Signs of False Teacher

 2 Corinthians 12-15

 I’ve made it my policy to shy away from businesses that make a big deal of being Christian ran or owned, not because I do not want to do business with Christians but I’ve lived long enough and have observed that many who do so are con men.  It seems the men Paul is referring to as false apostles were disguising themselves as an apostle of Christ and proclaiming they did ministry in the same manner as Paul.  One might believe they came seeking pay for the services they rendered, and yet Paul did not allow the Churches of Corinth to contribute to his needs, but he did allow other churches to minister to him.

Paul is clear they are deceitful; they have at the center a desire to tear down the church and to build a group of followers, not of Christ but self.  Be on guard when you see parking in a prime location for the senior pastor with his name on it.  Be on guard when the pastor’s name is almost bigger than the name of the building where people gather and call it a church.  Be on guard when it is referred to as so & so church it may be, but watch out my brothers and sisters for many pastors are hirelings.  They fear to tell you that your actions are sinful, that is what false teachers do they tickle your ears with what sounds good to the flesh.

Paul goes on to share with us that we should not be surprised by this because Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.  So why are we surprised when those who serve him disguise themselves as servants of righteousness.  It is my belief that many of these men will be the ones that say; I have done many things in your name, I’ve preached, and helped the poor, I’ve even healed the sick.  I have a right to your heaven, and Jesus will say, I’ve never known you, depart from Me you workers of iniquity.  We are told, “Their end will correspond to their deeds.”

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice