How does Galatians 4:30 instruct us to handle false teachings in the church?

◄ Galatians 4:30 on false teachings? ►

“ ‘Expel the slave woman and her son, for the slave woman’s son will never share in the inheritance with the free woman’s son.’ ” (Galatians 4:30)

• Paul applies this Genesis quotation to the problem of false teachers.

• “Expel” is decisive language—no compromise, no coexistence.

• The “slave woman” represents teachings that enslave; the “free woman” represents the gospel of grace.

• Allowing both to remain would jeopardize the church’s inheritance of freedom in Christ.

\Why Such Firm Action?\

• False teaching is spiritual slavery; it pulls believers back under bondage (Galatians 5:1).

• Error spreads quickly—“a little leaven leavens the whole batch” (1 Corinthians 5:6–7).

• Souls are at stake; shepherds must guard the flock (Acts 20:28–30).

\Practical Steps for Today\

1. Identify the error

– Measure every message against clear Scripture (Acts 17:11).

2. Confront privately first (Matthew 18:15).

3. Warn the church if there is no repentance (1 Timothy 5:20).

4. Remove platform and influence

– Decline teaching invitations, revoke leadership roles, withdraw endorsements.

5. Maintain fellowship only if the gospel is affirmed; otherwise “turn away” (Romans 16:17).

6. Keep restoring spirit ready for those who repent (Galatians 6:1).

\Supporting Scriptures\

• Romans 16:17—“Turn away from them.”

• 2 John 10–11—“Do not receive him into your home or even greet him.”

• Titus 1:10–11—“They must be silenced.”

• 1 Corinthians 5:6–7—“Get rid of the old leaven.”

• Jude 3–4—“Contend for the faith… certain men have crept in unnoticed.”

\A Call to Courageous Discernment\

• Love for Christ’s flock demands vigilance.

• Firm action is not harshness; it is protection.

• Stand for truth with humility, but without hesitation, so the inheritance of freedom remains pure for every believer.