In Ezra, chapter four, verse two, the enemies of God, as in the example with the Samaritans in Second Kings, verses twenty-four through thirty-four, attempt to infiltrate the chosen people of God and disrupt the building of the temple by a pretense of unity and by an offer to join together to advance God’s work. The enemies of Judah claimed to worship and sacrifice to the Lord God, as did the children of Israel. However, they retained their gods and did not accept the written Word of God as the fundamental authority for His people. This deceptive offer of help was a sinister plot to undermine the faith and commitment of the restored remnant.
Scripture warns that Satan will seek to distort God’s message and bring spiritual ruin to God’s holy remnant through offers of cooperation from false believers who are not loyal to the inspired revelation of God’s Word, as in Matthew twenty-four, verse twenty-four, Acts twenty, verses twenty-seven to thirty-one, Second Corinthians eleven, verses thirteen to fifteen, and Revelation chapters two through three, respectively. Unity among those who worship the Lord is a significant Biblical teaching. However, such unity must be on sincere faith, obedient righteousness, and loyalty to God’s revealed truth, as in Ephesians four, verses three through thirteen.
Today, believers, who are the children of God, have to be very careful with the unbelievers, who are not. Family members, co-workers, neighbors, and even strangers will come to offer to help with whatever we are doing for God, go to a church, or be your friend. The offer is a nice gesture where believers show hospitality to those around us to encourage and win souls for Christ by our living example.
Still, saints of God should watch and pray and ask God sincerely, “Should I receive this offer? Or not. Not sure at that moment? Let them know you will get back to them soon. However, if they behave negatively, then there is your answer. Sincere help from others would not be ungodly but godly. Their response would be in an understanding manner. Not rash or aggressive. God is gentle and kind and does not force. On the other hand, the enemy is the opposite.