How To Identify False Teachers

False teachers were present in the first century church and are ever present in the 21st century church. Many Christians are not even aware they are following a false teachers unless someone points out to them that their favorite Bible teacher is one of them. Paul wrote, "Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons" (1 Timothy 4:1).

How do we identify a false teacher? Denny Burk wrote:

The apostle Paul wrote to Titus that pastors must not only preach faithfully but also “refute those who contradict” (Titus 1:9). The idea is very simple. Pastoral ministry is not merely a building up, but also a tearing down. As Paul would say elsewhere, it involves tearing down every speculation and lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God (2 Corinthians 10:5). To fail to do this is ministerial malpractice and harmful to God’s people.

Given this obligation, it becomes all the more imperative to be able to identify false teachers when they emerge. Sometimes false teaching originates from outside of the church. Sometimes such teaching originates from within. The New Testament teaches that a more rigorous response is required when it arises within. Thus faithful pastors must learn how to identify and deal with false teachers...The Bible suggests at least six characteristics that commonly identify false teachers. Not every false teachers exhibits all of these characteristics at once, but often times they present some combination of these traits.

1. False teachers contradict sound doctrine.

2. False teachers promote immoral living.

3. False teachers deemphasize sin and judgment.

4. False teachers are motivated by greed or selfish gain.

5. False teachers cause division.

6. False teachers resemble the flock.

Read the entire post here.