How many cults and false teachers are there in the world or even in churches today? Peter says that is nothing new. There were false prophets in the Old Testament days. On some occasions they even outnumbered the true prophets. There were false prophets in the early church. We have many today who continually lead people astray often through the power of their dominating personality. How can we detect false teachers? Peter gives us several important clues. In verse 1 he says that they will follow the same method Satan used in the Garden of Eden. They may not openly deny the Word of God but will they cast doubts on it. Or they will say, "It doesn't really mean what you think it means." They will then suggest other interpretations - theirs. They will usually advocate open immorality. As we have seen it in recent years, the name of Christ is dragged consequently down and loses its rightful respect. Thirdly they will emphasize money. Peter calls this "greed" (v.3). They exploit their followers. They have a life-style far above most of their disciples. Some today are fabulously rich but never account for the money they handle. There are other indications, but Peter says, "God will deal with them. He did in Old Testament times. He will do it again now." Peter also reminds us how God can deliver His children even when judgment is falling. Peter mentions Noah and Lot, two remarkable examples of God's power to save. Note the second part of verse 9. It speaks of certain judgment but the first part is so clear: "The Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials." Isn't that encouraging? As certain as judgment may be, God's care for His own is just as certain. Hold on to that truth, now and always. |
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