Don't Get Tricked
Posted 5/4/2002 6:00:09 PM
Don't believe everything you hear.
Throughout our lifetimes we listen to hundreds of speakers and teachers who are trying to convince us of something. Whatever the agenda, however truthful (or not), or whatever the motive, a good speaker tries to convince you that his point is right.
It isn't any different with Bible teachers. The Bible is God's book, and when combined with the leading and teaching of the Holy Spirit provides an inexhaustible wealth of material for teaching, preaching, and discipling.
The problem is that, for many different reasons, there are many people interesting in promoting ideas that are not biblical. But often it is hard to tell. John addresses this in 1Jo 4:1-6, giving guidelines for Christians to use in discerning truth from lies.
- There are many false prophets (v. 1). These people are not uncommon, so don't be surprise when you encounter them.
- Confess that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh (v. 2-3). Somebody who doesn't believe that Jesus is God and man is not from God, and can't be relied upon. Be careful; smooth talkers and good-sounding statements can make some sound like they're legitimate, yet are not.
- The world hears them (v 5). The world's wisdom sounds good to most people, and they'll listen. Huge popularity is a warning flag.
- They don't listen to God's people (v 6). A false teacher doesn't understand the Bible.
That's what John says; what else does the Bible give us for help?
- They secretly bring heresies, denying even God's redeeming power 2Pe 2:1.
- They say they're Christ, don't believe it Mt 24:23.
- They're interesting in taking advantage of Christians Act 20:29.
The Holy Spirit is our best help through all this
- He testifies of Christ Jn 15:26
- He is greater than the devil, because His is God (v 4).
Home