In some circles of modern theology, the topic of false teachers is avoided. Yet, the general epistles of Peter, John, and Jude can’t seem to leave the topic alone. This was a present danger in the first century and the danger has not left. 

We should be clear about a few things: (1) This is not describing a man who is being encouraged and is allowed to give a talk before the congregation, only to say something erroneously (cf. Apollos, Ac. 18:24-26). (2) This is not always about motive, although motive does oftentimes factor into the discussion. 

False teachers are identifiable by two factors: (1) By what they teach; and (2) by how they live. Because of the damage that can be done, all listeners must stand constantly on guard (cf. Jesus’ teaching, Mt. 7:15-20). 

Peter clearly says, “They are out there, be on guard…” 

¹ But false prophets also appeared among the people, just as there will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon themselves. ² Many will follow their indecent behavior, and because of them the way of the truth will be maligned; ³ and in their greed they will exploit you with false words; their judgment from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep. (II Pt. 2:1-3)

John says, “You better test everything against the Word…” 

¹ Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. ² By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God; ³ and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God; this is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming, and now it is already in the world. (I Jn. 4:1-3) 

Jude says, “The truth has been revealed and you better fight to keep it…” 

³ Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all time handed down to the saints. ⁴ For certain people have crept in unnoticed, those who were long beforehand marked out for this condemnation, ungodly persons who turn the grace of our God into indecent behavior and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.

Application: Always be on guard. You do not get the luxury of relaxing when someone is “teaching you” from the Bible.