Self-delusion, in a biblical context, refers to the state of being deceived about one's own spiritual condition, often as a result of persistent sin and rebellion against God. This condition is frequently addressed in Scripture, where it is depicted as a consequence of hardening one's heart against divine truth and guidance.

The Bible warns of the dangers of self-delusion, particularly for those who are obstinate in their sin. In Romans 1:28, the Apostle Paul writes, "And just as they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done." This passage highlights the grave reality that persistent rejection of God can lead to a state where individuals are abandoned to their own corrupt desires and false beliefs.

The Old Testament also provides examples of self-delusion among obstinate sinners. In Jeremiah 17:9, the prophet declares, "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" This verse underscores the inherent deceitfulness of the human heart, which can lead individuals to justify their sinful actions and remain blind to their need for repentance.

Proverbs 14:12 further illustrates this concept: "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." Here, the wisdom literature of the Bible warns that self-delusion can lead individuals to pursue paths that appear correct in their own eyes but ultimately result in spiritual destruction.

The New Testament continues this theme, with James 1:22 cautioning believers, "Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." This exhortation emphasizes the importance of aligning one's actions with God's Word to avoid the trap of self-deception.

The Pharisees, as depicted in the Gospels, serve as a poignant example of religious self-delusion. Despite their outward displays of piety, Jesus rebukes them for their hypocrisy and spiritual blindness. In Matthew 23:27-28, He states, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of impurity. In the same way, on the outside you appear to be righteous, but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness."

The Bible also offers hope for those ensnared by self-delusion. In 2 Timothy 2:25-26, Paul advises Timothy to gently instruct those who oppose the truth, "in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will."

Ultimately, the Scriptures call for humility and a willingness to submit to God's truth as the antidote to self-delusion. In John 8:31-32, Jesus promises, "If you continue in My word, you are truly My disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." This freedom from self-deception is available to all who earnestly seek God and His righteousness.Psalm 81:11,12
But my people would not listen to my voice; and Israel would none of me.
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Hosea 4:17
Ephraim is joined to idols: let him alone.
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2 Thessalonians 2:10,11
And with all delusion of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
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