How to Discern False Teaching in the Church
How to Discern False Teaching in the Church
False teaching has always threatened the purity of the church. From the early church to today, Satan distorts truth through subtle error. As Christians—especially those shaped by Reformed theology—we are called to be vigilant, yet gracious, discerning truth from error using the Word of God.
1. Know the Truth Deeply
The best defense against false teaching is a clear, consistent understanding of biblical doctrine. Immerse yourself in Scripture daily. Ground your theology in the historic creeds, confessions, and especially the gospel of Jesus Christ.
2. Test All Teaching by the Word
Acts 17:11 commends the Bereans for examining the Scriptures daily to verify Paul’s preaching. We are to do the same—test every sermon, blog, or book by the Word. If it contradicts or distorts clear Scripture, reject it.
3. Be Aware of Common Red Flags
- Man-centered messages over Christ-centered preaching
- Promises of health, wealth, or guaranteed success
- Denial of essential doctrines (Trinity, deity of Christ, justification by faith alone)
- Secretive or authoritarian leadership
4. Practice Discernment with Grace
Being discerning does not mean being divisive. False teachers must be confronted, but fellow believers who err need patient correction. Speak the truth in love (Eph. 4:15), remembering that we all need grace.
5. Cling to the Gospel
The gospel is our anchor. Any teaching that adds to or subtracts from Christ’s finished work is to be rejected. Return often to the cross and resurrection, where truth and grace meet perfectly.
Reformed Quote
"Discernment is not knowing the difference between right and wrong. It is knowing the difference between right and almost right."
— Charles Spurgeon
Verse Reflection
1 John 4:1 (KJV):
“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”
John’s warning is still needed today. Biblical discernment is not optional—it’s essential. Test the spirits, cling to the truth, and walk humbly with your God.
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