How can we discern those who "claim to know God" but deny Him? Titus 1:16 — The Litmus Test Verse “They profess to know God, but they deny Him by their actions. They are detestable, disobedient, and unfit for any good deed.” A Closer Look at the Words - “Profess” – a verbal claim that costs nothing. - “Deny” – an ongoing lifestyle of contradiction. - “Detestable” – morally repugnant before God. - “Disobedient” – habitually refusing His commands. - “Unfit for any good deed” – useless for true kingdom work. Five Clear Marks of False Professors 1. Contradictory fruit (Matthew 7:16-18). 2. Persistent disobedience (1 John 2:3-4). 3. Corrupt doctrine (2 Peter 2:1). 4. Absence of love for believers (1 John 3:14). 5. Empty words without works (James 2:17). Cross-References That Sharpen Discernment - 2 Timothy 3:1-5 — “having a form of godliness but denying its power.” - Jude 4 — perverting grace into license. - John 15:6 — fruitless branches cast away. - Galatians 6:7-8 — God is not mocked; sowing to flesh reaps corruption. Practical Steps for Everyday Discernment • Compare stated faith with long-term fruit (Matthew 7:20). • Measure teaching against the whole Word (Acts 17:11). • Look for humble obedience to Christ’s commands. • Observe attitudes toward sin: excuses reveal denial; repentance confirms life. • Watch motives—fame, money, power vs. service (1 Peter 5:2-3). • Test spirits doctrinally (1 John 4:1-3). • Stay in accountable fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25). A Loving but Firm Response - Refuse partnership with darkness while shining light (Ephesians 5:11). - Correct with Scripture and gentleness (2 Timothy 2:25). - Guard the flock from destructive voices (Acts 20:28-30). - Keep personal conduct above reproach (Titus 2:7-8). Invitation to Self-Examination “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves.” (2 Corinthians 13:5) Before discerning others, ensure our own profession and practice align, trusting the Spirit and the sufficient, literal Word to produce genuine godliness. |
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