Watching Out for False Teachers

Watching Out for False Teachers by Jim and Elizabeth George

One of my favorite descriptions and pictures of the Proverbs 31 woman is that of her watching over her family and home: “She watches over the ways of her household” (Proverbs 31:27). As wives, mothers, and homemakers, we wear many hats as we discharge our duties at home. And there’s no doubt that one of our most important duties is that of a “watchwoman.”

Just as the walls of the ancient cities were dotted with watchmen who guarded the towns 24 hours a day against hostile action, we too faithfully and carefully guard our children from harmful influences and sound a warning to our husbands when we feel the family is threatened.

Watching Out for False Teachers

Paul watched too. He checked on and encouraged the people who attended the churches under his charge. In fact, when Paul listed his sufferings for the cause of Christ, he ended his list by stating that “besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches” (2 Corinthians 11:28). He worried about false teachers promoting ungodliness.

As we pray against the ungodly influences that could cast darkness over our families, our children, and our hearts, what can we watch for? Look for three bright stars produced by sound, biblical teaching in 1 Timothy 1:6-7, "Some, having strayed, have turned aside to idle talk, desiring to be teachers of the law, understanding neither what they say nor the things which they affirm":

  • Godly edification—Sound teaching furthers the plans of God (1 Timothy 1:4).
  • Good fruit—Sound teaching comes from the heart of a sincere teacher (1 Timothy 1:5).
  • Glorious gospel—Sound teaching showcases the glory of God (1 Timothy 1:11).

Growing in Discernment

Do you want to learn and grow so you can understand the doctrines of the Christian faith better? So you can teach them to your children and help others? You can start by studying the Bible, attending Bible-study classes, and memorizing Scripture.

The more you know, the more effective your protection of your loved ones will be. How can you not be fooled by false teaching? Answer: By being familiar with the truth! Put W-A-T-C-H to work in your life today:

Want to be with God’s people

Ask God for discernment

Take in God’s Word

Carefully select a Bible-teaching church

Heed the warnings of Scripture

Keep watch over your spiritual well-being so you can help your family and friends distinguish light from dark.

RESPOND:

Dear Lord, give me a heart of discernment so I can watch for those who teach Your light and avoid those who don’t. Amen.

RENEWING RESOURCES:

A Woman’s Guide to Making Right Choices” by Elizabeth George was written for women who are seeking guidance on how to handle life's many responsibilities in a Christian way.

REFLECT:

Am I watching out for the spiritual well-being of my family? Pray for wisdom as you seek to guard your loved ones.

REMEMBER:

Schedule time in each day to study God’s Word and make a plan to memorize Scripture. It is the sword of the Spirit!


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Jim and Elizabeth George

Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:

  • Simplify life by focusing on God’s priorities.
  • Appreciate God’s Word and apply it to everyday situations.
  • Respond to circumstances with confidence by seeing yourself through God’s loving eyes.
  • Increase closeness in marriage by serving and honoring each other.
  • Powerfully shape the hearts of children and teenagers.
  • Enjoy greater intimacy with God.

Learn more about Jim and Elizabeth George here.

Jim and Elizabeth George

Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:

  • Simplify life by focusing on God’s priorities.
  • Appreciate God’s Word and apply it to everyday situations.
  • Respond to circumstances with confidence by seeing yourself through God’s loving eyes.
  • Increase closeness in marriage by serving and honoring each other.
  • Powerfully shape the hearts of children and teenagers.
  • Enjoy greater intimacy with God.

Learn more about Jim and Elizabeth George here.


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