2 Peter, Day 3
False Teachers, Part 2
Scripture Reading: 2 Peter 2:12 – 22
Growing up, I had a friend who got involved in a cult when he was in high school. This cult preyed on young people, and he got sucked in. He left home with the cult’s help and they moved him to a different city. Since he was not yet 18, they denied any knowledge of where he was or of helping him at all. His parents weren’t buying it, and they relentlessly pursued him using every legal means they could. It was through this effort that he eventually was reunited with his family. And this family’s event eventually had a very happy ending as they all became believers in the true Jesus. I say true Jesus because the cult twisted things about Jesus and what is given to us in His Word, which made it very easy and tempting for young people to fall into their trap.
False teachers are not something new. They were dealing with them in New Testament times, and we are dealing with them today. But we know that today there are more of them. In our reading today, we see what is in store for them. Verse 13 tells us that they will be paid back with harm for the harm that they have done. There is a well-known former pastor who I feel falls into this group. He started a church and it grew into a megachurch. Yet, he eventually was asked to leave because his teaching started to disagree with what the Bible tells us. He has written several books. I will not mention his name even though some of you may know who I am referring to. He is still out there spreading his form of theology. I do not hesitate to call him a false teacher and unfortunately, he still continues to mislead many. At first glance, he does not seem that bad. But when you dig into what he is saying, it is misleading.
So, how do we fight this? Stay involved in several ways. First, know God’s Word. That will help us identify false teachers. Second, nurture that relationship with God daily. Spend time talking with Him. Third, stay involved in the local body of believers and by this, I don’t mean just go to worship services — be involved in a L.I.F.E. group. Be involved in a small group where accountability takes place. Fourth, look out for others.
Dave Kellerman