BEWARE OF FALSE TEACHERS

T.K. Shee

We read very often in the Bible about the people of God being misled by the deceitful teachings of false prophets and false teachers. Christ Himself also warned against false prophets who will arise, coming as wolves in sheep’s clothing (Mt 7:15). Peter further warned that there will be false teachers amongst us (2 Peter 2:1 -3). Their false teachings will deceive and lead people away from the teachings of God and the Bible mentions that some will depart from the faith in latter days. (I Tim 4:1)

In order to he on guard against these false teachers, we must first he aware of the methods they employ. In his epistle to the Colossians, Paul warned them nor to be deceived by persuasive words (Col 2:4). He further cautioned them against philosophies, empty deceits, traditions of men and principles of the world (Cot 2:8): There were those who arose to pervert the gospel of Christ (Gal 1:6-9). Some troubled the believers with the traditions of men (Acts 15:24-29), and stumbling their faith (2 Tim 2:17,18). Similarly, some today challenge the existence of God and the Christian faith with their own philosophies. There are also many who claim to he Christians hut follow and teach many doctrines and practices which are not in accordance with the Bible. They keep Sunday instead of the Sabbath and celebrate Christmas. They say, “Surely God will not mind whether we are baptised or not, or how we are baptised?” They say some teachings in the Bible are unclear and hence their views are acceptable. They say that the Bible does not clearly teach Christians to marry in the Lord and hence they advocate that Christians can marry unbelievers. Let us not fall for this! The teachings in the Bible are actually very clear. Confusions arise because these people either do not understand the Bible or choose not to submit to the teachings of the Bible.

Second, we must he rooted in the truth. After Paul had warned Timothy against the false teachers, he reminded Timothy to “take heed to the doctrine and continue in them” (1 Tim 4:16). But how can we take heed if we do not know the doctrines in the first place? Hence, we must learn the doctrines. As we learn and desire the Word of God, we grow (1 Pet 2:2) and as we grow, unlike children, we will not he easily deceived by the trickery of men (Eph 4:14).

Third, we must recognise who speaks for God. One who speaks for God must “speak as the oracles of God” and also glorify God (1 Pet 4:11) and not speak his own words to glorify himself.

One who speaks for God speaks as the apostles spoke (1 Jn 4: 5,6). One who is speaking for God will preach that baptism is for the forgiveness of sins, because that was what Peter preached (Acts 2:38).

Fourth, we must reject false teachers.

The Bible teaches us not to receive them. Paul said that false teachers would he accursed (Gal 1: 6-9).