How can we discern false teachings like those in Jeremiah 18:18? The Warning Exposed “Then they said, ‘Come, let us devise a plan against Jeremiah. The instruction will never be lost from the priest, nor counsel from the wise, nor a word from the prophet. Come, let us strike him with our tongues and pay no heed to any of his words.’” (Jeremiah 18:18) Defining False Teaching • Any message that contradicts or sidesteps the written Word, no matter how religious it sounds • Often clothed in familiar titles—“priest,” “wise,” “prophet” (18:18)—yet aimed at silencing God’s voice • Smooth words that promise spiritual security while rejecting the authority of Scripture Scriptural Tests for Truth • Alignment with the whole counsel of God (Acts 17:11; 2 Timothy 3:16–17) • Exaltation of Jesus Christ and His finished work (John 14:6; 1 John 4:2–3) • Faithful continuity with the gospel once delivered (Galatians 1:6–9; Jude 3–4) • Observable fruit of righteousness, not corruption (Matthew 7:15–20; 1 John 3:10) • Illumination by the Holy Spirit, never contrary to written revelation (John 16:13; 1 Corinthians 2:12–14) Practical Discernment Steps Today • Read the Bible daily, noting context and authorial intent • Compare every teaching—even from trusted leaders—to plain Scripture • Track recurring themes: self-exaltation, denial of sin, or rejection of Christ’s exclusivity • Listen for evasive language that treats clear commands as optional • Observe lifestyle and accountability structures of teachers (1 Timothy 4:16) • Seek counsel from mature believers grounded in the Word • Stay alert to subtle redefinitions of key doctrines such as atonement, marriage, or resurrection Safeguards for Hearts and Homes • Memorize key texts that confront popular errors (e.g., 2 Peter 2; 2 Timothy 4:3-4) • Cultivate a habit of immediate repentance when Scripture corrects conduct or belief • Guard media intake, ensuring sermons, books, and music honor biblical truth • Foster family conversations rooted in Deuteronomy 6:6-7, reinforcing truth morning and night • Commit to a local congregation that preaches verse-by-verse and practices church discipline Encouragement to Stand Firm God preserved Jeremiah despite opposition; He likewise fortifies believers who cherish His Word. Holding fast to Scripture, empowered by the Spirit, secures discernment and keeps the church radiant with truth until Christ returns (Philippians 1:9-11; Revelation 3:8). |
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