3 Requirements for Discernment

The Bible tells us to expect false teachers in the Church. If we aren’t aware of any, we’ve probably lost our discernment or we’ve never developed it.

The only thing that can protect us from false teaching is an accurate understanding of Scripture. Satan uses Scripture to deceive Christians, and he twists it to suit his purposes (Matthew 4:1-7). 

We must:

1. Study Scripture regularly (2 Timothy 2:15).

We must study the “whole counsel of Scripture” because most false teachers cut and paste Scripture, using it out of context and ignoring passages that refute their claims. See Acts 20:27.

2. Have undivided hearts (Psalm 86:11). 

False teachings typically appeal to our selfish human desires. They may be disguised in spiritual language, but they focus on worldly comforts or encourage acceptance of popular forms of immorality.

3. Accept correction (Proverbs 15:31).

Everyone who stays committed to false teaching does so because they refuse the correction of God’s Word and the warnings of those who teach Scripture accurately. They develop Concrete Minds.
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See the highlighted words in the text for additional insights and also check out the following 1-minute devotions.
About accurately understanding Scripture:
Context Adds Clarity
Reading Only Part of the Story
Pieces Parts
About false teachers:
4 Signs of a False Teaching
Don't Be Deceived 
About the beauty of accepting criticism:
10 Scriptures
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