S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

The short letter of 2 John is written in part to warn believers against the influence of false teachers. John identifies them as those "who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh" a...

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July 01 2013 • 4 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Nathan Toronga Supporter Christian Elder.

The correct answer is "No, don't allow false teachers into your home."

But then, I must qualify that answer.

With so many versions of 'truth' going around, with each peddler insisting that their version is the correct one, I strongly suggest you don't turn away the 'false' teachers. Why, because you just might be actually following false teachers NOW, and the supposed 'false' teacher may actually be bringing the truth!

So my advice is, 'test everything. Hold on to the good' 1 Thessalonians 5:21 (NIV).

And don't subject yourself to 'hollow and deceptive philosophy', but check everything against the written Word. That alone is the standard of faith. And the Word consists of all books, from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21.

It's actually FALSE teachers who are quick to block you from hearing alternative versions, because they fear the truth will set you free.

Bless.

January 08 2014 • 2 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

Should we allow false teachers into our homes?

Based on 2 John 1:10-11, you should not welcome false teachers into your home or greet them, as this makes you a participant in their evil works. The Bible advises guarding your home against those who promote false doctrines, particularly those denying Christ's humanity or divinity. 

Biblical Command: The primary instruction in 2 John 10-11 is to avoid offering hospitality to those who actively spread false doctrines, as it is seen as supporting their message.

Context of "Home": In the first century, homes were used as house churches. Therefore, "receiving them into your house" likely refers to not letting them into the congregation to teach, rather than merely having a polite, brief interaction with a neighbour or visitor.

Distinction in Treatment: While you should not welcome them as teachers or partners in ministry, this does not mean being inherently rude or uncivil. It is possible to be firm and polite.

Protection: The goal is to guard your home and family from the corruption of false teachings, especially if they are actively trying to deceive others.

Evangelism vs Endorsement: Some suggest that while we shouldn't allow them to use our home as a "base of operations" or a teaching platform, there is nothing wrong with inviting someone in specifically to share the true Gospel with them, provided it is done with discernment.

Before deciding to exclude someone, many sources recommend "testing the spirits" (1 John 4:1) based on these criteria: 

The Nature of Christ: Does the teacher deny that Jesus Christ came in the flesh or is the Son of God?.

The Gospel: Do they preach a "different gospel" (e.g., adding human works to faith alone)?

Character and Fruit: Does their life exhibit pride, greed, or immorality rather than the fruit of the Spirit?. 

2 John 1: 10-11 ESV: "If anyone cometh unto you, and bringeth not this teaching, receive him not into your house, and give him no greeting: 11 for he that giveth him greeting partaketh in his evil works."

The Christian apostle John directed fellow believers never to accept such a false teacher into their homes or to greet him, which would give him an opening for presenting his twisted, corrupt doctrine. Greeting such a person would have indicated a measure of approval and made one a sharer in "his wicked works."

The apostle Paul knew that association with those who had rejected this Christian teaching would be destructive to faith. That is why he wrote: "Be not deceived: Evil companionships corrupt good morals."​—1Co 15: 33.

Paul also wrote to the Roman Congregation Rom 16:17: "17 I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them."

Note Jesus words: Jesus says in Matthew 7:15–20, "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognise them by their fruits."

The Nature and Disguise of False Teachers

Matthew 7:15 warns of false prophets who appear as sheep but are "ravenous wolves" inwardly.

2 Corinthians 11:13–15: Describes them as "false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ".

Jude 1:4: Notes they "crept in unnoticed" to turn God's grace into "lewdness".

2 Timothy 3:5: Highlights they hold a "form of godliness but deny its power".

Matthew 24:24: Mentions they will perform "great signs and wonders" to deceive.

Romans 16:18 States they serve their "own appetites" rather than Christ, using "smooth talk and flattery."

4 days ago • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report