Be Not Deceived

Edward F. Mrkvicka, Jr, Kelly Helen Mrkvicka
Trafford Publishing (2007)
ISBN 9781412090032
Reviewed by Debra Gaynor for Reader Views (7/07)


“Be Not Deceived,” by Edward F. Mrkvicka, Jr., warns Christians of errors in their beliefs.  While salvation is a gift freely given and one that cannot be snatched away, free will plays a large part.  While no one can take away our salvation, we can turn our backs on God through willing disobedience and refuse our salvation.  Many denominations have a doctrine of once saved, always saved.  This doctrine leaves out obedience.  “Did Jesus die on a cross so that we can be forgiven or so that we could sin?”  Scripture tells us that Christ hated two things:  Nicolatians and the deeds of those who practice it. Revelation 2:15 “So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitians, which thing I hate.”  (Revelation 2:15)  “However, this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitians, which thing I also hate.”  “The Nicolaitan Doctrine believes that the world and the Kingdom could exist together.”

To have an intimate relationship with God you must personally know him.  There are so many aspects of God’s personality that we often overlook.  We concentrate on God is love and leave out the God is powerful.  We try to walk with him as equals and that is not possible.  “With men this is impossible” but with God all things are possible. (Matthew 19:26).  God is also jealous; he will not share you with another.  Whatever you have placed before God is your idol.  God is righteous and holy.  God is our provider, omnipresent, vengeful, our peace, our judge, our comforter, our shepherd and the ONE who sanctifies us.  We refuse to recognize the intricacy of God. 

“Be Not Deceived,” by Edward F. Mrkvicka, is simply written and easy to understand definition of the gift of salvation.  The book is divided into six chapters and has a separate conclusion that draws it all together.  Mrkvicka aptly explains how faith and works go “hand and hand.”  “There can be no faith without works.”  Too many have forgotten or overlooked this part of scripture, “If you love me keep my commandments.”  (John 14:15)  I enjoyed Edward F. Mrkvicka’s “Be Not Deceived,” and highly recommend it to all Christians.

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