A Few Thoughts About Teachers to Avoid

 

2 Corinthians 11:4 WEL For if someone comes preaching another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if you receive a different spirit which you have not received, or a different gospel which you have not accepted, you might well enough put up with him.

 

Paul is writing to the Corinthian church. They had many issues stemming from false teachers, devotions to various leaders, confusion from society, sin, and morality issues, etc.

 

Paul is writing again to them concerning various false teachers. He gives them a standard to judge teachers by.

B1 Who is Jesus?

B2 What about spirits?

B3 What is the Gospel?

 

We must know these, too, especially considering today’s culture and corruption in the churches. This corruption is because church leaders have not followed the above standard.

 

Who is Jesus?

B1 For if someone comes preaching another Jesus, whom we have not preached

B2 This is Christology

B3 Jesus is God the Son.

C1 The Trinity (Godhead) consists of 3 persons of one essence. Essence is the stuff that God is. Only God has it. I am the stuff, material, substance of human. Angels of spirit. God is a spirit but God spirit. Only God has the essence of a god. There are no other gods. In the god-classification of beings, there is only one God, that is, Yahweh.

C2 See the Athanasian Creed, which explains it best. I agree with the Athanasian Creed 100% wholeheartedly.

B4 Jesus is 100% God and 100% human.

B5 He is one person.

B6 He is the creator.

B7 He is the Messiah. He has always been Messiah, is, and always will be Messiah. He is the only Messiah.

B8 He is born of the virgin. He father is God. The pregnancy was by the power of the Holy Spirit.

B9 He was a baby, a boy, a young man, and made his living as a carpenter.

B10 He ministered for 3+ years.

B11 He was arrested, tired 6 times (3 times in the Jewish court and 3 times in a Roman court), was condemned, was fastened to a cross, suffered, truly died, was buried in a rich man’s tomb, went to Paradise (the compartment of Hades for the righteous dead as Noah, David, the prophets, etc.) for 3 days and nights, bodily arose from the dead, appeared to over 500 brothers and sisters, ascended into heaven (the first heaven is the atmosphere of the earth, the second is the universe, and the third is outside the universe and is where God lives), sits at the right hand of God the Father, intercedes for believers, is lord of the church (believers), and will return again (His next return is the Rapture which happens before the 7 year Tribulation, after the Tribulation, He will return to the Mt of Olives, which splits in 2 halves, judges those still living at the end of the Tribulation, sets up His throne in Jerusalem and reigns for 1,000 years at the end of which He judges the evil dead at the Great White Throne judgment), and judges and destroys this present universe to create a New Heaven and New Earth.

B12 Some articles

C1 Dr. Gary Habermas has several free books and articles on Christology.

C2 Christology: Jesus Christ from Bible.org

C3 David Hocking Media - Christology from Blue Letter Bible (Here is the pdf file that I believe is the same material).

 

What about spirits?

B1 ...or if you receive a different spirit which you have not received...

B2 The Spirit that they received is God the Holy Spirit

C1 The Holy Spirit is God. The Trinity, as above, is 3 persons of one essence. See the Athanasian Creed again, for what I and most Christians believe.

C2 The Holy Spirit is a person. He is not a force, power, idea, empowerment, etc. As a person, He has all the attributes of God and traits of a person as intellect, emotions, and will.

C3 He was present in the Old Testament. He was present and active in creation, giving wisdom, and guidance, etc.

C4 He initiates salvation. If God the Holy Spirit did not initiate salvation, no one could be saved from God’s wrath, forgiven, and regenerated.

C5 He regenerates. This especially refers to the new birth.

C6 He convicts of sin and rebellion. He opens the mind and heart to the truth of our sinful condition, guilt, and punishment.

C7 He baptizes all New Testament believers, giving them God’s presence in the newly created (regenerated) heart, and empowers them for service.

C8 He seals all New Testament believers identifying them as belonging to God.

C9 He guides us into truth.

C10 He gives gifts to all New Testament believers to serve fellow Christians and to glorify God.

C11 He plants, prunes, gives growth for believers to produce fruit.

B3 False spirits

C1 False presentation of themselves, for example, satan comes as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14) and so do his agents whether false teachers, false prophets, false leaders, abusers, etc. They look and sound correct, but they slowly and stealthily bring in false doctrine (Matthew 7:15, 2 Peter 2:1-3).

C2 Encourage evil desires of any type. They do this subtilty (2 Corinthians 11:3). They change definitions. They explain away the plain, normal sense of the Scriptures (2 Peter 3:16). They make great promises. They pretend to live a godly life. They are full of charisma and are tremulously gifted speakers. Let us beware. We must study the Scriptures. It is not enough that someone can speak so convincingly. Despite appearances, they practice sin: 1 John 3:8-10 (practices sin is not referring to a one-time sin).

C3 Use fallen Christians to oppose God (Acts 5:1-9).

C4 Can cause incidents that appear to be miracles (Matthew 24:24)

C5 Often have character traits as secretly bringing in heresies (Galatians 2:4), denying Jesus (2 Peter 2:1 and 1 John 2:22), debaucheries (see here), all with the goal that the way of truth (Biblical Christianity is hated, Jesus is hated, and the Gospel is hated. They are satan’s agents (Compare John 8:44, Acts 13:10, 1 John 3:8-10, John 6:70)).

C6 Lead people from peace and safety to insecurity and unrest (Jeremiah 50:6)

C7 Promise freedom but leads them into addiction to sin (2 Peter 2:18-19)

C8 Inspire false teachers and prophets to have a wrong doctrine about Jesus. 2 John 1:7 EMTV Because many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is a deceiver and the antichrist. See also 1 John 2:22.

C9 Deceive people to follow mystical practices instead of being alert, thinking, and continuing steadfast and faithful to the Scriptures. We know the Scriptures, so who are these guides, jesus (my spelling of false Jesus’s), dreams, visions, prophecies, etc.?

C10 In general, they lead away from truth into error concerning theology, Christology, heaven, hell, etc. They work to get people to trust anything other than Scriptures. Most of these hold to the idea that these visions have not been corrupted by people in translation. They misquote and misinterpret “...the letter kills, but the spirit gives life (2 Corinthians 3:6).” They believe that Scriptures are corrupted because people have translated wrongly for years. The methods of corruption.

C11 See 1 John 4:1-6, Matthew 7:15, 2 Peter 2:1, Matthew 7:21, etc.

C12 Let us avoid being this type of “Christian.”2 Timothy 4:3-5 NLT For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will reject the truth and chase after myths. 5 But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don't be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.

B4 Articles

C1 Holy Spirit Series FAQ by Don Stewart

C2 Dictionary of Bible Themes – 3000 Holy Spirit (This is a topical list of many facets of the Doctrine of the Holy Spirit).

 

What is the Gospel?

B1 ...a different gospel which you have not accepted...

B2 The basics of the Gospel are found in 1 Corinthians 15:1-8.

C1 Gospel preached

C2 Gospel received/accepted

C3 Belief

C4 Christ died. Jesus of Nazareth was the one nailed to the Roman cross. He truly died, dead.

C5 He was buried. He was buried in a rich man’s tomb that had never been used. His body did not corrupt (rot).

C6 He was raised the third day (Sunday). He was bodily raised. He had the glorified body, but it was his body. He was not resuscitated but resurrected.

C7 He walked and lived for 40 days on earth. He was personally seen by over 500 brothers and sisters.

B3 Definitions:

C1 Saved is not having to face God’s wrath (Luke 3:7 and 1 Thessalonians 1:10). The final wrath of God is conscious, never ending torment in the Lake of Fire (Revelation 20:11-15).

C2 Born again/born from above (John chapter 3), regeneration (Titus 3:5), rebirth (Titus 3:5), etc. has the idea of a spiritual birth that is brought about by God (John 3:6).

C3 Justification is the decision by the Lawgiver and Judge that declares a person to not be a sinner (Romans 5:1-10). The believer is considered righteous (2 Corinthians 5:21). The penalty has been paid in full by Jesus Christ (1 Peter 2:24). We are now freed from sin and free to live by God’s grace as a servant of righteousness (Romans 6:18). God’s law was not set aside or merely ignored. The penalty was fully completed. Jesus completely fulfilled God’s laws in thoughts, desires, words, and deeds (Romans 10:3-9).

C4 Sanctification is the separation of the sinful nature to the righteous nature of God. God works and gives the grace, but we must continue to believe and live it (2 Timothy 2:21, 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 2 Thessalonians 2:13). Sanctification is the work and teaching of the Holy Spirit in our lives. It is both instant (justification), life long, and complete in the future (glorification).

C5 Glorification is when the person who has believed God and trusted in Jesus Christ alone dies, is received into heaven, and to never sin, hurt, or suffer the curse from sin (1 John 3:2, Philippians 3:20-21, John 17:17). Truth is of utmost importance for us to do in our thoughts, desires, words, and deeds.

C6 Reconciliation is when an enemy and another are no longer enemies. Humans are enemies of God because we are not loyal to the King of all kings. We are rebels doing our own thing in life (Ephesians 2:1-3). Because of the work of Jesus Christ and our meeting God’s conditions (believe/faith) (2 Corinthians 5:18-19). We are reconciled to God (Romans 5:10).

C7 Atonement is a sacrifice is made atoning for sin. It is related to expiation and propitiation. All these words mean that a pleasing sacrifice is offered. Either we are punished or a substitute. Atonement is when the substitute is punished. See 1 Peter 2:24, 1 John 2:2, Hebrews 9:12, Isaiah 53:5, 1 Peter 3:18, etc.

B4 All humans are sinners (Romans 3:23). The human nature is such that it is addicted to sin (John 8:34). Human nature desires sinful pleasures (Isaiah 47:8 and Titus 3:3). Humans practice committing sin (1 John 3:4). There is no remedy available with our own strength. Sinning is actions against God’s law (Exodus 20:1-21) and can be in thoughts (Matthew 15:19), desires (Proverbs 21:10), words (3 John 1:10), and deeds (Colossians 1:21). Even one sin results in eternal death and punishment (James 2:10). The human will is totally corrupted (Titus 1:15) and cannot seek God (Romans 3:11). We are deceived that we are “good” people; we are evil (Galatians 6:7).

B5 No one could be saved unless God initiates salvation (Romans 3:11, John 6:44, John 12:32). The Holy Spirits open our minds (Luke 24:45), hearts (Acts 16:14), and understanding to see our true evil self, guilt, and the need punishment (Genesis 4:7 NIV). The Holy Spirit convicts us of our sins (John 16:8-9). It is the sovereign act of God to free the will from its bondage to sin. Being freed from this bondage, the Holy Spirit invites all to believe in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We can either resist or not resist.

B6 God’s law is used to know we are sinners (Romans 7:5-12).

B7 There is only one Messiah, Jesus (Matthew 16:16, Luke 2:11, John 4:25-26). No one can be saved from God’s wrath through any other person (Acts 4:12 and 1 Timothy 2:5).

B8 Salvation is grace alone (Ephesians 2:8-9) though faith alone (Philippians 3:9) in Jesus Christ alone (Acts 4:12).

C1 Ephesians 2:8-9 ESV For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

D1 Paul—under inspiration—writes of salvation. Is it by works (something we do) or grace (something God does)? This teaches the contrast. Works do not bring salvation; grace does.

D2 The gift is salvation by grace, not by works. Faith is not the gift in the plain, normal reading and studying of this passage. Faith is contrasted with works.

D3 Works are something we do, a debt, that has wages (Romans 3:20). Faith is not debt that has wages. See Romans 4:1-8.

C2 Faith is believing the message of the Gospel of Jesus. Trusting is something we place in Jesus alone. We need to have our trust in Jesus alone for salvation. Faith is not a work earning salvation. It is the condition that God requires (Romans 1:17).

C3 The good works that James writes about (James 2) is not for salvation. It is the proof of salvation. If I have repented and believed, then I will show a change of life. Two examples are given by James—Abraham and Rahab.

B9 The blood of Jesus alone pays for our sins (1 John 1:7 and Colossians 1:19-22). Jesus suffered for our sins (1 Peter 3:18). Jesus is our Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7). We are guilty of sin and the punishment is eternal, conscious torment (Luke 16:19-31, Revelation 14:10 (there would be no torment unless there was consciousness)). Either we are punished, or a volunteer is punished. The volunteer must be sinless or else this one would have to be punished for their own sin. The substitute must be willing and qualified. Jesus Christ is the only substitute.

B10 We must repent of our sins. Repentance is a complete changed in attitude, motivation, words, thoughts, desires, and deeds. If there is no change, then there has been no repentance. Two examples are King Manasseh (2 Kings 21:11, 16, and 2 Chronicles 33:10-18) and the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). See James 5:19-20, Jeremiah 25:4-6, Jonah 3:10, Isaiah 55:7).

B11 God deals with everyone in a personal way. When a person believes, confession is made of our sin and guilt and a declaration is made pleading for forgiveness of sins (Romans 10:9-10 and Luke 18:11).

B12 Baptism is not necessary for salvation (John 3:16, Ephesians 2:8-9, and see Is baptism necessary for salvation?). It is a statement to God and the world that one has believed in Jesus alone, a declaration to be under the authority of Jesus (compare 1 Corinthians 10:2), and an illustration of being in Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:4 and Colossians 2:12). It also shows the guilt has been washed away (1 Peter 3:21) and a sprinkling cleaning our conscious (Hebrews 10:22).

B13 We must beware of those who pervert the Gospel. Galatians 1:7-9.

B14 Articles:

C1 The FACTS of Salvation F: Freed to Believe by God’s Grace

C2 What is the Gospel?

 

These are always 3 things to keep in mind when reading or listening to a teacher. We must know. We must discern. We must be true.

1 Timothy 1:3-11

Oppose false teachers

B1 There are always false teachers.

B2 We must always be aware of the fact that there are false teachers. 2 Peter 2:1 NRSV But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive opinions. They will even deny the Master who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves.

B3 Often false teachers appear to be the holiest people in the congregation.

C1 They have a fake holiness.

C2 They have a fake love.

C3 They have charisma in their presence, teaching, and leading.

C4 They have and love control over people.

C5 They can bully and shame people.

C6 They usually have secret lives.

C7 A few Bible examples

D1 2 Corinthians 11:3 CSB But I fear that, as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your minds may be seduced from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ.

D2 2 Timothy 2:16-18 CSB Avoid irreverent and empty speech, since those who engage in it will produce even more godlessness, 17 and their teaching will spread like gangrene. Hymenaeus and Philetus are among them. 18 They have departed from the truth, saying that the resurrection has already taken place, and are ruining the faith of some.

D3 Revelation 2:20 NRSV But I have this against you: you tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophet and is teaching and beguiling my servants to practice fornication and to eat food sacrificed to idols.

B4 If we have studied, know, and believe the truth, we will spot them much more quickly.

C1 John 8:32 CSB "You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

C2 It is part of God’s armor: Ephesians 6:14 CSB Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest.

C3 1 Thessalonians 5:21 CSB but test all things. Hold on to what is good.

B4 It is important and a responsibility of the pastor to know what other ,people believe and are teaching, so to warn the brothers and sisters.

B5 False teachers will

C1 Teach something false. Sometimes it is very subtle, so we must clarify at times. They may even change the common definition to what they want it to mean.

C2 Teach things that are speculation to be an important doctrine/s.

C3 Teach the Law (Torah) without even understanding what it really means and/or how it applies to the Christian. Compare the controversy in Acts 15:1-35.

C4 Use every method of Bible interpretation except the plain, normal sense consistently.

B6 This false teaching has an effect on the people leading to discussions, debates, disagreements, etc. so in effect diverting the people from what is important to what is not important.

B7 Paul teaches that the Law is useful for convicting a person of their sins by showing God’s holy standard of thoughts, desires, words, and deeds.

1 Year Bible—Jude

The main topic of Jude, the half-brother of the Lord Jesus, is to beware of false teachers. He explains the reason and gives their characteristics.

False teachers

C1 Can teach close to orthodox but live secret lives ruining some believers. Think of molesters and sexual predators.

C2 Can teach a passage but interpret it differently than the plain, normal sense. They spiritualize, allegorize, redefine, explain away, use reams of paper to mold us to their personal view (eisegesis), etc.

D1 Since Yahweh is omnipotent and omnisapient, He communicates perfectly. What He says or records in Scriptures is the truth. If it is to be symbolic, it will be recorded as such.

D2 We need to read the Scripture as, “What does this passage mean?” Many read and interpret Scripture as, “What is this saying to me?”

C3 Have a goal for power, money, and sex. Sometimes just one goal, sometimes two, or sometimes all three.

Jude 1:3-4 WEL Beloved, I was in the process of promptly writing to you about our common salvation, when I had to write to you and exhort you that you must passionately defend the faith which was once for all [time] committed to the saints.

4 For certain people slipped in unnoticed who were written about in advance for condemnation, ungodly people, changing the grace of our God into a lack of moral restraint and disowning the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ.

C1 Passionately defend the faith.

D1 The Greek word for passionately is ἐπαγωνίζομαι epagōnízomai. It means to be intensely motivated and giving effort to preserve truth and expose evil.

D2 For this type of contention we need the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-18).

C2 The faith here in context and similar usage in the NT refers to the Gospel, doctrines, worldview, and lifestyle of God and His kingdom. It is the whole of Christian faith as taught by the Lord Jesus and His apostles and prophets.

D1 A false Gospel (Galatians 1:7-8).

D2 A false Gospel of faith plus various manmade rules necessary to be saved as in Colossians 2:4-8.

C3 Note that they slip in, that is, they do not openly disclose what they really believe and who they really are.

C4 We have been warned by the former prophets and prophetesses.

D1 Compare 2 Peter 3:17.

D2 See also Matthew 7:15, Matthew 10:17, Matthew 16:6.

D3 And Jeremiah 29:8, Matthew 24:5, 24:11, and 24:24.

C5 They change God’s grace into a lack of moral restraint. Some possibilities are

D1 Since we are saved, we have freedom. An excuse has been used of “I can do all things through Christ.” They selectively isolate the passage from the context. Romans 6:1 NET What shall we say then? Are we to remain in sin so that grace may increase?

D2 They excuse their hard conscience by keeping everything secret. For example, Ezekiel 8:8-9, 12-13 NET He said to me, "Son of man, dig into the wall." So I dug into the wall and discovered a doorway. 9 He said to me, "Go in and see the evil abominations they are practicing here." ... 12 He said to me, "Do you see, son of man, what the elders of the house of Israel are doing in the dark, each in the chamber of his idolatrous images? For they think, 'The LORD does not see us! The LORD has abandoned the land!'" 13 He said to me, "You will see them practicing even greater abominations!"

D3 They feel no guilt. “I am a woman of faith. God loves me.” (I actually heard this once). Proverbs 30:20 NKJV This is the way of an adulterous woman: She eats and wipes her mouth, And says, "I have done no wickedness."

C6 Disowning:

D1 That He is Lord: 1 John 2:22 NKJV Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son.

D2 Abandoning the faith: See 2 Peter 2:1, Matthew 10:33; 1 Timothy 5:8.

D3 The way they live is ungodly, thus, denying Jesus being Lord. These do not obey His commandments, because they do not love Him as shown in their actions. Titus 1:16 NKJV They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work.

Jude 1:5-7 states that God has punished in the past, and He WILL punish in the future. It is a warning to each and all.

Jude 1:8-14 teaches us

C1 Dreamers

D1 These are those who have trances, dreams of “revelation,” visions, etc.

D2 Another translation: Jude 1:8 NASB Yet in the same way these men, also by dreaming, defile the flesh, and reject authority, and revile angelic majesties.

D3 The Greek word is ἐνυπνιάζομαι enypniázomai. It is defined as dreams

E1 Vocabulary Of The Greek Testament: The importance attached to temple visions and dreams in Egypt

E2 These teachers claim that God has revealed things to them via dreams. The message consists of 3 things that these false teachers claim God revealed, that is, defiling the flesh, rejecting authority, and revile (literally blaspheme angelic beings).

E3 Some understand dreams to refer to literal, revelatory dreams, or the dream world of unreality, or delusions, or lying about having dreams to give their teachings credibility.

D4 Compare 2 Timothy 3:1-5.

C2 Jude 1:11 WEL Woe to them! For they followed the way of Cain, ran greedily after the error of Balaam, and were destroyed in the wicked challenge of Korah.

D1 An attitude of rebellion

D2 A lusting for power, control, and money

C3 A love feast is the fellowship meal associated with the Lord’s Supper.

C4 Note how these teachers have no morals, no guilt, no concern for anything or anyone but themselves.

C5 We must avoid these types, put them out of church, and warn people of them. That is part of contending for the faith.

C6 These people are totally void of any fruit or characteristic of God. They are twice dead, that is, completely dead.

C7 They have no shame in what they do or say. Even if they know it is wrong, they do not care. Romans 1:32 NET Although they fully know God’s righteous decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but also approve of those who practice them.

C8 They have a booked reservation for blackness, that is, not light, no comfort, no peace, no rest for eternity. Matthew 25:30 BSB And throw that worthless servant into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

C9 The Lord Jesus will return and judge. Note, He comes with His saints.

Christ comes to judge

C1 He is judge and will judge.

D1 John 5:22 LEB For the Father does not judge anyone, but he has given all judgment to the Son,

D2 Hebrews 10:27 GW All that is left is a terrifying wait for judgment and a raging fire that will consume God's enemies.

D3 Revelation 20:15 LEB And if anyone was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.

C2 These people are described as

D1 Having ungodly actions, so break all the 10 Commandments in thoughts, desires, words, and deeds. So stubborn are they. Compare: Revelation 16:11 ULB They blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pain and sores, and they still refused to repent of what they had done.

D2 Verbal abusers, false accusers, blasphemers, gas lighting bastards, etc.

D3 Complainers, that is, about God’s way of life, worldview, beliefs, decisions, etc.

D4 Find fault, that is, their way is true and everything else is false.

D5 Follow their own desires instead of God’s desires. Is this following our heart?

D6 Are arrogant.

D7 Are flatters, love bombers, etc. to influence and control others.

D8 They mock God, His promises, prophecy, etc.

D9 They cause divisions, that is, pitting people against each other. They enjoy such activity, then they offer to solve the problem. Their solutions are poison.

D10 They hate spiritual things as prayer, reading & studying the Bible, fellowship, etc. unless it gives them prestige.

The proper response

C1 Grow in the faith. We do this by studying and reading the Bible, praying, fellowshiping, etc.

C2 We are to remain in God’s love. Compare Jude 1:6 those who did not keep.

C3 We are to be concerned for each other’s faith. We want all believers to stay true, steadfast, and faithful to the end.

C4 Doubting is not a sin. It is an opportunity to search for the truth. We have a reasonable faith.

C5 Some of the believers might fall into sin. We must go to them and plead their precarious position and actions whether doctrinally or lifestyle.

God protective ability

C1 He is able

C2 He wants to protect us

C3 He wants to present us as being blameless with JOY!!

C4 Praise God!!!!!

Jude 1:25 WEL To the only wise God our Savior, [be] glory, majesty, supremacy, and complete authority, both now and forever. Amen

A Few Thoughts About False Teachers

2 Peter 2:1 LEB But there were also false prophets among the people, as there will be false teachers among you also, who will bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, thus bringing on themselves swift destruction.

2 Corinthians 11:14-15 BSB And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their actions.

Some characteristics of false teachers:

B1 They believe, teach, and lead others into heresies. Heresies are those doctrines/teachings contrary to what was taught by the Lord Jesus, Apostles, or New Testament prophets (James, Jude, etc.). Heresies are doctrines not understand by the plain, normal reading of the Scriptures. See 2 Peter 2:1 (quoted above).

B2 Act and talk very holy. See 2 Corinthians 11:14-15 (quoted above).

B3 Are gifted speakers. They can motivate, captivate, and awe the unsuspecting. Romans 16:18 LEB For such people do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own stomach, and by smooth speech and flattery they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting.

B4 Tell lies to lead people to follow them (the false teachers): Acts 20:29-30 GW I know that fierce wolves will come to you after I leave, and they won't spare the flock. 30 Some of your own men will come forward and say things that distort the truth. They will do this to lure disciples into following them.

B5 Like the Pharisees of Jesus’s day, these teachers appear righteous in public but in private, they are evil. They cover-up, conceal, and persecute any who exposes them: Matthew 23:27-28 ISV How terrible it will be for you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs that look beautiful on the outside but inside are full of dead people's bones and every kind of impurity. 28 In the same way, on the outside you look righteous to people, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.

B6 They tell people things the people want to hear, instead of truth: Isaiah 30:10-11 AMPC Who [virtually] say to the seers [by their conduct], See not! and to the prophets, Prophesy not to us what is right! Speak to us smooth things, prophesy deceitful illusions. 11 Get out of the true way, turn aside out of the path, cease holding up before us the Holy One of Israel.

B7 Making money off the faithful. Beware of those that have huge tables of their books and their friends books and urge, practically demand all to buy them. 2 Corinthians 2:17 NET For we are not like so many others, hucksters who peddle the word of God for profit, but we are speaking in Christ before God as persons of sincerity, as persons sent from God.

B8 Instead of the truth of Scriptures, they turn to stories of their “experiences,” and lead many astray. 2 Peter 2:3 GNB In their greed these false teachers will make a profit out of telling you made-up stories. For a long time now their Judge has been ready, and their Destroyer has been wide awake!

B9 Some can do miracles.

C1 These miracles are not through the power of God but from the power of the devil.

C2 Popular, respected, authoritative, skilled, gifted, etc. and deadly:

D1 Revelation 19:20 AKJV And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that worked miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.

D2 Exodus 7:10-11 ESV So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and did just as the LORD commanded. Aaron cast down his staff before Pharaoh and his servants, and it became a serpent. 11 Then Pharaoh summoned the wise men and the sorcerers, and they, the magicians of Egypt, also did the same by their secret arts.

What is their motive?

B1 Their own self lusting for money, power, even sex.

B2 Dake under the note of “Solomon’s Request” on 1 Kings 3:9 writes: Too often men pray for gifts which they think will make them great in the eyes of others. They want to imitate some other great man and they aren't called or qualified for that particular work. Their motive is selfish. Solomon, on the other hand, asked for wisdom and understanding in the science of government, to give true justice to Israel. One of the chief functions of the eastern monarch has always been to hear and decide causes. Hence, Solomon desired gifts that would best qualify him for his work and calling in life. (Note, as I’ve mentioned before Dake has some notes that are wrong, so be Bereans).

B3 Many false teachers desire to argue, quarrel, and acquire money. 1 Timothy 6:3-5 GNB Whoever teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the true words of our Lord Jesus Christ and with the teaching of our religion 4 is swollen with pride and knows nothing. He has an unhealthy desire to argue and quarrel about words, and this brings on jealousy, disputes, insults, evil suspicions, 5 and constant arguments from people whose minds do not function and who no longer have the truth. They think that religion is a way to become rich.

How to Avoid

B1 Truth

C1 The Correspondence Theory: words, thoughts, ideas, communication, etc. correspond with reality. There also has to be a standard which is eternal, that is, exists in the past, present, and future.

D1 The most famous version of this theory was given by Aristotle in 335 BC in his Metaphysics, Book IV, Chapter 7 To say of what is, that it is not– or of what is not, that it is– is false. While to say of what is, that it is– and of what is not, that it is not– is true. (Source)

D2 John 1:17 NASB For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. (Note, I didn’t like the word “realized” at first but then started thinking that truth did not come into existence but has always existed. Humans are in darkness, ignorant, and deceived, so Jesus, God the Son, has revealed truth to us, thus realized). Compare Psalm 25:5.

D3 The opposite of truth is a lie. Common sense knows these things. Even though philosophy may question this view of truth, they cannot live their daily life without truth in its plain, normal sense.

C2 Read and study the Bible, the only source of 100% truth. Personally, it begins with did Jesus exist, what did he do and teach, and is what we read in the Bible most reasonable?

C3 Every believer has the Holy Spirit, who is able to teach us and give us understanding of the passage. Because God the Spirit is omniscient and omnisapient, He can communicate perfectly, which is one reason to take the Bible in its plain, normal sense. I John 2:27 AKJV But the anointing which you have received of him stays in you, and you need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teaches you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it has taught you, you shall abide in him.

C4 The Lord Jesus, the Apostles, Moses, Noah, Sarah, King David, etc. took the Bible, the words of God, in its plain, normal sense.

B2 Know how to interpret the Bible. (Here is one resource) Pray before and after you study.

C1 Observation

D1 What does the verse say?

D2 Understand the text in the plain, normal sense

D3 Context is important. Use at least the 20/20 rule—20 verses before and 20 verses after.

C2 Interpretation

D1 What does the verse mean?

D2 It is not what we want it to mean, what we FEEL it means, or what does it mean to me.

D3 Do not interpret it through a theological, philosophical, or scientific belief.

C3 Application

D1 What do I need to know?

D2 What do I need to do?

D3 What do I need to change?

B3 The more we study; the more we know, and the less we will be fooled, tricked, deceived by false teachers.

B4 Knowing the truth, we must test teachers and what they teach. If a teacher fails the test of Scripture, then we are to avoid them: 2 John 1:9-11 LEB Everyone who goes too far and does not remain in the teaching of Christ does not have God. The one who remains in the teaching—this person has both the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house and do not speak a greeting to him, 11 because the one who speaks a greeting to him shares in his evil deeds.

Safety for God watches over us

B1 Philippians 1:6 GW I'm convinced that God, who began this good work in you, will carry it through to completion on the day of Christ Jesus.

B2 Jude 1:1 GW From Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James. To those who have been called, who are loved by God the Father, and who are kept safe for Jesus Christ.

B3 Jude 1:24-25 AKJV Now to him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.

1 Timothy 1

1 Timothy 1:1-2

Greetings

• Paul identifies himself as Apostle writing to Timothy.
• Timothy is identified as my true son in the faith.
• Paul had preached the Gospel to Timothy.
• Timothy had been prepared from birth by his grandmother and mother.
• We can learn that grandparents and parents can have a great influence in the spiritual life of a child by reading and teaching the Scriptures.
• We can learn, too, that by memorizing Scripture as a child will be used later by the Holy Spirit to open their mind and heart to the Gospel.

1 Timothy 1:3-11

Oppose false teachers

• There are always false teachers.
• We must always be aware of the fact that there are false teachers.
• Often false teachers appear to be the holiest people in the congregation.
• If we have studied, know, and believe the truth, we will spot them much more quickly.
• It is important and a responsibility of the pastor to know what people believe and are teaching.
• False teachers will
  • Teach something false. Sometimes it is very subtle, so we must clarify at times. They may even change the common definition to what they want it to mean.
  • Teach things that are speculation to be an important doctrine/s.
  • Teach the Law (Torah) without even understanding what it really means and/or how it applies to the Christian. Compare the controversy in Acts 15:1-35.
• This false teaching has an effect on the people leading to discussions, debates, disagreements, etc. so in effect diverting the people from what is important to what is not important.
• Paul teaches that the Law is useful for convicting a person of their sins by showing God’s holy standard of thoughts, desires, words, and deeds.

1 Timothy 1:12-17

Paul’s Testimony and Thankfulness

• Now, Paul rehearses his conversion. Paul considered himself to be blameless according to the Law’s standards (at least outwardly). See Philippians 3:6.
• Paul mentions some of his sins
  • Blasphemer
  • Persecutor
  • Insolent
• Despite his sins, Paul thanks God for His great mercy in giving him understanding of the Gospel and the Gospel itself, which is of Jesus Christ.
• He feels that he is one of the worst of sinners and God’s love showed its greatness towards him.
• We notice the greatness of God’s patience.
• Paul, then, praises God for
  • Being King (King of the universe for sure)
  • Being eternal, immortal, invisible, God who alone is wise
• Because of all these things, God is worthy of the highest honors and praise.

1 Timothy 1:18- 20

Stand true

• Paul reminds Timothy of the prophecies given when he was ordained.
• One of Timothy’s ministries is to wage warfare. This
  • Is not physical as in using the sword.
  • Is spiritual by thinking, living, preaching as a Christian
• Keeping faith is being faithful to what he has been taught by Paul and others.
• A blunted conscious is possible by ignoring or diminishing these teachings.
• Paul mentions 2 teachers who have sinned against God—Hymenaeus and Alexander. These 2
  • Blasphemed God
    • Taking His name in vain
    • Lying about His character and His character traits
    • Teaching lies, which are things not found in the teaching of Jesus Christ or His apostles.

Applications

• Teach our children
• Remember what we are taught
• Be aware that there are false teachers. Some may not reveal themselves until after they have taught truth and have the trust of the congregation.
• We need to study the truth first then do apologetics.
• God will hold teachers responsible if they teach error.
• God wants people saved. So we need to preach and live the Gospel.
• Be thankful for God’s love and mercy. We are not to take those things for granted.
• It is OK to name names.

How Do Believers Recognize a Wolf in the Church

A long outline of the topic

How Do Believers Recognize a Wolf in the Church

Introduction

B1 There are many false teachers.

B2 How can we discern them.

B3 How can we reveal them to be false.

B4 How can we spare others from being deceived.

Notes

C1 Doctrinal problems

C2 Hide what they believe

C3 Act holy and righteous in public

C4 Offer their opinion on doctrinal issues that are not orthodox

C5 Work to get everyone to love and admire them

C6 False gospel

C7 Ashamed of Jesus

C8 Liars

C9 Different Bible interpretation than plain, normal sense

Examples

C1 Judaizers

C2 False converts as Simon the Magician

C3 Hymenaeus

C4 Angel of light

Important things

C1 Doctrine

C2 Bible Interpretation

C3 Scriptural pastors

C4 Christian living

C5 Correct gospel

Some verses

C1 Romans 16:17-20 NKJV - Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple. For your obedience has become known to all. Therefore I am glad on your behalf; but I want you to be wise in what is good, and simple concerning evil. And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you. Amen.

C2 1 Timothy 6:3-5 NKJV - If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, [even] the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which accords with godliness, he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a [means of] gain. From such withdraw yourself.

C3 2 Timothy 2:23 NKJV - But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife.

C4 Galatians 5:13-21 NKJV - For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not [use] liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, [even] in this: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another! I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told [you] in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

C5 James 3:13-18 NKJV - Who [is] wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct [that] his works [are done] in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but [is] earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking [exist], confusion and every evil thing [are] there. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

C6 Romans 14:19-23 NKJV - Therefore let us pursue the things [which make] for peace and the things by which one may edify another. Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All things indeed [are] pure, but [it is] evil for the man who eats with offense. [It is] good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor [do anything] by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak. Do you have faith? Have [it] to yourself before God. Happy [is] he who does not condemn himself in what he approves. But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because [he does] not [eat] from faith; for whatever [is] not from faith is sin.Romans 15:1-3 NKJV - We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please [his] neighbor for [his] good, leading to edification. For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written, "The reproaches of those who reproached You fell on Me."

C7 Deuteronomy 13:1-5 NKJV - "If there arises among you a prophet or a dreamer of dreams, and he gives you a sign or a wonder, "and the sign or the wonder comes to pass, of which he spoke to you, saying, 'Let us go after other gods'--which you have not known--'and let us serve them,' "you shall not listen to the words of that prophet or that dreamer of dreams, for the LORD your God is testing you to know whether you love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul. "You shall walk after the LORD your God and fear Him, and keep His commandments and obey His voice; you shall serve Him and hold fast to Him. "But that prophet or that dreamer of dreams shall be put to death, because he has spoken in order to turn [you] away from the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt and redeemed you from the house of bondage, to entice you from the way in which the LORD your God commanded you to walk. So you shall put away the evil from your midst.

C8 Ezekiel 22:27 CSB - Her officials within her are like wolves tearing their prey, shedding blood, and destroying lives in order to make profit dishonestly.

C9 Habakkuk 1:8 CSB - Their horses are swifter than leopards and more fierce than wolves of the night. Their horsemen charge ahead; their horsemen come from distant lands. They fly like eagles, swooping to devour.

C10 Zephaniah 3:3 CSB - The princes within her are roaring lions; her judges are wolves of the night, which leave nothing for the morning.

C11 Matthew 7:15 CSB - Be on your guard against false prophets who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravaging wolves.

C12 Matthew 10:16 CSB - Look, I'm sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as serpents and as innocent as doves.

C12 Luke 10:3 CSB - Now go; I'm sending you out like lambs among wolves.

C13 Acts 20:29 CSB - I know that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock.

Points

C1 God wants us to know true doctrine (His doctrine).

C2 God wants us to be steadfast to that doctrine.

C3 God does not change.

C4 God’s doctrine does not change.

C5 God’s gospel does not change.

C6 There are many false teachers who want to change God’s gospel, God’s doctrine, and God’s way of life for us.

Commentary on Verses

C1 Matthew 7:15-20 NKJV - "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. "You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? "Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. "A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor [can] a bad tree bear good fruit. "Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. "Therefore by their fruits you will know them.

D1 Pretenders

D2 Fruits

E1 This is slightly what they say.

E2 This is greatly how they live, and what they do.

E3 What they say and what they do must match.

E4 The standard we have is the Bible.

F1 In particular, the New Testament.

F2 Interpretation must be in the plain, normal sense, in context, and taking note of grammar and the culture.

E5 Good is defined by God’s standards, not mine or yours.

D3 Of those who write so good, so true, but they promote and encourage things that God hates. Matthew 23:1-5 CSB - Then Jesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples: "The scribes and the Pharisees are seated in the chair of Moses. "Therefore do whatever they tell you, and observe it. But don't do what they do, because they don't practice what they teach. "They tie up heavy loads that are hard to carry and put them on people's shoulders, but they themselves aren't willing to lift a finger to move them. "They do everything to be seen by others: They enlarge their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels.

D4 These kind of people (trees) will be cut down and destroyed.

C2 Romans 16:17 CSB - Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who create divisions and obstacles contrary to the teaching that you learned. Avoid them.

D1 False teachers of any type work to create divisions. They will try to convince various people in various ways. Some will not be convinced of this teaching, or at least, how wonderful the false teachers are. Some will be won over to this teaching and how wonderful the false teachers are.

D2 Sometimes the false teachers minimize doctrine. “We need love, healing, and forgiveness.”

D3 Teachers who depart from sound doctrine engage in speculation and argumentation which results in strife and friction: (Source).

C3 Revelation 2:14 NKJV - "But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality.

D1 Balak, a prophet of God who later rejected God, “taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel…”

D2 A stumbling block is something that causes another believer (especially so) to sin even to fall from the faith.

D3 We see this happening in domestic abuse, sexual abuse, and other abuses that are revictimized by church leaders.

D4 We see this happening when these false believers/teachers teach others to not live a Christian life according to God’s instructions.

D5 Balaam died for his evil—Joshua 13:22. So will all these false teachers Jeremiah 14:14-16, Jeremiah 28:16-17, Jeremiah 29:31-32,

C4 2 Peter 2:1 NKJV - But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, [and] bring on themselves swift destruction.

D1 Israel had false prophets

E1 Promised peace when there was no peace

E2 Did not preach about sin

E3 Prophesied in God’s name, but God says that He did not send them.

D2 Church has false teachers

E1 Promise peace when there is none

E2 Don’t not preach about sin, just love, healing, and the good life.

E3 Destructive heresies because they to blaspheming God’s character, God’s ways, and God’s thoughts.

E4 False Gospel. This is mainly that we must do something instead of grace alone through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone.

E5 False Christian life.

F1 Judaizers—must keep all or parts of the Old Testament (usually the Torah).

F2 Legalists—following man made laws to be right with God.

F3 Some King James Only (KJO) groups that teach any other version is of the devil.

E6 Hypocrites

F1 Teach something they do not follow.

F2 What they teach and what they do otherwise: Matthew 23:1-5 NKJV - Then Jesus spoke to the multitudes and to His disciples, saying: "The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat. "Therefore whatever they tell you to observe, [that] observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do. "For they bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay [them] on men's shoulders; but they [themselves] will not move them with one of their fingers. "But all their works they do to be seen by men. They make their phylacteries broad and enlarge the borders of their garments.

E7 Some names: 2 Timothy 2:17-18 Modern English Version (MEV) and their word will spread like gangrene: Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, who have erred concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection has already occurred, and who overthrow the faith of some.

C5 Jeremiah 14:14-15 CSB - But the LORD said to me, "These prophets are prophesying a lie in my name. I did not send them, nor did I command them or speak to them. They are prophesying to you a false vision, worthless divination, the deceit of their own minds. "Therefore, this is what the LORD says concerning the prophets who prophesy in my name, though I did not send them, and who say, 'There will never be sword or famine in this land.' By sword and famine these prophets will meet their end.

D1 Prophesy lies.

D2 God states that He did not send them. The false prophets state that God did send them.

D3 Methods

E1 False vision

E2 Worthless divination

E3 Deceit of the own mind.

D4 They will receive God’s punishment.

C6 2 Peter 2:1-3 CSB - There were indeed false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, and will bring swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their depraved ways, and the way of truth will be maligned because of them. They will exploit you in their greed with made-up stories. Their condemnation, pronounced long ago, is not idle, and their destruction does not sleep.

D1 Bring in destructive heresies (as false Gospel: Galatians 1:8-9 NKJV - But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.

D2 Deny Christ.

E1 They have false doctrine of Jesus.

E2 They may deny His deity.

E3 They may deny His humanity.

E4 They may deny other things about Jesus.

D3 Depraved

E1 Instead of a godly lifestyle, they have a depraved lifestyle.

E2 The New Testament gives many rules of living a godly lifestyle, but these will not live that way. They only acknowledge a “freedom” from all those rules.

D4 Way of truth maligned.

E1 Their false doctrine and false way of life are not the truths taught in the New Testament.

E2 They teach, “Well, that passage only addresses those in the first century.”

E3 They teach, “Well, times have changed, and now we know more.”

E4 They teach, “Well, I can do that, because God has told me I can.”

C7 Jeremiah 14:15 CSB - "Therefore, this is what the LORD says concerning the prophets who prophesy in my name, though I did not send them, and who say, 'There will never be sword or famine in this land.' By sword and famine these prophets will meet their end. The punishment for being false is death.

C8 2 Peter 2:14-17 NKJV - having eyes full of adultery and that cannot cease from sin, enticing unstable souls. They have a heart trained in covetous practices, [and are] accursed children. They have forsaken the right way and gone astray, following the way of Balaam the [son] of Beor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness; but he was rebuked for his iniquity: a dumb donkey speaking with a man's voice restrained the madness of the prophet. These are wells without water, clouds carried by a tempest, for whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever.

D1 Adultery

E1 This may be sexual immorality and sins.

E2 It may be living to please their fleshly comforts—money, power, fame, control, etc.

D2 Seduce

E1 This may be grooming for sexual abuse.

E2 This may be speaking lies to get others to stop living a godly lifestyle.

D3 Unstable:

E1 Those not solid in the faith

E2 Those who drift from the truth

E3 Those who are starved in their Christian life by not reading the Bible, praying, and having fellowship with others.

D4 Trained in greed:

E1 They practice sin.

E2 They practice lying, stealing, plotting against others.

E3 They are training vigorously.

E4 The Greek word is γυμνάζω gymnazō and means to exercise vigorously, in any way, either the body or the mind (Source).

D5 Instead of a Christian life, they lead another type of life, which leads to God’s judgment.

D6 Balaam is one example. See Numbers 22-24.

Summary

B1 They want followers.

B2 They do not follow Jesus Christ’s teachings in their plain, normal sense.

B3 They change the meaning of the Scriptures: redefine words, take words out of context, string texts together to give a new meaning, use the authority of scholarship to change the meaning, bully, manipulate, sweet talk, love bomb, and any thing else.

B4 They state that times have changed.

B5 They give new revelation, which they claim is pure, not like the “old written letter” of the Bible.

B6 They live by their visions, feelings, desires, opinions, dreams, greed, and need for control.

B7 They have a false gospel.

B8 They have false doctrine.

B9 They appeal to the lusts of the flesh.

B10 Often, they have charismatic personalities.

B11 Jesus warns us they are coming.

C1 As wolves

C2 As angels of light

C3 As ministers

C4

B12 To avoid disaster

C1 Truth is most important.

C2 Interpret the Bible in its plain, normal sense, in context, and checking cross references.

C3 Pray

C4 Read and study the Bible.

C5 Fellowship with like-minded people.

C6 Be a little skeptical.

B13 More verse: Matthew 7:15, Luke 6:26, Romans 16:18, Matthew 24:5, Matthew 24:11, Matthew 24:24, Acts 20:29, 2 Corinthians 11:13-15, Galatians 4:17, Ephesians 4:14, Colossians 2:8, Colossians 2:18, 1 Timothy 4:1-3, 2 Timothy 3:1-9, 2 Timothy 4:3, Titus 1:11, 1 John 2:18-19, 1 John 2:26, Jude 1:18, Galatians 2:4, 2 Peter 2:3, and Philippians 3:19.

Articles

https://bible.org/seriespage/39-watching-out-wolves-romans-1617-27

https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/5-ways-to-recognize-a-wolf-in-sheep-s-clothing.html

Copyright © 2018 by Len Gane All rights reserved.