PODCAST
False Prophets vs. Saints
November 1st, 2015
2 Peter 2:1-22
The strong words of warning in 2 Peter, Chapter 2 are not unique in the Scriptures. The Psalms, Proverbs, even Jesus himself, share similar warnings: Beware of those who would lead you astray. It can seem a daunting task: How do we know?
Consider what Peter says. These people do things secretly. They demonstrate depraved conduct and greed. To discern false prophets, the Word of God and the tradition of the Church can guide us. Christ himself is the Word of God and our example. If something or someone seems to be pulling us off course, we can use Christ’s example and teaching as the very picture of what Christianity should look like.
Most of all, trust in God serves as our hope. Peter’s intention is not to instill fear, but to warn! Fear, as the opposite of love, would only further the cause of false leaders. False leaders bank on fear. Christ, however, leans on love. Love, trust, and hope are sure ways to avoid false teaching.
Author: Jeremy Scott
