We are told to look at teachings being shared in the church and to watch out for anything contrary to God’s Word, including those who misinterpret or take scripture out of context to build themselves up. We are to have nothing to do with them, but expose them.
Lately, I have been seriously considering what that should look like as I know of people (even relatives) who I have nothing to do with because of their dangerously unbiblical way of living, using scripture and acting. Yet we are told to expose them.
Philippians 1:28 says to not be intimidated in any way by your enemies and to live as citizens of heaven, fighting for the faith.
They will argue I am to “judge not lest you be judged”, but that is also taking scripture out of its context. This verse on judging in Matt 7:1 is Jesus speaking to the Pharisees about being hypocritical. They were holding others to a standard that they themselves did not uphold.
The verse below in Romans 16 clearly shows us there are times it is appropriate to inspect if someone is right or wrong...to judge someone else’s teaching.
There are also clues in Titus against repeating our conclusions against someone’s divisive behavior. We are told to warn them, and warn them again. Then be done with them and walk away.
We are to let everything we say and do represent Jesus. Jesus spoke with truth and grace. He spoke out of love, and in him we have the authority to correct believers when necessary. our words must be gently, showing humility to everyone.
So knowing when to approach and how to approach requires wisdom, which God gives to those who ask. He understands our weaknesses; and is our gracious God.
“I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people.”
Romans 16:17-18 NIV
