaving a web of deceit that would lead them into a covenant with the Israelites. This chapter's opening verses set the stage for a narrative that unveils the depths of human deception and the unforeseen consequences it can bear, inviting us to reflect upon the timeless lessons it holds for us today.
Deceptive Tactics (Joshua 9:4-13)
As we venture into the heart of this intriguing narrative in Joshua 9, we encounter the subtle and calculated tactics employed by the Gibeonites to deceive the Israelites. First, the representatives appeared worn and weary, their clothing tattered, their provisions seemingly meager and aged. Their very appearance evoked empathy and compassion, triggering a response that was rooted in the Israelites' hospitality and humanitarianism. It's here that the lesson begins to unfold, reminding us of the human inclination to judge based on outward appearances and initial impressions, often overlooking the need for discernment.
The Gibeonite plan was not merely a matter of disguising their physical appearance; it was a carefully orchestrated scheme. Craftily, they claimed to hail from a faraway land, fostering the belief that they had journeyed from a distant realm. Their bread was dry and moldy, their wine bottles old and torn, all part of a grand performance. These specific details were woven into a narrative designed to convince the Israelites of their authenticity, obscuring their true identity and intent. In this segment, we are reminded of the power of deception to be not only convincing but also elaborate, prompting us to reflect on our own susceptibility to well-crafted deceit and the necessity of seeking truth beyond surface appearances.
The Covenant (Joshua 9:14-18)
Joshua and the leaders of Israel, enticed by the alluring and irresistible offer presented before them, were thoroughly convinced to enter into a state of peaceful coexistence with the strangers. Not only did they establish peace, but they also took it a step further by forging a formal alliance, solidifying their mutual commitment. Astonishingly, this entire course of action was undertaken without seeking any divine guidance from the Lord, despite having the means to do so through the urim and thumin, which could have provided them with invaluable insight and guidance in their decision-making process.
However, it didn't take long for them to realize their grave mistake. Just three days later, the true identity of these strangers was revealed, which came as a shocking revelation to Israel. It was a moment of immense realization, and they were left with no other choice but to honor the covenant they had willingly entered into.
The Consequences (Joshua 9:19-27)
The people were greatly dissatisfied and discontented with the leadership (v. 18). Their frustration and disappointment grew as they realized that they were trapped and unable to withdraw from their current predicament. It was in this critical moment of revelation that the leadership of Israel finally confronted the truth that had eluded them for so long. The consequences and implications of their covenant with the Gibeonites became painfully clear. The Israelites were now faced with the daunting task of rectifying a difficult and unfavorable situation, but unfortunately, they did not have the power to simply make it disappear.
Steps To Deceit
There are several straightforward steps involved in the process of deception. Firstly, it is crucial to establish a persuasive motive. You deceive someone with the intention of achieving a particular outcome. Secondly, the act of lying itself is pivotal. It is a straightforward and direct approach - to deceive, one must simply tell a falsehood. When attempting to deceive someone, it is essential to identify a problem or challenge that needs to be overcome, and then proceed to fabricate a falsehood. The effectiveness of deception is often determined by the quality of the lie itself. The more skillfully and convincingly one can lie, the greater the likelihood of successfully deceiving others. Additionally, the strength and validity of the underlying motive play a significant role in the art of deception. The more compelling and solid the reason behind the deception, the more effective one's ability to fabricate a convincing lie becomes.
This two-step plan has repeatedly demonstrated its effectiveness throughout history. Notable examples include the Trojan Horse, a cunning military tactic employed by the Greeks during the Trojan War, and Operation Fortitude, a strategic deception operation carried out by the Allies during World War II. Additionally, it is important to acknowledge the tragic and horrifying events of the Holocaust, where Adolf Hitler and his regime systematically persecuted and murdered approximately 6 million Jews. This despicable act was facilitated through the use of deception and manipulation, as the Jews were deceived and lied to by the Nazi regime.
What lesson can we learn? Be careful, people with an agenda will lie to you.
The German Rationalists had an agenda: to undermine our confidence in revelation. To fulfill this goal, they resorted to deception. This deception was discovered by an ambitious young professor, a talented calligrapher, and a PR campaign that minimized accusations and emphasized the repetition of talking points.
