How is sin deceitful?
1. It deceives us as to what is sinful, as in the case of Adam. So also in the case of thousands. 2. It deceives us as to its demands. It promises to be satisfied with a limited indulgence. So the slothful, the negligent, the sensual, the avaricious. It is the first step that costs. 3. It deceives as to the pleasure it promises. Adam expected to be like God. 4. It deceives us as to the true motives which determine our conduct. Ministers, missionaries, as well as others are thus deceived. 5. It deceives us as to its effects and to the degree of impunity with which it can be indulged. III. The effects of sin as thus deceitful. 1. It hardens. That is, a. as to the will it renders it stiff and fixed. It becomes settled in evil. b. As to the feelings it renders them obdurate. Motives cease to affect, the conscience to warn or reprove, and the result is a reprobate mind. 2. It slays or destroys the soul. a. In destroying its sensibility. b. In destroying desire and hope of amendment. c. In b
