How Can You Tell?  
 

by Aubrey Belue

It is a sad fact of life that there are more teachers today than there are truth-tellers. Obviously, this is no secret to God, and in several ways He has put us on notice. Matt 7:15 says to beware of false prophets, who will come to us appearing to be innocent. 2 Cor 11:13-15 warns that they will appear to be righteous. 1 John 4:1 calls upon us to “do not believe every spirit...try the spirits...many false prophets ..” Gal 1:6-ff mentions some who pervert the word of God, who will stand accursed.. Much more scriptural information confirms the nature and intensity of the danger. So, we must be on guard. In my experience, I have picked up on some telltale indicators which – more often than not –signal the possibility of a false teacher. 

If he presents his side, but is too “sweet” to argue with anyone to establish proof, and rejects his obligation to “contend earnestly”. (Learning and maintaining the doctrine of Christ is “heavy lifting” and often causes fallible men to be at odds with one another, as they seek to reconcile actions and authority. We must confront one another “with all perseverance” (2 Cor 12:12), as long as the issues divide us. ) 

If he claims high respect for divine authority, but then quickly goes outside the written word to determine actions and activities of the church and disciples. 

If he elevates his assumptions to the level of divine law.

If he complains when someone informs others of his positions, properly represented, and plays the victim.

If he seeks to minimize the doctrinal differences between various brethren, and urges glossing over them.

If he in some way makes light of those who are intent on simply learning, obeying and teaching the will of God.

If he resorts to “special definitions” to strengthen his case, often to leave the impression his chosen meaning is virtually the only one. 

If he preaches “love” more than he does “truth”, and bases his solution more on discerning human hearts than on coming to agreement on specific Bible doctrines.

Obviously, these are not Bible-revealed qualities, but they are common tactics which usually can be found in those with a special agenda. There may be those who exhibit one or more of them who are still trusting in God’s word.

We are all flawed, and being mistaken about what is truth is likely to happen to any of us, at any time. The one who pleases God is not the one who perfectly understands, but the one who is open to correction, and has the courage to plainly teach his convictions and be patient in explaining them.
 

 

 

Other Articles by Aubrey Belue

What Is Wrong With Exclusive?
Restricting the Never Bound
Get Thee Behind Me Satan
Two Visions of the Church
The Exculpatory Rule
It's Not How You Feel