People with an Agenda and How to Spot Them

If you are a follower of Christ, you’ll come across all kinds of people. Some will genuinely encourage you in your faith, but others may have their own agenda. Spotting someone with an agenda is an important skill to develop as you manage your relationships, whether in church, school, or your community.

One of the first signs to watch for is when someone’s actions don’t match their words. Jesus said, "You will know them by their fruits" (Matthew 7:16). If a person is constantly talking about doing good or loving others, but you notice they’re quick to gossip, criticize, or take advantage of others, that’s a big red flag. Their agenda might be more about building themselves up than building up others in Christ.

Another thing to be mindful of is how they dominate conversations. People with an agenda often want to control the narrative, and you’ll notice they keep bringing up the same topic over and over. They can be manipulative, steering the discussion to suit their own interests, and if you try to confront them or question their motives, they may become indignant or defensive. This reaction can be a clear indicator that their intentions aren’t pure.

Flattery is another tool they often use. If someone is always telling you what you want to hear or being overly complimentary, it might be because they’re trying to win your trust for their own purposes. The Bible warns us in Romans 16:18, 'For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting.' A genuine friend or mentor will tell you the truth, even when it’s hard to hear, because they care about your growth in Christ, not just your approval.

Also, consider their focus—are they more interested in helping you grow closer to God, or are they constantly steering conversations and activities toward their own interests or goals? If you find that someone is often talking about themselves, their achievements, or their opinions, and they’re not really listening to you or considering what’s best for you, that could indicate they have an agenda.

Finally, trust the Holy Spirit within you. When something feels off, take a moment to pray and ask God for wisdom. The Bible says in James 1:5, 'But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.' Sometimes the Holy Spirit will give you a sense of unease about a person or situation—that’s a signal to proceed with caution.

So, if you ever feel like someone is trying to lead you in a direction that doesn’t feel right or that doesn’t align with what you know of God’s Word, don’t be afraid to take a step back. It’s okay to ask questions, seek advice from trusted mentors, and most importantly, seek God’s guidance.

Remember, Jesus said in John 10:27, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." As you grow in your faith, you’ll become better at recognizing His voice and distinguishing it from those who may have their own agenda. Stay close to Him, and He’ll guide you every step of the way.

I am a dedicated Bible teacher and evangelist, committed to understanding the Bible deeply and conveying its message in a simple, relatable manner. My primary aim is to lead others to Christ, help them grow in their faith, and teach the true Word of God. I focus on making biblical principles accessible to everyone, using straightforward language and practical applications. Email: hopeinchrist2024@yahoo.com