Stay on Guard

In their greed they will exploit you with false words.

2 Peter 2:3

It’s painful to watch brothers and sisters in Christ submit to the manipulation of false teachers. Their empty promises and deceitful words entrap believers into living more for the earthly treasures of wealth, social acceptance, and comfortable lives. Paul warned, “I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them.” (Acts 20:29-31)

What was true for the early church is still today: we must stand guard against false teachers and their teachings. False teaching isn’t always easily discernable by nature. Many false teachers know enough of God’s word to mix a little false with the truth. If we aren’t careful, we can find ourselves aligning with teachings that will ultimately draw us further from God. How do we stay on G-U-A-R-D against false teachings?

G – Gain a greater understanding with prayer and Biblical resources. (Psalm 25:5)
Taking the time to pray and follow up on a teaching only helps us become more wise and discerning on Biblical truths.

U – Understand that all Bible teaching needs thorough scrutiny. (Acts 17:11)
Due diligence is essential in these last days where Satan will do everything he can to mix truths with lies.

A – Ask questions about scriptural use, definition, and application. (1 Peter 1:10)
Be respectful, but fearless, when dealing with questionable teachings and practices.

R – Request the Holy Spirit to lead us into all truth. (John 16:13)
The Lord sent us the Holy Spirit so that we can have direction on what to believe and what to not believe.

D – Discern truth from a lie by reading the Bible every day. (Psalm 119:15)
Exposing ourselves to daily scripture reading helps us remain acquainted with truth so we will recognize a lie.