False Teachers

The Bible offers many warnings concerning the dangers of false teachers.They have always presented a problem for God’s people (2 Peter 2:1). They always will (1 Timothy 4:1-3). Jesus warned of them saying, “Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:15, 16). They are not hard to spot.

They are excellent communicators. “By their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting” (Romans 16:18). Not all good communicators are false teachers, but almost all false teachers are good communicators.

They are self-centered rather than Christ-centered. Faithful men of God do not preach themselves, but Christ (2 Corinthians 4:5). False teachers emphasize themselves! Theirs is the last word. They undermine the authority of Christ.

They appeal to men rather than to God. They offer what people want rather than what they need. They are men-pleasers rather than Godpleasers (Galatians 1:10).

They are often motivated by personal financial gain. Peter said of them, “In their greed they will exploit you with false words” (2 Peter 2:3). There is a lot of money to be made by unscrupulous preachers. And, it is those who can least afford it that are most often deceived.

They refuse to be open and honest in financial matters. Their books are closed to all but a privileged few. Real Christians will not only take pains “to do what is right” in the eyes of the Lord but also “in the eyes of men” (2 Corinthians 8:21). Faithful men of God have nothing to hide.

They will be noted for their inconsistent living. Like the Pharisees of the New Testament, “they do not practice what they preach” (Matthew 23:3 NIV). No one can faithfully proclaim the word of God who does not first make every effort to consistently live it.

Finally, they are often ignorant of God’s word. Like the Sadducees, they err, not knowing the scriptures (Matthew 22:29). Like those described by Paul, “They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently affirm” (1 Timothy 1:7). Not every false teacher perverts truth from impure motives. Some are simply ignorant of the Bible.

Why is this a matter of concern? Because only the truth can save (John 8:32). Like the Bereans, we must examine the Scriptures every day to see if what is said is true (Acts 17:11).