(The following is the November 16 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read 2 Peter 2 and pay close attention to verses 1-22.)

False teachers masquerading as Christians are as harmful as other ungodliness in our churches and communities, leading people away from Christ. Christians must be aware of false teachers, recognize them, and be willing to refute their unbiblical teaching.

Peter’s words are stern because eternal life is at stake. He warns that false teachers bring destructive heresies, even denying Christ (v. 1). They exploit people because of their greed, making up stories to help them succeed in their exploitation (vv. 3,14). They constantly seek new ways to indulge their sin and seduce unstable people (v. 14). They use boastful, empty words (v. 18). Verse 19 is critical to Peter’s point: “They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption, since people are enslaved to whatever defeats them.” Before coming to Christ, believers are slaves to sin. In Christ, we’re free from that bondage. The only enslavement we should now have is by choice to our Lord Jesus Christ. Following false teachers only enslaves us again to others who are enslaved themselves.

False teachers still deceive believers. Wealthy pitchmen (and women) tout a false prosperity gospel. Others claim the power to heal (if you have enough faith and give them enough money). Some are less flashy, quietly undermining truth with unbiblical doctrines. For each type, “the gloom of darkness has been reserved for them” (v. 17).

How can we recognize false teachers? By knowing Scripture so well that any hint of falsehood jumps out and sounds alarms within us. Study God’s Word diligently to recognize counterfeits immediately.

Next Step:
When have you encountered false teaching? How did you know it was untrue? Are you aware of any unbiblical teachings impacting your church, family, or loved ones? What Bible passages and other resources can you use to point them to the truth?