How can we discern false teachings in light of Jeremiah 23:14? Setting the Scene: Jeremiah’s Warning “Among the prophets of Jerusalem I have seen something horrible: They commit adultery and walk in falsehood. They strengthen the hands of evildoers, so that no one turns back from his wickedness” (Jeremiah 23:14). Core Marks of False Teaching in Jeremiah 23:14 • Moral compromise: “commit adultery.” • Deception: “walk in falsehood.” • Encouraging sin: “strengthen the hands of evildoers.” • Lack of repentance: “no one turns back from his wickedness.” Recognizing the Same Patterns Today • Teachers who excuse or normalize sexual immorality (Ephesians 5:6). • Messages that downplay sin or redefine it (Isaiah 5:20). • Leaders who gain influence by flattering sinners rather than calling for repentance (2 Timothy 4:3). Scriptural Tests for Discernment 1. Doctrinal fidelity – Compare every message with “the faith once delivered to the saints” (Jude 3). – Any departure from the gospel Paul preached is “anathema” (Galatians 1:6-9). 2. Christ-centered focus – True teaching “confesses Jesus Christ has come in the flesh” (1 John 4:2-3). 3. Moral fruit – “You will know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:15-20). – Consistent holiness must mark both message and messenger (1 Peter 1:15-16). 4. Prophetic accuracy – Predictive claims must come true (Deuteronomy 18:20-22). 5. Alignment with the whole counsel of God – The Spirit never contradicts Scripture (2 Peter 1:20-21). Practical Steps for the Faithful • Saturate your mind with Scripture daily (Psalm 1:2). • Test every sermon, book, and podcast against the Bible (Acts 17:11). • Observe the teacher’s lifestyle over time (1 Timothy 4:16). • Stay planted in a biblically sound local church (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Seek counsel from mature believers when something feels off (Proverbs 11:14). Encouragement to Stand Firm False voices will keep multiplying (2 Peter 2:1-3), yet God’s Word remains “a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). Hold fast to the truth, and the Lord will guard you from deception until the day He returns (2 Thessalonians 3:3). |
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