False Teachers: The Defense

It has been said that the best defense is a good offense and that definitely holds true when dealing with false teachers.  We need to be on the attack.  Jude lists all of the following as part of our battle plan:

1. Build yourselves up:  This means we need to be ready to go into battle.  The best way to recognize error is to know truth.  Banks prepare their tellers to recognize counterfeit money by studying real money.  If we expect to hold our own against false teachers we better know God’s Word.
2. Pray:  The real battle is spiritual.  We are going to need all the help we can get.
3. Stay connected:  The best way to stay in God’s love is to surround ourselves with believers.  There is strength in numbers.
4. Patience:  Sometimes the battle is very rough and it is easy to give up.  It can be very disheartening to see the devil win and souls lost.  But God will return one day and set everything straight.  We need to be patient and not give up.
5. Show mercy:  It is an easy thing to be led astray by false teachers.  Sometimes all it takes is a little guidance, and a lot of love to bring someone into the light.  Many people respond well by emphasizing the positive.
6. Snatch them from the fire:  Some are in so deep, that their clothes are on fire.  They need to be shaken up.  They need to see the danger, so they can turn around and flee.  Fear is the motivating factor.
7. Hate sin:  It is important that we keep focus during the battle, and never let our guard down.  We can be defeated as easily as those we seek to rescue.
8. Praise: There is healing, and strength, and encouragement in praise.  To God be the glory always and forever.

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