Identifying and Responding to False Teachers

Contending for the Word – September 10, 2025
Written by Dave Jenkins

The Reality of False Teachers

From the earliest days of the church, God’s people have been warned about the danger of false teachers. Jesus said, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves” (Matthew 7:15). Paul cautioned the Ephesian elders that “fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock” (Acts 20:29). Peter also warned that “false teachers… will secretly bring in destructive heresies” (2 Peter 2:1).

False teachers are not a hypothetical danger; they are a present and ongoing threat. So how can Christians identify false teachers? The Bible gives clear answers.

Characteristics of False Teachers

• Twisting Scripture: They distort God’s Word to fit their agenda (2 Peter 3:16).
• Promoting Greed: Many are motivated by money and exploit others for gain (2 Peter 2:3; 1 Timothy 6:5).
• Denial of Christ’s Work: They downplay or deny Jesus’ deity, humanity, or sufficiency (1 John 4:1–3).
• Immoral Living: Their lifestyles often contradict the holiness God requires (Jude 4).
• Popularity and Flattery: They appeal to itching ears and tell people what they want to hear (2 Timothy 4:3–4).
• Authoritarian or Self-Exalting: Instead of pointing people to Christ, they draw disciples after themselves (Acts 20:30).

Testing the Teachers

Christians are not left without tools. Scripture calls us to test everything (1 Thessalonians 5:21) and to be like the Bereans, who examined the Scriptures daily to see if what Paul taught was true (Acts 17:11).

• By Scripture: Does their teaching align with the whole counsel of God’s Word?
• By the Gospel: Do they proclaim salvation by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone?
• By Fruit: Does their character, conduct, and ministry produce holiness, humility, and love?
• By Confession: Do they confess Jesus as the eternal Son of God, crucified and risen?

Why It Matters

False teachers are spiritually dangerous because they lead people away from Christ. They promise freedom but lead to slavery (2 Peter 2:19). They offer spiritual-sounding solutions but ultimately deny the sufficiency of God’s Word.

Identifying and rejecting false teachers is essential for protecting the church, guarding the gospel, and keeping believers in the truth.

A Biblical Response

Christians must not only avoid false teachers but also grow in the truth. Maturity comes through regular intake of God’s Word, sound teaching, prayer, and fellowship in a healthy local church. Hebrews 5:14 reminds us that discernment is developed by constant practice in distinguishing good from evil.

Discernment is an expression of love. It is love for God’s truth, love for His people, and love for the deceived who need the true gospel.

Conclusion

False teachers may look impressive, speak persuasively, and attract large crowds. Jesus said, “You will recognize them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16). Christians must hold fast to the Word of God, cling to the true gospel, and remain rooted in Christ, who is the Good Shepherd and the Head of His church.

In a day of confusion and compromise, the call is clear: test the spirits, cling to the truth, and follow Christ alone.

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