From False Motives or True

In 4 Characteristics of Genuine Christian Teachers, I addressed Paul's statement in Philippians 1:16-17. Following his warnings about those who were preaching Christ out of selfish ambition, Paul adds:

“But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.” (verse 18)

We know Paul would never have said this if those who were preaching for selfish gain were preaching bad doctrine. His letters are filled with warnings against false teachings.

Typically, false motives and bad doctrine go together, but the people Paul was addressing in Philippians apparently were teaching the word, but not living it. 

This happens today as well. For example Ravi Zacharias and Philip Yancy taught helpful biblical truths while involved in sexually immoral relationships. 

And a desire for wealth is a common temptation for well-known teachers (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:7; 1 Peter 5).

John MacArthur, a well-respected Bible teacher often condemned the selfish gain of false teachers like Joel Osteen, yet he had questionable practices himself. (Source)

Does this mean that nothing these men taught was helpful? No. Despite their personal sins, they did preach some sound Bible truths: “whether from false motives or true, Christ [was] preached.”

When their ungodly choices are revealed, I think it's wise to find other teachers and authors since their sins could be mildly reflected in some of their teachings. But we need not forget the accurate Bible truths they taught. 

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See Why Philip Yancey's Book is Backward on My Bookshelf and The Popular Teachings of Joel Osteen: Beware.