2nd.Timothy 2:15-19 "Study to show thyself approved unto GOD, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the WORD of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some. Nevertheless the foundation of GOD standeth sure, having this seal. The LORD knoweth them that are HIS. And, let everyone that nameth the name of CHRIST depart from iniquity."
Opposition to the truth abounds; "nevertheless the foundation of GOD standeth sure" (v.19). "Profane and vain" babblers during the days of the early church proclaimed false teachings that led to an increase of ungodliness (v.16), and they spoke words that acted as a deadly spiritual cancer (vv.17-18). In our day, many in Christendom think that mentioning false teachers by name is "unloving," but note that the Apostle Paul listed two of the deceivers of his day: Hymenaeus and Philetus. Throughout the Bible, the errant are identified and rebuked. Faithful servants of CHRIST today likewise have GOD's command to ascertain and expose deception (Romans 16:17; 2nd.Thessaslonians 3:6 pictured above, and 2nd.Thessalonians 3:14). The foundation of the faith, the WORD of GOD, is the criterion by which we are to judge truth and error, and every person is responsible to apply that standard (Psalm 119:104 pictured below).
What Bible-taught believer could fail to recognize the fact that "vain babblers" are multiplying rapidly ? Theological liberals continue to encourage men and women to doubt the veracity and authenticity of Scriptures. Ecumenical leaders are devising programs intended to unite all people, regardless of creed. Roman Catholic, Mormons, JW's, & 7th.Day Adventists, and countless other unbiblical religious groups believe and proclaim a false gospel of salvation by works, and they are not leading lost souls to the light of GOD's saving power but, on the contrary, are giving them false hope. Despite the popularity of errant and compromising teachers, we must stand fast against any who do not preach and embrace sound doctrine. Christians must identify and separate from all spiritual infidelity and iniquity (v.19) and, instead, rest upon GOD's firm foundation of truth ! MHR
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie
Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.
Used with permission. www.featoday.org
https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation
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