In today’s society, how important a part do you feel religion can play in people’s lives?
Edward F. Mrkvicka: Today more than ever religion is the barometer of the inner-value of a person’s life, whether from a secular or spiritual perspective, as without faith we are left to view the world as it is as opposed to living and performing works that can help make the world what it can and should be. On a more personal level, if we do not elevate ourselves to bow to a higher authority, we will, by nature, digress to our lower base instincts. This has been proven throughout history to the detriment of societies and, ultimately, the individual.

Do you think your book can appeal, help or entertain non religious readers?
Edward F. Mrkvicka: Everyone has a religion, even if that "religion" is atheism. And according to our beliefs, whatever they may be, we have a code by which we live, which brings us to the Word of God, the Bible. Whether you’re a Christian or not, there is not a better ethical standard to conduct one’s life than Scripture, and on that basis alone, Be Not Deceived is of spiritual and practical value to all.

What gave you the inspiration to write the book?
Edward F. Mrkvicka: I am a 64 year old life-long Bible student and lay minister who has come to understand that millions of people who see themselves as Christians have been deceived into believing a false gospel that states they can ignore the Word of God and still enter the Kingdom of heaven. And where does that false belief lead? "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 7:21) Be Not Deceived was written to ensure the reader understands the everlasting importance of their life choices.

Was the style of writing, a very straightforward and easy to understand approach, a conscious choice?
Edward F. Mrkvicka: Absolutely, as God’s message of salvation was biblically written to be understood; i.e., the Bible makes clear throughout that God does not hide from His children, and in that vein, His teachings are extraordinarily clear. "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:" (Matthew 7:7). To that end, my writing is conversational in tone and thought. It not only is my nature, it had to be to achieve the goal of helping others see God’s amazing truth about salvation.

What messages and themes do you hope readers will take away with them from the book?
Edward F. Mrkvicka: There are many messages in Be Not Deceived, but none more important than this simple truth - you and you alone will determine where you spend eternity. And while salvation is an unmerited gift, it comes with instructions in response to the sacrifice of our Savior. Equally important is coming to understand that God doesn’t just want to hear that we love Him, He wants to see our lives (our works) reflect the love we profess. "What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works?" (James 2:14)

How crucial are the biblical passages you have incorporated into the book?
Edward F. Mrkvicka: They are the foundation of the book’s theme, as no one, including myself, should presumptuously interpret God’s Word, as it is what it is. "If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life," (Revelation 22:18-19) Consequently, I make no points without biblical underpinning, as all true Christian writing must be solely based on Scripture and understood contextually, which is what Be Not Deceived does.