What steps can we take to protect the flock from false teachings? Opening Scripture Acts 20:29: “After my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock.” Recognize the Threat • Paul warns of predators inside the church, not just outside. • Jesus echoes this: “Beware of false prophets…inwardly they are ravenous wolves” (Matthew 7:15). Stay Anchored in the Word • 2 Timothy 3:16: “All Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training.” • Regular expository preaching and whole-Bible reading fortify discernment. • Encourage members to test every message against Scripture (Acts 17:11). Raise Up Watchful Shepherds • Elders must “hold firmly to the trustworthy message” and “encourage and refute” (Titus 1:9). • Provide ongoing doctrinal training and mutual accountability among leaders. Nurture Discernment in Every Believer • 1 John 4:1: “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are from God.” • Offer classes on core doctrines and basic hermeneutics. • Model Berean practice—verify before you believe. Guard the Pulpit and the Classroom • Vet guest speakers, teachers, and study materials. • Require agreement with the church’s statement of faith. • Place mature overseers in small groups to monitor teaching quality. Practice Church Discipline When Needed • Follow Matthew 18:15-17 for confronting persistent error. • Publicly correct false teaching so the flock grasps the danger (Romans 16:17). Depend on the Holy Spirit • The Spirit “will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). • Pray for insight and courage to confront deception. Keep the Flock Closely Connected to Christ • Ephesians 4:14: “Then we will no longer be infants…carried about by every wind of teaching.” • A vibrant relationship with Jesus dulls the appeal of lies. • Jude 3-4: “Contend earnestly for the faith…For certain men have crept in unnoticed.” Summary Action Plan 1. Teach the whole counsel of God. 2. Train and screen leaders. 3. Equip every member to discern. 4. Monitor all teaching venues. 5. Address error swiftly and biblically. 6. Lean on the Spirit while exalting Christ. Consistently living out these steps builds a sturdy fence that keeps wolves at bay and safeguards the flock in truth. |
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