How can we discern false teachings in light of Amos 7:16? Setting the Scene in Amos 7:16 “Now therefore, hear the word of the LORD: You say, ‘Do not prophesy against Israel, and do not preach against the house of Isaac.’” (Amos 7:16) In the northern kingdom, Amaziah the priest tried to muzzle Amos. The demand was clear: Stop bringing God’s uncomfortable word. That attempt to silence Scripture unveils the core of all false teaching: it resists or revises God’s revealed truth. Recognizing the Voice That Silences Scripture • False teaching often begins with a call to soften, silence, or sideline the Word of God • It trades divine authority for cultural approval, popularity, or personal comfort • Amos was pressured to conform, yet he held the line because the Lord had spoken Four Biblical Tests for Discernment 1. The Source Test • Isaiah 8:20: “To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, there is no light of dawn.” • Any message that contradicts or diminishes the written Word fails immediately. 2. The Gospel Test • Galatians 1:8: “Even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be under a curse.” • Salvation by grace through faith in Christ alone must remain untouched. 3. The Fruit Test • Matthew 7:15-20: good trees bear good fruit; bad trees bear bad fruit. • Watch for humility, holiness, love, and obedience versus pride, impurity, greed, and rebellion. 4. The Berean Test • Acts 17:11: the Bereans examined the Scriptures daily to see if Paul’s teaching was true. • Regular, personal Bible intake guards against deception. Practical Steps for Daily Discernment • Fill the mind with Scripture before listening to voices around you (Psalm 119:11) • Compare every sermon, song, blog, or podcast with the plain meaning of the text • Note any urge from leaders to avoid certain passages; silence of Scripture is a red flag • Listen for redefinitions of sin, holiness, or the exclusivity of Christ (2 Peter 2:1-3) • Stay engaged in a local church that teaches the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27) • Rely on the Holy Spirit, who guides into all truth (John 16:13) Encouragement to Stand Firm Amos refused to compromise, and God vindicated his message. The same Lord equips believers today. Holding fast to Scripture will expose error, preserve truth, and honor Christ until He returns (2 Timothy 4:2-4). |
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