Beech Tree News Network

            When Peter spoke of the false teachers (II Pet. 2:1), he warned that these people would “with feigned words make merchandise of you” (v. 3). This warning concerning false teachers has been consistent since the gospel was first preached! Jesus and Paul warned about false teachers on several occasions (Matt. 7:15; Acts 20:29-30; Col. 2:8).

            When we remember the broader context of II Peter, we see why Peter was motivated to remind folks of the truth. He knew false prophets were active. This is the tragedy that faces us. As soon as the gospel is preached, there’s a warning concerning false teachers! This fact shows us how hurtful and deceptive Satan is. You see, as soon as something beautiful comes along, Satan is ready to ruin it. He did this in the Garden (Gen. 3:1-6), he did it through false prophets (Matt. 7:15; II Pet 2:3; etc.), and he still does it today. He wants us “drawn away” from God and drawn to his kingdom (Acts 20:28; Jas. 1:14-15). Satan’s false teachers promise us freedom (II Pet. 2:19), but they’re trying actually to make us their “spoil” and enslave us in sin.

            How can I know who the false teacher is? I’ll know when I see someone who is willfully teaching a doctrine that is opposed to the truth -- a “damnable” heresy! This isn’t someone who has a different opinion or a “quirk,” (Rom. 14) but someone who is teaching a doctrine opposed to the Lord’s word and wants you to go with him! Listen to Solomon, “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not” (Prov. 1:10)! The warning against listening to false teachers was given in Deuteronomy 13, and it needs to be heeded still today (Rom. 15:4)!

             False teachers aren’t your friends! The false teacher tries to endear himself to you, but he’s merely using “feigned words,” misleading words, lies, or perverse teachings, to “draw away disciples,” and make “merchandise” or make you a “spoil.” The false teacher may come along to tell you that he’s “discovered” something that no one else has seen in millennia. He’s seen through the religious “fog” and discovered something unique, special, and it’ll put you closer to God than you’ve ever been before (see: II Pet. 2:19). If you would only listen to him and follow him, then you could be smart, too! Don’t stay in ignorance, but accept this “truth” that’s been hidden, or lost for ages! This is but one example of “feigned words.” You’re nothing more to the false teacher than something to conquer. You don’t have value in the eyes of a false teacher. Your worth is gauged by what you can do for the false teacher rather than what you can do for God!

 Don’t become the “spoil” or “merchandise” of a false teacher! Instead, submit your life to the inspired Word of God (II Pet. 1:20-21) and follow it all of your life (Rev. 2:10; Heb. 5:9). See the blessings that come when you listen to God instead of man (Jer. 10:23; II Tim. 2:15; Eph. 3:4)!

 -- You are invited to visit with the Caneyville church of Christ. Times of services: Sun.: 10:00 am, 10:45 am, 5:00 pm; Wed.: 7:00 pm. Website: http://caneyvillechurchofchrist.com Tune in to our radio program 101.5 FM at 5:30 am, Mon-Fri. Questions? Call: (270) 589-4167