Scripture:
2 Peter 2:1–3
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. Even so, many will follow their debaucheries, and because of these teachers the way of truth will be maligned. And in their greed they will exploit you with deceptive words. Their condemnation, pronounced against them long ago, has not been idle, and their destruction is not asleep. (NRSVUE)
Observation:
This is a warning for God’s people to be discerning. There have always been false prophets and teachers, and there will continue to be those who seek to lead God’s people astray. They work in secretive ways, introducing destructive opinions that may initially sound appealing. But ultimately, their teaching leads people away from Jesus Christ—the very One who has provided for their salvation. By denying Him, they bring destruction upon themselves.
Their false teaching goes beyond words and is reflected in their way of life. As a result, the way of truth is maligned. These teachers are self-centered and filled with greed. They exploit their listeners and are willing to use deceptive words to accomplish their purposes.
Peter warns that they will be held accountable for their actions. God has not been unaware of what they have been doing!
Application:
Reading this passage, it could have been written today. We live in a season when many claim to be followers of Jesus Christ, but their understanding of who He is seems to have little connection to historic Christian faith. I’ve heard some who say that they don’t proclaim any particular “belief,” but they do support a “value system.”
Jesus is not a “value system”—Jesus is the Son of God.
We have a faith that has been handed down to us through historic Christianity and expressed in the creeds. We believe that Jesus is the Son of God. He gave His life for the salvation of the world, died on the cross, and rose again. Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, we are invited to participate in the life of the Triune God. This is the life into which we have been called.
And this is a life of humility. It follows the example of Jesus Christ, who came as a servant. His is a way of leadership that seeks healing and reconciliation rather than personal gain or power over others.
That’s why we need to pay attention not only to what people teach but also to how they live. Are they pointing us toward Jesus Christ, or are they drawing attention to themselves? Are they serving others, or are they using people to advance their own interests? Are their words and actions consistent with the character of Christ?
Be careful that you are not swayed simply by persuasive words. Instead, remain sensitive to the Holy Spirit in all things. Ask and pray for discernment. And anytime someone encourages you to do something that makes you stop and say, “Hmmm,” take the time to examine it in light of the truth of God’s Word.
We need to know the One we follow so that we can recognize when someone is leading us in another direction.
Prayer:
Lord, please help me to keep my ear tuned to You and Your leading. Help me to be discerning of the voices I hear around me. Amen.
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