But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon themselves. Many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of the truth will be maligned; and in their greed they will exploit you with false words; their judgment from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep. 2 Peter 2:1-3
To be a pastor/teacher in the church comes with a certain amount of appreciation, love, and affection from people. That’s nice. Of course, there is also criticism that rightfully goes with the territory. I tend to receive all the good stuff that goes with it. And, it really is a privilege to be called into this service for God and to fulfill my ministry. To serve on the staff of a church for a season is an added pleasure. It is good and right to aspire to become a teacher of God’s Word.
However, Peter warns here, as the apostle James did in his letter “Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment”. Peter says that we should expect false prophets and teachers outside of the church. And boy, there are many misleading voices. But, he also warns that they will be inside the church. This is why its important for every person to find a Bible teaching church and to develop a personal Bible reading plan they engage in daily. Why? So we are not exploited, misled, or destroyed. Who wants that? I don’t. So, I praise God that He has led me to great churches with solid Bible teaching pastors. May God reward them for their service in the kingdom!
When I teach the Bible, am I careful to present the truth of God in a manner that is uncompromising or self-serving? Do I possess the proper attitude of humility as I fulfill the role God has entrusted to me?
God, as this day begins- I pray that You help me always rightly divide the Word of Truth and present the gospel in a manner that is pleasing to You (and not necessarily to men). Help me avoid any false teaching, but only proclaim what is clearly taught by my Savior and Lord and affirmed by the prophets and apostles. Thank you that Thy Word is Truth.
