BoldBelief Devotional

Navigating the Web of False Teachings

Add comment2 weeks ago3 min readby Paul Natekin

#BoldBeliefDevotional by Paul Natekin

Key Bible Verse:

“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” — 1 John 4:1 (NIV)

Ever felt confused by different teachings claiming to be Christian but sounding, well, a bit off? It’s like trying to find your way through a maze, isn’t it? Today, let’s explore how we can discern the truth from the distortions.

Apologetic Insight:

Cults often present themselves as new revelations or special insights into the Bible. As Dr. Norman Geisler explains, “The hallmark of a cult is that it elevates its teachings above the authority of Scripture.” This can lead to a distorted view of God, Jesus, and salvation:

Distorted View of God: Some cults deny the Trinity or claim that everything is God (pantheism).
Jesus as Less Than Divine: Cults might present Jesus as just a man or a lesser deity, not equal with the Father. As Dr. J. Warner Wallace notes, “The historical evidence for the divinity of Christ is overwhelming, yet cults often reject or reinterpret this core Christian belief.”
Salvation by Works: Instead of salvation through grace, cults often teach that humans must earn their way to God or even achieve godhood themselves.

1 John 4:1 reminds us to test every teaching against the truth of God’s Word. The Bible provides a clear and consistent message about God, Jesus, and salvation that stands in contrast to the teachings of cults.

Encouragement & Application:

Navigating the maze of false teachings can be daunting, but remember, God has given us His Word as our guide. Here’s what you can do:

Stay Rooted in Scripture: Regularly read and study the Bible to recognize truth from deception.
Seek Wisdom: Engage with trusted Christian mentors, teachers, or apologists who can help you discern and address these teachings.
Pray for Discernment: Ask God for wisdom to recognize His voice amidst the noise of false teachings.

Reflection Questions:

Have you encountered teachings that seemed to conflict with the Bible? How did you respond?
What steps can you take to ensure that your faith is grounded in the truth of Scripture?

Prayer:

Father, in a world full of voices vying for our attention, help us to discern Your truth. Give us the wisdom to test every spirit, the courage to stand firm in our faith, and the humility to learn and grow. Guide us by Your Spirit, and protect us from the snares of false teachings. In Jesus’ name, Amen.