How can we discern false teachings today, as seen in Acts 15:24? Verse in focus “Since we have heard that some of our number, to whom we gave no instruction, have troubled…” (Acts 15:24) What was happening in Acts 15 • Believers from Judea claimed Gentile converts must be circumcised to be saved. • The apostles and elders met in Jerusalem, measured the claim against the gospel, and sent a corrective letter. • Key takeaway: even in the earliest church, unauthorized voices arose and had to be tested. Why false teaching is dangerous • It “unsettles souls,” eroding assurance (Acts 15:24). • It distorts the gospel (Galatians 1:7-9). • It secretly introduces destructive heresies (2 Peter 2:1). Timeless markers that expose false teaching • Gospel drift—salvation by anything other than grace through faith alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Unauthorized source—speakers not sent or affirmed by Scripture-faithful leaders (Acts 15:24; Jeremiah 23:21). • Scripture twist—text pulled from context, reshaped to fit modern agendas (2 Timothy 2:15). • Character rot—greed, immorality, or domineering behavior (Matthew 7:15-20). • Denial of Christ’s person or work—“every spirit that does not confess Jesus” is false (1 John 4:3). Practical ways to discern today 1. Anchor in the written Word • “All Scripture is God-breathed…” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Read entire passages, not isolated sound bites. 2. Compare teaching with the apostolic gospel • Does it add requirements? subtract commands? redefine grace? 3. Check the messenger’s accountability • Are they recognized by a biblically sound church or operating solo? 4. Observe the fruit • Humility, holiness, love, and truth indicate God’s work (James 3:13-18). 5. Test by the Spirit • “Test the spirits to see whether they are from God” (1 John 4:1). • The Spirit never contradicts the Word He inspired. 6. Seek counsel in community • The Jerusalem Council modeled collective discernment. • Invite mature believers to weigh questionable claims. Everyday checklist • Keep a steady Bible-reading rhythm. • Take sermon notes, comparing points with Scripture. • Research historical orthodoxy—creeds, confessions, early church writings. • Guard your media intake; falsehood often spreads through music, podcasts, and reels. • Memorize key gospel passages (John 3:16; Romans 3:23-26; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Stay teachable: correctable hearts discern best. Encouragement to remain steadfast False voices will keep sounding, but the Lord preserves His people. By anchoring ourselves in His unchanging Word, walking in fellowship with faithful believers, and relying on the Spirit who guides “into all truth” (John 16:13), we can recognize error and hold fast to the faith once delivered to the saints. |
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