In a world with so many ideologies surrounding us both in society and even our churches; how, does one recognize and combat against false doctrine? The mission of the church is to bring sinners to Christ. As such, we want to allow in all others; yet, in doing so we must not compromise the truth of the gospel by embracing false doctrine in the name of “inclusivity.” The Galatian church had allowed in leaders who tried to teach that circumcision was a requirement of salvation. As such, these teachers demanded that the Christians submit themselves to the “letter of the law”; rather than the heart of the gospel. Christ came to fulfill the law and to pay the price; that, men and women might be saved by Grace through faith. The law only revealed mankind’s inability to live a life of righteousness before a Holy God.
What the law could not do; because, mankind’s heart was in bondage to sin and death; Christ came to provide the only means of Redemption. His completed work on the cross and His resurrection set all who would believe free from this bondage to the law. Instead of the outward circumcision required under the law; God would take the responsibility to “circumcise the heart.” Outward circumcision could not transform men’s hearts; but, the indwelling Holy Spirit could. The false doctrine that the Judaizers brought in may seem innocent; however, as Paul wrote: “A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump” (Galatians 5:9). Allowing in false doctrine (however innocent it might seem) ultimately transforms the truth of the gospel into a lie.
False Doctrine: Legalism
What was happening to the Galatian Church, they were allowing in legalism as part of the doctrine. This was false doctrine; because, it diminished the truth that Salvation was by Grace Alone through faith alone in the finished work of Jesus Christ. Paul goes further to say that those teaching this false doctrine will face harsh judgement. “I would that they even be cut off which trouble you” (Galatians 5:12). Or as Peter wrote: “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction” (2 Peter 2:9).
False Doctrine: Freedom is a license to sin
Although, all who have trusted Christ as their Savior are set free from the law; this is not a license to sin either. “For, brethren, ye have been called to liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another…This I say then, walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh” (Galatians 5:13, 16).
Christians are to live by the Spirit’s guidance. All who have accepted Christ as their Savior and Lord, have the indwelling help of the Holy Spirit. Because of the love wherewith Jesus Christ loved us, we are to yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit. Our love for Him would not allow us to be happy or content with a life filled with sin. No longer are we in bondage to sin; instead, we are freed that we might yield our bodies and minds to Him. He will guide our lives and step by step transform us into the image of Christ. Our part? Keep our eyes on Him. That means, I die to self that He might live. This cannot be performed through legalism; it can only happen through freedom to yield, which is what Christ purchased for us.
Whatever trials, sorrows, or pain that comes into my life; I can trust Him to prune me. I can look to Him and say, “Lord, show me what I am to learn of You through this. Reveal to me the blotches in my heart that you need to remove. Whatever it takes, transform me into the likeness of your Son.” Step by step, He will do just that; as we keep our eyes focused on Him.
CONCLUDING THOUGHTS
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).
Do not neglect your time alone with God in prayer and Bible study. False Doctrines are all around us and we can only know the truth, if we take the time to allow Him to teach us through His word.
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR?
If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. Because there is nothing more important than this, I urge you to seek Him today.
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Recently released Books Available
ABIDING, STEADFAST JOY
A labor of love, this book provides you with 3 foundations of truth from the scripture which once known will provide you with abiding, steadfast joy. Undaunted by the storms of life; your joy will overflow.
WHEN INJUSTICE AND VIOLENCE REIGN:
Through a study of Nahum, Habukkuk, and Zephaniah; I brought their message into our modern times. Answering the questions of “Why, God?”
Providing a foundation of faith and hope; even, as we see so much evil in the world and in our nation. With so much sorrow and despair, this book I wrote to guide you into discovering God’s Perfect Plan of love; amid this chaotic world filled with life’s storms.
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©Effie Darlene Barba, 2017
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Footnotes and CREDITS
Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash