Among The People

Among The People by Kirk Hunt

But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed.

2 Peter 2:1-2 NKJV

Apostle Peter warned the early Church. False prophets and false teachers would inflict harm and destruction from within the Church. Peter’s words were true then. Peter’s words are true now. False teachers and false prophets are now among the people of God, wounding the modern Church.

False teachers and false prophets can be detected. Is someone preaching or teaching something in conflict with the Bible? Is there more confusion or strife within the Christian community after they preach or teach? Do they live a life of immorality or licentiousness? Any single “yes” should trigger a careful and open evaluation of their lives and ministries.

A true teacher or true prophet is eager to prove their ministry through Scripture. Godly men and women will always submit themselves to Church authority. Godly men and women live their lives trying to become better disciples and followers of Jesus Christ.

True teachers and true prophets may be imperfect, but they seek God in all sincerity and truth. Whoever is among you, test them with Scripture and Godly examination. The authentic do not mind.

Think: False teaching and preaching cannot hold up in the light of the Bible.

Pray: “Lord, help me to test all prophecy and teaching with Your Word.”

Copyright © February 2021, Kirk Hunt

This devotional is brought to you courtesy of CadreMen Press. You can purchase a copy of Blessed and Blessing: Devotionals For Gospel Champions from your favorite bookseller or directly from CadreMen Press.

Some Folks Cheat

Some Folks Cheat By Kirk Hunt

 

Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.

Colossians 2: 8 NKJV

 

No matter who the preacher or teacher is, I check their work and words in my Bible. I assume other Christians do not cheat or misinterpret Scripture, but even true saints make mistakes. That also presumes that I am listening to a true disciple of Christ in the first place.

 

There are lots of ways and reasons for the mistakes (innocent) saints can make. There are lots of ways and reasons that some (guilty) folks cheat. Either way, I have to do my part not to be deceived.

 

I receive God’s truth with joy and gladness. Of course, it hurts when His truth is a corrective Word for my life. Still, I am glad that God speaks to me.

 

God is not the only one trying to get a message through to me (or you). There are a variety of false prophets, errant teachers, and blatant crooks out there. They peddle spiritual snake oil to the unwary. The less actual Scripture is involved, the more likely you are dealing with a cheater.

 

Follow along in your own Bible. Unique insights hold up under scrutiny. Spiritual truth is always supported by Scripture.

 

True prophets and sincere teachers always support their work and words with Scripture. God’s people, especially teachers and preachers, always accept the Bible as their source and standard. Cheaters always reject correction or accountability.

 

Think: It may sound good, but is it consistent with Scripture?

 

Pray: “Lord, help me to see and resist those who would cheat me out of You.”

 

 

Copyright © August 2016, Kirk Hunt

 

This devotional is brought to you courtesy of CadreMen Press. You can purchase a copy of Blessed and Blessing: Devotionals For Gospel Champions from your favorite bookseller or directly from CadreMen Press.