DISCERNING FALSE TEACHERS IN THE CHURCH
- Kasule Jacob
- Jan 13, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 14, 2023
False teachers are individuals who claim to be
representatives of a particular religion or belief system, but who teach false or misleading doctrines. In this case, those who claims to be preachers and teachers of the Word of God but either contradicts, misinterprets, dishonors, or abuse the authority of God and His Word.
They may be motivated by a desire for power, money, or personal gain, rather than a genuine desire to share the truth. They are very dangerous in the church because they can lead people away from the true teachings of the faith, and may cause division and confusion within the community.
False teachers may also prey on vulnerable individuals, such as those who are new to the faith or those who are going through difficult times. It is important for individuals in the church to be discerning and to carefully evaluate the teachings of those who claim to be religious leaders, in order to avoid being misled by false teachers.
Christians can discern false teaching by evaluating it against the Bible, which is the ultimate authority and source of truth for Christians.
Specifically, believers should consider using the following to discern whether what they hear is truly God's Word or it's being used for effecting personal agendas:
Compare the teaching to Scripture: False teaching will often contradict or deviate from what is clearly taught in the Bible. It's either God's Word or not. God does not, has not, and will never contradict Himself.
Test the teacher's character: False teachers may have ulterior motives, such as personal gain, and may lack integrity. Often times self gratification is the goal and there is no remorse.
Evaluate the fruit: False teaching will not produce the same kind of spiritual growth and mature fruit as true teaching. This is because it lacks the real transforming power of the Holy Spirit. We cannot produce the things of God without the power of God.
Check with other Christians: Christians can and should seek counsel from other mature believers who have proven Christlike character in their own lives to help them discern whether a teaching is true or false.
Pray for discernment: Asking God for wisdom and discernment can help Christians understand the truth. Prayer should be an integral part of a believer's life.
Know the Scripture: It is equally vital for Christians to have a solid understanding of their faith, so that they can recognize when something is not in line with biblical teachings. This can be achieved through consistent Bible study, prayer, and participation in the community of faith.
Wherever you are, whether in a Church phew, listening to the teachings via the radio, watching it on TV or via the internet, or just reading the devotional scripts; make sure what you hear matches the Bible you hold in your hand. If it contradicts the Bible then it is false irrespective of who said it or how many people believe it.
Kasule Jacob
Founder and C. E. O.
Galactic Foundation Ministries
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