It Starts Small

Teach and encourage these things. ³ If anyone teaches false doctrine and does not agree with the sound teaching of our Lord Jesus Christ and with the teaching that promotes godliness, ⁴ he is conceited and understands nothing, but has an unhealthy interest in disputes and arguments over words. From these come envy, quarreling, slander, evil suspicions, ⁵ and constant disagreement among people whose minds are depraved and deprived of the truth, who imagine that godliness is a way to material gain.

1 Timothy 6: 3-5

If anyone teaches false doctrine

The gospel that Paul fervently presented to the world, with all its profound teachings, resonates with undeniable clarity. There is but one God. There is but one way to reach Him, a singular path illuminated by His light. There is but one revealed word, and thus, there is one gospel that unites us all. Salvation is found in Him and Him alone—the source of everything we need for life and godliness. Let there be no mistake: God is not a universalist, nor does He entertain the notion of relative truth. There exists one truth, steadfast and unyielding, not many interpretations of it. True believers may disagree over minor or obscure details. However, the core, clear teachings of the gospel are a precious agreement shared by all!

Make no mistake! Satan is a cunning master of deceit, cloaking himself as an angel of light. His sinister purpose is to undermine and distort God’s magnificent designs. With relentless determination, he and his minions stealthily infiltrate the church, aiming to sow seeds of heresy and confusion!

We must remain unwaveringly vigilant! False teachers lurk at every corner, seeking to mislead. In this age, it has never been easier to spread a deceptive doctrine. With the power of television, radio, and the internet, our agendas can reach countless minds. They can influence vulnerable hearts with alarming ease. To sharpen our discernment, we must dive deeply into the unshakeable truth. We must passionately study and embrace the truth. It must become an intrinsic part of us. This allows us to instantly detect any distortions or perversions that dare to arise!

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Here, Paul passionately exposes the dangerous traits of the false teacher, a deceitful figure eager to mislead the flock. This individual is steeped in pride, radiating arrogance and unteachability, all while harboring a profound ignorance. He may fill the air with empty words. His speech lacks the illuminating touch of Christ. His eyes remain darkened and he is utterly clueless about the truths he so eagerly misrepresents.

A false teacher parades around. He claims to possess immense intelligence. He is desperate to project an air of wisdom that simply isn’t there. He speaks on topics far beyond his grasp. He boasts loudly. He acts as if that alone lends credence to his hollow claims. The little knowledge he holds serves only to inflate his ego. This encapsulates a pride that starkly resembles the mentality of numerous cult leaders. These individuals demand blind loyalty, forcing others to surrender their critical thinking at the altar of their charisma. If anyone dares to question their teachings, they become furious. They shout, “HOW DARE YOU DOUBT ME!” Rather than humbly turning to Scripture for enlightenment, they rely on their supposed credentials. They claim, “I have been to seminary,” or “I have been teaching for years.” They think they know more than others ever will.

We are implored to be quick to listen. We should be slow to speak. Yet these false teachers defy this wisdom. They are hastily expressive while dragging their feet in true listening. They revel in the sound of their own voices, eagerly sharing their opinions as if they hold all the answers. Rarely will you hear them utter the humble words “I don’t know” when faced with a challenging question. Why is that? Pride fuels their arrogance. They are ensnared by the illusion that they possess all the knowledge in the universe.

In addition, false teachers are plagued by numerous character flaws that demand our attention! They revel in meaningless arguments and senseless debates, thriving on foolishness that leads to division. When discord arises within the church, you can bet they are at the center. They spread their toxic influence. Instead of being champions of peace and unity, they incite strife, wield abrasive language, and stir up wicked suspicions. Simply put, the true nature of a false teacher can be discerned through their distorted teachings. It can also be seen in the lifestyle they lead.

Recommended reading: 2 Peter 2:12-22.

whose minds are depraved and deprived of the truth

False teachers like this are far from being “misled brethren.” In truth, they are not brethren at all. Paul vividly portrays them as possessing a “depraved” mind. Still shrouded in darkness, their minds remain untransformed by the Holy Spirit. They are ensnared, still slaves of sin. What they desperately need is the life-changing gift of salvation!

who imagine that godliness is a way to material gain

The prosperity gospel thrives primarily because deceitful teachers exploit this doctrine to legitimize their opulent lifestyles. These charlatans profit off the hard-earned money of everyday believers. They spread the damaging lie that God will richly reward those who contribute to their extravagant ministries.

¹⁰ For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and by craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

1 Timothy 6:10

A renowned South African pastor, the charismatic Shepherd Bushiri, boasts not just one or two, but an astonishing three private jets in his possession! This extravagance is further complemented by a dazzling collection of luxury cars. When a Facebook user dared to challenge his opulent lifestyle, he boldly retorted, “You are using a phone to post that. Should you give that up too?” His words echo a profound confidence, leaving many to ponder the essence of wealth and personal choice.

Brothers and sisters, this should not be. God does give nice things.

¹⁷ Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

James 1:17

In James 1:17, it proclaims that “every perfect gift is from above,” a profound truth that resonates deeply. Paul passionately asserted that those who labor for God should indeed earn their living through their sacred work. However, let us not confuse this noble calling with the pursuit of riches. It is not a life drenched in indulgent luxury funded by the very contributions of those they are meant to uplift and serve.

Paul fervently warns us about these deceitful teachers! They are relentlessly seeking personal wealth from the gospel. They fail to recognize that godliness itself is the greatest treasure of all. Truly, godliness is its own magnificent reward! While it brings countless blessings to those who earnestly pursue it, it is misguided to chase after God only for the sake of riches.

What attitude should we have?

⁶ But godliness with contentment is great gain.

1 Timothy 6:6

Immense joy comes from sharing the gospel. Guiding others through the teachings of the Bible is not measured by monetary gain. This joy is found in the profound privilege and blessing of serving our Lord, Jesus Christ.

When you embark on the journey to find a church, resist the urge to settle for the first one that crosses your path. Take a moment to deeply observe the lifestyle of the church leaders. If their way of life appears excessively elevated compared to those they shepherd, tread carefully. Seek a church where the Bible is not just read but passionately taught and lived out. Be vigilant and discerning toward the lives of the pastors, for they are the embodiment of the faith they promote.

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Cross-References

• 2 Peter 2:1
• 2 Corinthians 11:13-15
• 2 Timothy 4:3-4

Discussion Questions

• What kind of sound words might the false teacher disagree with?
• What is the false teachers’ attitude towards controversial questions?
• Where do these kinds of questions lead?
• What does the word “depraved” mean in verse 5?
• What does it signify about these false teachers’ spiritual condition?
• Are they simply believers who have some doctrine wrong?
• What key principle can we see they misunderstand in verse 5 and following?

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