2 Peter 2:9-16 Study Peter issues a warning about false teachers. The early days of the church had already become a problem, people distorting the words of Jesus and the teachings of the apostles in order to manipulate and control people, and, squeeze them out of their money. When you look at the leaders of your church, you won't find perfection. Looking for leaders with a sincere desire to be like Jesus, who strive to lead by example, and who have the integrity to be transparent about their own struggle in the journey toward holiness. Practice discernment. Because we have a tendency to think that it's all about us. There are many blessings in knowing Jesus. God has called us to be a blessing to others. Jesus said, "If you want to be great, be a servant." It's better to give than receive. Some believers focus never goes beyond what they can get out of being a child of God. Everything they're believing God for is designed to make their life better: a new car, house, this, that. It's all about me; it's all about my needs. We must remember that there are those who see religion as a way to accumulate wealth, power and influence for themselves. We need to keep a discerning eye on pastors, teachers, evangelists and preachers. We need to measure them according to the standard of the Word of God, which means that we need to know the Word of God. Peter tells his readers what to expect, and his expectation for them is the same as it is for you: it is your responsibility to recognize false teachers. It is your responsibility to discern. Don't let yourself be seduced by deceptive teaching. Get rooted in God's Word, and let God's Word be the foundation of your life. |
