Topical Bible: The Locust of False Teachers of the Apostasy

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In the biblical narrative, locusts are often depicted as agents of destruction and judgment, symbolizing devastation and divine retribution. This imagery is vividly employed in the prophetic and apocalyptic literature of the Bible. In a metaphorical sense, the "locust of false teachers" represents those who infiltrate the Christian community, spreading erroneous doctrines and leading believers astray, particularly during times of apostasy.

Biblical Imagery of Locusts

The Bible frequently uses locusts to symbolize overwhelming destruction. In the Old Testament, the prophet Joel describes a locust plague as a harbinger of the "Day of the LORD," a time of divine judgment: "What the devouring locust has left, the swarming locust has eaten; what the swarming locust has left, the young locust has eaten; and what the young locust has left, the destroying locust has eaten" (Joel 1:4). This imagery underscores the totality of the devastation wrought by these creatures.

False Teachers as Locusts

In the New Testament, the threat of false teachers is a recurring theme, particularly in the context of apostasy, where individuals or groups abandon or distort the core tenets of the Christian faith. The Apostle Paul warns the Ephesian elders of this danger: "I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number, men will rise up and distort the truth to draw away disciples after them" (Acts 20:29-30). Here, the "savage wolves" can be likened to locusts, consuming and destroying the spiritual vitality of the church.

Characteristics of False Teachers

False teachers, much like locusts, are characterized by their pervasive and destructive influence. They often present themselves as genuine believers, yet their teachings deviate from the truth of the Gospel. The Apostle Peter describes them as "springs without water and mists driven by a storm" (2 Peter 2:17), indicating their deceptive nature and the emptiness of their promises. Jude also warns of these individuals, stating, "These are the men who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit" (Jude 1:19).

Impact on the Church

The impact of false teachers on the church can be likened to a locust plague, as they lead believers into confusion, division, and spiritual barrenness. The Apostle John exhorts believers to "test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world" (1 John 4:1). This call to discernment is crucial in safeguarding the church from the insidious influence of false teachings.

The Apostasy

The concept of apostasy, a falling away from the faith, is closely linked to the rise of false teachers. The Apostle Paul speaks of a future apostasy, warning that "the Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons" (1 Timothy 4:1). This apostasy is marked by a departure from sound doctrine, often facilitated by the locust-like spread of false teachings.

Defense Against False Teachers

Scripture provides believers with the means to defend against the locust of false teachers. The Apostle Paul urges Timothy to "preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction" (2 Timothy 4:2). By adhering to sound doctrine and remaining vigilant, the church can withstand the destructive influence of false teachings.

In summary, the metaphor of locusts aptly describes the pervasive and destructive nature of false teachers during times of apostasy. Through vigilance, discernment, and adherence to the truth of Scripture, believers are equipped to resist their influence and maintain the integrity of the faith.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Revelation 9:3
And there came out of the smoke locusts on the earth: and to them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Prophet Joel.
... But this argument rests upon a false supposition; a ... which they had occupied against
the teachers of God's ... according to him, the migratory locust, which visits ...
/.../hengstenberg/christology of the old testament/the prophet joel.htm

The Second vision "On Earth"
... Is it any wonder that teachers and students are alike confused and ... do not tell us,
but the "smoke" was his false teaching. ... Arbah in Hebrew means a locust. ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the second vision on earth.htm