How can we discern modern "Balaams" within the church today? Setting the Scene “ But he received a rebuke for his transgression from a dumb donkey speaking with a human voice and restraining the prophet’s madness.” (2 Peter 2:16) Peter draws on the literal, historical account of Balaam (Numbers 22–24) to warn believers about teachers who talk like prophets yet are driven by greed and compromise. What Made Balaam Dangerous? • He loved “the wages of wickedness” (2 Peter 2:15). • He possessed genuine spiritual gifting (Numbers 24:2 ff.) yet used it for profit. • He spoke blessings with his mouth while scheming curses in his heart (Numbers 31:16; Revelation 2:14). • He ignored God’s clear warnings—even a talking donkey—to pursue his own agenda. Spotting Balaam’s Traits Today 1. Money-driven ministry • Endless fundraising, lavish lifestyles, fees for prophetic words. 2. Compromise with sin for acceptance or influence • Downplaying biblical morality to keep crowds or cultural approval (Jude 1:11). 3. Flattering, grandiose speech that lacks repentance calls • “Great swelling words of vanity” (2 Peter 2:18). 4. Borrowed authority without submission to Scripture • Personal “revelations” override the plain text (Galatians 1:8). 5. Fruit that contradicts the gospel • Sexual immorality, divisiveness, or control (Matthew 7:15-20). Practical Discernment Steps • Compare every teaching with the whole counsel of God (Acts 17:11). • Check the teacher’s life for humility and integrity (1 Timothy 3:1-7). • Note attitudes toward money—transparent stewardship or secret dealings? • Watch for willingness to be corrected by Scripture and accountable peers (Proverbs 27:6). • Assess whether the message exalts Christ or the messenger (Colossians 1:28). • Listen for the call to holiness instead of mere hype (1 Peter 1:15-16). Encouraging One Another in Truth • Stay rooted in daily Bible intake so counterfeits are obvious (Psalm 119:105). • Cultivate congregations where questioning and testing are welcomed (1 Thessalonians 5:21). • Honor faithful shepherds who serve without price tags (1 Peter 5:2-3). • Pray for discernment and boldness to confront error in love (Ephesians 4:15). By holding fast to the unchanging Word, we can discern and resist modern Balaams, protecting Christ’s flock and keeping the gospel pure. |
    |