6 Ways to Recognize False Teachers
False teachers aren’t going to tell us their teaching heresy. False teachers usually look and sound so sincere and passionate that we wouldn’t know they actually twisting God’s Word. The size of the crowds around them won’t tell us much either since many people have been and continue to be led astray by teaching that pleases their ears. So here are 6 ways to recognize a false teacher.
1. Different Source
Godly teachers will teach from the Bible always. Verse by Verse. They may use other sources of information to help explain what Scripture reveals, but the foundation of their message is always built upon “Thus says the Lord….” If you start hearing more from other sources than God’s Word or you just hear one verse then the teacher’s ideas then, you may need to hit the door.
2. Different Message
The entire message of a godly teacher will always revolve around the gospel of Jesus Christ. False teachers may mention Jesus here and there, but they will ultimately deny His deity and power (2 Peter 2:1). Of course, they won’t do so openly at first, and you’ll need to listen carefully to see if Jesus is at the core.
3. Different Position
Goldy teachers will point to our sin and our need for salvation—and their lives will back that up. False teachers will promise freedom, but they themselves will be “slaves to depravity” (2 Peter 2:19). If a teacher’s lifestyle points to lust, greed, envy, or other enslaving passions, they are certainly not fit to teach.
4. Different Character
Those who are truly following Jesus will run after the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23). They will never be perfect, but they will be working with all the strength God gives to become more and more like Christ. False teachers, on the other hand, live a life that screams “arrogance.” And that leads to destruction (Proverbs 16:18).
5. Different Appeal
What does the teacher point to as the reason for their teaching? Are they pointing to Scripture as the reason for their urgency in sharing the gospel? Are they wanting you to believe what God says about how we are to escape the wrath to come (Romans 5:9)? If so, good. False teachers will make their appeal based on earthly passions, leading people back into sin (2 Peter 2:18). They’ll urge you to focus on the things of this world. They want you to have the best life now.
6. Different Fruit
Always check the results in the lives of those who are listening to a teacher. Those listening to goldy teachers will grow in their knowledge of Jesus (2 Peter 3:18). Those sitting under a false teacher will be just like the world. They may talk a good talk, but they don’t produce anything of eternal value.
This list should make us all stand up and take notice of why this all matters. It’s a really big deal. False teachers lead people to a “swift destruction” (2 Peter 2:1). Jesus will tell them that He never knew them (Matthew 7:21–23). Those who listen to godly teachers of the gospel will receive abundant life now and forever (Romans 5:17).
