BONUS - How to Spot a False Teacher: Six Biblical Tests

Episode Focus: Scripture warns believers that false teachers will arise, sometimes from outside the church and sometimes from within it. Christians therefore need more than suspicion, theological tribalism, or a list of names. They need biblical discernment. This episode distinguishes doctrinal disagreement, false doctrine, and a false teacher, then develops six biblical questions believers can use to test those who claim to teach the Word of God.

Central Truth: A false teacher is not identified merely because he disagrees with us. He is identified by testing his doctrine, authority, gospel, conduct, response to Scripture, and fruit against the revealed Word of God.

Pastoral Aim: Help believers recognize serious spiritual danger without becoming suspicious of every theological disagreement, and teach them when Scripture calls for correction and when it calls for separation.

Primary Scriptures: Matthew 7:15–23, Acts 20:28–31, Romans 16:17–18, Galatians 1:6–9, 2 Timothy 4:1–4, 2 Peter 2:1–3, 1 John 4:1–6, Jude 3–4

Supporting Scriptures: Matthew 10:14, Acts 17:10–11, Acts 13:50–51, 1 Timothy 4:1–2, Titus 1:9–11, 2 John 7–11