In our journey of faith, (Christ and Him Crucified) one of the most vital aspects is discernment is being able to distinguish between genuine teachings rooted in God's Word and deceptive doctrines propagated by false teachers.
The Scriptures repeatedly warn us about the presence of such individuals who distort and misrepresent the truth.
2 Peter 2:1 (KJV) But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.
Let’s delve into the importance of recognizing and avoiding false teachers who deviate from the genuine teachings of the Bible.
Identifying False Teachers
False teachers often appear sincere and may even use biblical language. However, their teachings ultimately deviate from the core truths of the Gospel which is The Cross.
The Apostle Paul gives warning in Galatians 1:6-9 about those who preach a distorted Gospel, stating that even if "But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed"(vs 8).
Characteristics of False Teachers
1. Distorting Scripture: False teachers may selectively use Scripture to suit their agenda, taking verses out of context or ignoring passages that contradict their teachings.
2. Self-Interest: They often promote teachings that cater to personal gain, whether financial, political, or social, rather than the glory of God and the edification of believers.
3. Lack of Fruits: Jesus warned us to be discerning about false prophets by their fruits (Matthew 7:15-20). A life devoid of the Fruits of The Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—can be a sign of a false teacher.
For example:
The phrase "Fruits of The Spirit" refers to qualities or characteristics that are produced in the lives of believers who are filled with the Holy Spirit and walking in accordance with God's will, "The Cross".
These Fruits (The Fruits of The Spirit) are described in Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."
Let's break down each of these Fruits:
Love: This is selfless, sacrificial affection and care for others, rooted in God's unconditional love.
Joy: A deep-seated delight and gladness that comes from knowing and trusting in God regardless of circumstances.
Peace: Inner tranquility and harmony that results from relying on God's sovereignty and trusting in His promises.
Patience: Endurance and forbearance in difficult situations, characterized by a calm and gentle attitude toward others.
Kindness: Showing compassion, generosity, and goodwill toward others, reflecting the kindness of God.
Goodness: Moral excellence and uprightness, exemplifying integrity and righteousness in behavior.
Faithfulness: Dependability, loyalty, and trustworthiness in keeping commitments and honoring relationships.
Gentleness: Humility, meekness, and considerate behavior toward others, even in positions of strength or authority.
Self-Control: Mastery over one's desires, impulses, and actions, allowing a person to live in moderation and discipline.
When I mentioned "a life devoid of The Fruits of The Spirit," I was referring to a lifestyle that lacks these evident characteristics.
In contrast, a person filled with the Holy Spirit will naturally exhibit these Fruits, showing evidence of a deepening relationship with God and conformity to His will that came through The Finished Work of The Cross.
Recognizing these Fruits in oneself and others can be helpful in discerning whether teachings, prophecies, or ministries are aligned with God's Word and Truth that is only found in Jesus and Him Crucified.
False prophets or teachers exhibit a lack of these fruits or showing none at all, instead showing signs of selfish ambition, deceit, or moral compromise, which can be indicators of their true nature aka "flesh".
The Dangers of False Teachings
The consequences of embracing false teachings are very severe. They can lead believers astray, fostering confusion, doubt, and spiritual shipwreck (1 Timothy 1:19).
False teachings can also distort a persons understanding of God's character and His plan of redemption, jeopardizing our Salvation if anyone follows them.
Guarding Against False Teachings
1. Study God's Word: Commit to studying Scripture daily to develop a solid foundation in the truth (2 Timothy 2:15).
2. Test Everything: Evaluate teachings against the entirety of Scripture (Acts 17:11) and seek guidance from mature, grounded believers.
3. Prayer and Discernment: Ask the Holy Spirit for discernment to recognize and reject falsehoods (1 John 4:1).
4. Take up our Cross daily: Jesus should be the only focus in a persons life and no man should be above Him. (Luke 9:23 (KJV) And he said to [them] all, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me).
Conclusion
As believers are committed to upholding The Truth of God's Word (Jesus and Him Crucified), we must remain vigilant against false teachings. Let us remember to heed the warnings of Scripture and actively pursue a deeper understanding of God's Word in The Truth that came through The Cross.
By doing so, we can be an example of our faith in Christ Jesus, stand firm in the Gospel, and warn others from being led astray by those who peddle deception.
In the words of Jude 1:3, let us "contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints."
We must be equipped with "The Word of God" to recognize and refute false teachings, ensuring that our lives and ministries align with the purity and integrity of The Truth of God's Word.
Colossians 2:6-7 (KJV) As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, [so] walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.
Preach The Cross!
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