How to Recognize a False Teacher

How to Recognize a False Teacher

1. A false teacher preaches that the way is not narrow. It is broad. He might preach of God and Christ. He might preach of sin. But he does not preach that Christ is the only way.

2. A false teacher does not claim that he is a false teacher. He is a wolf but in sheep's clothing. He claims to speak for God, to proclaim truth. He affirms some truth, but changes the meaning of important words. He is like Satan, disguising as an angel of light. He is subtle. He will not necessarily tell you something that is wrong, but he will not tell you the complete truth.

3. A false teacher has no genuine concern for his sheep.

4. A false teacher's lifestyle is recognized by his fruits.

Five Questions to Ask Regarding a False Teacher

1. When does he talk about the holiness and wrath of God? Romans 1:18

2. When does he talk about eternal judgment and the wrath of God? A teacher teaches the whole counsel of God. Not just the positive things.

3. When does he talk about sin and repentance? Luke 24:47

4. When does he talk about forgiveness of sin through Christ alone?

5. When does he talk about the substitutionary atonement of Christ?