[Greek] ἀπάτη (apatē), [Latin] fallacia, [Latin] deceptio, [Latin] erroris: delusion, deceit, deception; Mt.13:22, Mk.4:19, Eph.4:22, Col.2:8, 2Thess.2:10, Heb.3:13, 2Pet.2:13
The Parable of the Sower: painting by Peter Bruegel the Elder (1557). The seed sown among thorns is the one hears the Word but worldy anxiety and the lure of riches choke the Word and bears no fruit.
Background information:
Greek Hellenism: This term means deception, deceit, illusion, fraud, guile, and treachery. Sophocles’ Antigone 617 states “Deceit comes to one who is wholly unaware until he burns his foot on a hot fire.” Sophocles’ Oedipus at Colonus 230 states “Deceit, on the one part, matches deceit on the other, and gives pain instead of pleasure for reward.” Homer’s Iliad 4.168 states “Zeus, son of Cronos, that dwelleth in the heaven, shall himself shake over them all his dark aegis in wrath for this deception.”
Greek mythology: Apate is the Greek goddess of deceit. Fraus is the corresponding Roman goddess of deceit.
New Testament: This term means deception (lure), deceitful actions, deceit of sin, and seductive philosophies. Paul illustrates how the new life in Christ contrasts with the Gentiles’ deceitful desires. Paul points out the empty and seductive pagan philosophies according to human traditions. Those who are perishing perform wicked deeds. One is cautioned against being hardened by the deceit of sin. False teachers are known for the wicked deeds.
Scripture:
“The seed sown among thorns is the one who hears the word, but then worldly anxiety and lure of riches choke the word and it bears no fruit.” Mt.13:22
In the parable of the seeds, the seed faced with thorns is like one who eventually is separated (choked off) from the word.
“That you should put away the old self of your former way of life, corrupted through deceitful desires.” Eph. 4:22
Paul illustrates the new life in Christ is contrasted with the sinful Gentile ways.
“See to it that no one captivate you with an empty seductive philosophy according to human tradition, according tot he elemental powers of the world and not according to Christ.” Col.2:8
Worldly philosophies and human traditions may often seduce one way from Christ.
Conclusion:
Fallacy, deception, error
Deception and deceipt can be applicable in any time period. Even a goddess was created for such a concept.
In the parable of the seeds, riches may provide a lure (deception) when it comes to following Jesus. The seed among thorns is the person who may be choked out from following Christ. It is interesting to note that this concept correlates with the notion that the rich getting into heaven is like a camel going through a needle. Riches in themselves are not bad or evil. Jesus states one can be possessed (controlled) by riches. Instead, on should share one’s riches to help the poor and needy.
In our current materialistic and consumer culture, many of us are drawn to (possessed) by our technological gadgets (smartphones). We must have the latest and greatest version. In a sense, many of us have become like little pagans bowing down to our gadgets. In fact, many have experienced “tech neck” (neck and muscle strain—this is a real thing!) from constantly looking down at our smartphones.
So keep away from these thorns (riches and technology) and keep your eyes on Jesus.