How to Test a Teaching Against Scripture
We have access to more Christian content than any generation in history: sermons, podcasts, books, YouTube channels, and endless social media posts. That's a blessing. But it also means believers need discernment more than ever. Not everything that sounds spiritual is biblical.
1 John 4:1: "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world."
The Berean example
Acts 17:11: "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so."
The Bereans checked even the apostle Paul's teaching against Scripture, and they were praised for it.
A warning for our time
2 Timothy 4:3–4: "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth."
It's easy to follow teachers who tell us what we want to hear. Discernment means following the truth even when it's uncomfortable.
7 questions to test any teaching
1. Who do they say Jesus is? Is Jesus presented as fully God and fully man, crucified and risen, the only way to the Father (John 14:6)? Or just a good teacher, a spiritual guide, or one path among many?
2. What gospel do they preach? Is salvation by grace through faith in Christ, or by works, secret knowledge, or positive thinking? Paul warned strongly against "any other gospel" (Galatians 1:8).
3. Is Scripture used in context? Do they read verses in their original setting, or pull them out to support their own ideas?
4. Who gets the glory? Does the teaching point to God, or build up the teacher's platform, personality, or brand?
5. What's the fruit? Look at their life and their followers: humility, love, integrity, and holiness, or pride, scandal, and division? (Matthew 7:16)
6. How do they handle money? Are they asking for "seed offerings" in exchange for blessings? Promising wealth for giving? Be cautious.
7. Are they accountable? Are they part of a church community with leadership that can correct them?
Special caution online
Social media rewards what's viral, not what's true. A confident voice and a large following don't equal sound doctrine. Check claims against Scripture, compare with trusted teachers, and ask your pastor when something seems off.
Build your foundation
The best protection against false teaching is knowing the real thing. Bank tellers learn to spot counterfeits by studying genuine bills. Spend time in God's Word daily. Keep your Bible handy in a Bible cover, and mark key passages with a bookmark.
A prayer
Lord, give me a Berean heart, eager to learn and careful to test everything against Your Word. Protect me from teaching that leads me away from You. Give me wisdom, humility, and a deep love for the truth. Amen.
