What to do with false teaching

Ephesians 6:14a--Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth...

     Last week we discussed the need to be on guard for false teaching, understanding that deception can happen quickly for those that are unknowledgeable.  This week, I would like to address what one is to do when they are a part of a church that teaches false doctrine.

     Know the truth.  John 8:32 says, "You shall know the truth, and the truth will make you free."  Before addressing anything you believe is false, be sure you know the truth first.  It is essential that we continually be checking every thought and attitude against Scripture to protect us from error.  When preparing to address another believer about a controversial matter, you must be equipped/girded with the truth.

     Reason with them.  Acts 19:8-9 says, "And he went into the synagogue and spoke boldly for three months, reasoning and persuading concerning the things of the kingdom of God.  But when some were hardened and did not believe, but spoke evil of the Way before the multitude, he departed from them and withdrew the disciples, reasoning daily in the school of Tyrannus."  Here we see Paul taking Scripture and reasoning with those in opposition to the Way, attempting to persuade them.  After three months(implies fervency and patience), Paul noticed that where he desired to see tenderness to the Truth, he found resistance, pushing him to take the final step...departing.

     Depart.  Acts 17:33 says, "So Paul departed from among them."  This was his practice.  He would go into places, preach the truth and let the chips fall where they may.  With those who had ears to hear, they followed him.  For those that did not, they got left in the dark.  While, this is never the aim, nor a pleasing conclusion, it is one that must be taken.  If, you have prepped yourself with God's Word and reasoned with love and Truth and no change has occurred, it is best that you leave, searching out others that may be willing to listen.  Who knows, there may be more that follow your lead.

     To close, I truly believe there are those who diligently desire to know the Truth and desire to seek it out.  I also believe there are those that practice something externally(tradition) but have not really understood the internal significance and any attempt to shake that practice is often viewed as an attack.  Our duty is to stand for Truth and always to express it in love.  May you never come across false teaching, but if you do, may you be equipped with the truth.  Let all things be done by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving.  Phil. 4:6