False Teachers

Dear Victorious,

I know you've blogged about false teachers. How can believers really identify them?

Andrew D. - Lubbock, TX

Dear Andrew,

The first way that believers identify false prophets or false teachers is through the leading and discernment of the Holy Spirit. If you don't have the Holy Spirit operating in you - you are very likely to be sucked into the deception of false teaching.

That said, there are some common characteristics that often give false teachers away.

1. They teach what is contrary to Scripture. In other words, their teaching doesn't line up with the Bible's truths.

2. They promote trivial and sometimes controversial concepts - instead of leading people directly to Christ.

3. They aren't concerned about evidence of Christ's presence and lordship in their own personal lives.

4. Their motivation is to make a name for themselves. They are more concerned with being known than being effective.

If you encounter a lay or professional Christian leader who exhibits these traits, you should get on your knees and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Only with His leading can you know for sure.