How can we discern false teachings today, as warned in Jeremiah 23:9? Jeremiah’s Piercing Alarm “As for the prophets: My heart is broken within me, all my bones tremble; I have become like a drunken man, like a man overcome by wine, because of the LORD and because of His holy words.” (Jeremiah 23:9) • Jeremiah trembles because those claiming to speak for God are distorting “His holy words.” • The same grief should stir us whenever Scripture is twisted today. Truth’s Unshakable Plumb Line • “All Scripture is God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16); therefore, every teaching is measured, word-for-word, against the literal text of the Bible. • God never contradicts Himself: “The word of our God stands forever” (Isaiah 40:8). • Even angelic visions are rejected if they oppose the gospel: “If we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed!” (Galatians 1:8). Four Reliable Tests 1. Scripture Test – Compare the message to the whole counsel of God (Acts 17:11). – A single verse pulled from context is never allowed to silence clear, consistent passages elsewhere. 2. Christ-Exalting Test – True teaching magnifies the Lord Jesus as fully divine, crucified, risen, and returning (John 14:6; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4). – If Christ’s person or work is diminished, the doctrine is false. 3. Fruit Test – “By their fruit you will recognize them” (Matthew 7:16-20). – Watch for humility, holiness, and love, not arrogance, greed, or secret sin (2 Peter 2:1-3). 4. Gospel Test – Salvation by grace through faith alone must remain central (Ephesians 2:8-9). – Any system adding human merit, ritual, or new revelation fails the gospel test. Practical Safeguards for Daily Life • Stay saturated in the Word: a steady reading plan guards the mind. • Keep fellowship with a sound local church where elders hold to “sound doctrine” (Titus 1:9). • Weigh every book, podcast, and sermon with prayerful discernment. • Refuse teachings that elevate feelings, culture, or “fresh revelation” above clear Scripture (Jeremiah 23:16-17). • Confront error in love, restoring those led astray (Galatians 6:1). Standing Firm While Others Sway Jeremiah’s bones shook at the thought of God’s Word being mishandled. With the same reverence, we cling to the literal, inerrant Scriptures, rely on the Spirit of truth (John 16:13), and protect the flock from every counterfeit voice until the Chief Shepherd appears (1 Peter 5:4). |
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