Throughout church history there have been false teachers who would corrupt the church and the truth found in God’s Word. God’s Word is a true reference point by which one can confirm or reject the validity of spiritual teaching. Our salvation hangs in the balance when truth is attacked by false teaching. Saint Peter wrote a strong rebuke to false teachers in 2 Peter chapter 2. He identifies the presence of false teachers, the content of their teaching, and describes the judgment that will follow. But what exactly is this false teaching ? In essence, it is a lifestyle based on licentious living, following the fulfillment of fleshly desrires that are contrary to God’s will: “These people are springs without water and mists driven by a storm. Blackest darkness is reserved for them. For they mouth empty, boastful words and, by appealing to the lustful desires of the flesh, they entice people who are just escaping from those who live in error. They promise them freedom, while they themselves are slaves of depravity—for “people are slaves to whatever has mastered them.” (2 Peter 2:17-19) Why is this teaching false? Well, the desires of the flesh that work against growth and prosperity (meaning moving forward) are sinful. God created pleasure but it must be pursued in alignment with God’s will that ensures growth and a steady path to Heaven. It must be pleasure with an inner, divine purpose. Pleasure for pleasure’s sake, without meaning and direction is a path toward darkness, depravity and emptiness. What can we find in God’s Word that can lead us to the path of truth? What ideas can we hang onto that will aid us toward heaven? In Psalm 90: 5, we see the image of growth thst is a sign of right living: “They sleep, and in the morning they sprout again like an herb.” Progress is measured in a commitment to inner and outer growth. This is a sign we are walking with God. We are encouraed to do the work God asks us to do and we will see the fruits of our labors: “Show your deeds to your servants, your glory to their children. May the favor of the Lord our God be ours. Prosper the work of our hands!” (Psalm 90: 16-17) Prosperity & progress are fruits of our work, not just in economic but spiritual progress and a sense of protection from all harm. This is the meaning of salvation in Christ. Salvation means we are protected from harm, and live without fear & worry. This is best described in Psalm 91: 5-13: You shall not fear the terror of the night nor the arrow that flies by day, Nor the pestilence that roams in darkness, nor the plague that ravages at noon. Though a thousand fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, near you it shall not come. You need simply watch; the punishment of the wicked you will see. Because you have the Lord for your refuge and have made the Most High your stronghold, No evil shall befall you, no affliction come near your tent. For he commands his angels with regard to you, to guard you wherever you go. With their hands they shall support you, lest you strike your foot against a stone. You can tread upon the asp and the viper, trample the lion and the dragon.” Seek truth in Jesus Christ. Close the door to false teachers and live in security of God’s everlasting salvation.
