Through the Bible: 2 PeterSample

Beware of False Prophets

But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves.

2 Peter 2:1 (NIV)

One of the purposes Peter wrote this letter was to urgently warn believers about the serious threat of false prophets and their destructive influence within the churches. The content in this chapter is very similar to the letter of Jude. In Matthew 24:11, Jesus warned His disciples that many false prophets will arise and lead many astray as the last days draw to a close. It’s a wakeup call to watch out for false prophets that come in sheep’s clothing but are ravenous wolves inwardly.

Protection against being deceived is found only through an enduring faith and love for Christ along with in an unwavering commitment to the absolute authority of His Word. It is critically important that we know and are firmly grounded in God’s Word so that we can exercise discernment and not be led astray by false teachings. Like the Bereans in Acts 17:11, we are to examine the Scriptures daily to see if what we are being taught is true. Christ also said that we will recognize false prophets by their fruit, or how they live (Matt 7:16). Scripture teaches us to test the spirits to see whether they are from God (1 John 4:1).

Prayer

Father God, thank You for the Holy Spirit who guides us into all truth. May we diligently feed on Your Word and cling to Your truths so that we are able to discern false teachings and not be led astray. We also ask for wisdom to live carefully in these last days. In Jesus’ name we ask, Amen.