The Deceitful Heart
As we continued in our sermon series, “The Heart Matters,” Jamey Codding explored how we all have a tendency to hide—sometimes from others, sometimes from ourselves, and often from God. Like a game of hide and seek, we become experts at concealing the truth, not just with outright lies but with half-truths, omissions, and carefully constructed facades. This impulse to hide is as old as humanity itself, rooted in the very first deception in the Garden of Eden. When Adam and Eve believed the serpent’s lie found in Genesis 3:4-13—“You will not certainly die”—they not only disobeyed God but also introduced shame, blame, and hiding into the human story. Their first instinct after sinning was to cover themselves and hide, not just from each other but from God Himself.
Key Takeaways
– Deception Destroys Relationships
Deception is not just about telling lies; it’s about eroding the trust and intimacy that relationships are built on. When we hide, blame, or manipulate, we create distance between ourselves and others, often wounding those we love most. True restoration begins when we own our actions and choose honesty, even when it’s costly.
– Shame Drives Us Into Hiding
Shame convinces us that our failures define us, leading us to cover up and withdraw. Unlike guilt, which can prompt us to seek reconciliation, shame isolates us and distorts our identity. The more we hide, the more disconnected we become—not just from others, but from our true selves.
– God Invites Us Out of Hiding
God’s question, “Where are you?” is an invitation to step into the light, not a demand for explanation. He already knows our failures and our shame, yet He pursues us with compassion. Authentic relationship with God begins when we stop hiding and allow ourselves to be fully known and fully loved.
– Authenticity Begins with the Gospel
The gospel assures us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made, even in our brokenness. Jesus bore our shame and defeated the power of deception, making it possible for us to live honestly before God and others. As we confess and dismantle our masks, we discover the freedom and acceptance that only Christ can give.
– Even Small Lies Have Big Consequences
Little white lies may seem harmless, but they can create dark, destructive patterns in our hearts and relationships. Choosing truth, even in small things, is a spiritual discipline that shapes our character and deepens our intimacy with God and others.
Reflection Questions
- In Genesis 3, what was Adam and Eve’s first reaction after eating the fruit, and what did they do to try to deal with their new awareness?
- Jamey points out that Adam shifted blame to Eve (and even to God) instead of taking responsibility. What are the relational consequences of this kind of blame-shifting?
- Jamey said that authenticity is not about perfection but about honesty. How does the gospel make it possible for us to be honest about our brokenness?
- Shame often leads us to hide parts of ourselves from others, from God, and even from ourselves. Is there an area of your life where you feel tempted to hide or put on a mask? What would it look like to bring that into the light?
- God’s question, “Where are you?” is described as an invitation, not a demand. How do you sense God inviting you out of hiding right now? What would it take for you to respond honestly to Him?
- Jamey talked about how deception destroys trust and intimacy in relationships. Are there any relationships in your life that have been affected by deception or lack of authenticity? What steps could you take toward restoration?
- Psalm 139 says we are “fearfully and wonderfully made.” How does believing this truth help us step out of shame and into authenticity? Is there a specific truth from this passage you need to claim for yourself this week?
- Jamey encouraged us to confess the lies we’ve believed and the masks we’ve worn. What is one practical step you can take this week to live more authentically—with God, with others, or with yourself?
Watch the Message
Worship Songs from Nov 23
- “God Of Wonders”
- “I Am Your Beloved”
- “Come As You Are” (after the message)
- “Made For More” (after the message)
Listen to the songs we play on Sundays by clicking the image below to access our Spotify playlist!
