Well, how do we identify and respond to false teachers, specifically pastors who persistently teach false doctrine?

Hopefully we never have to face that dilemma, but if we do, the Bible tells us exactly what to do.

It's the application of tomorrow's Bible reading in today's question from Devin.

Pastor John, hello, and thank you for this podcast. I'm seeking clarity on how to apply

2nd John v. 10 and 11 in identifying and rejecting false teachers, particularly when it comes

to pastors within a local church. I'm not in this situation right now,

thankfully, but I want to be prepared. The passage warns against even greeting those who do not

bring the apostolic teaching, which raises serious concerns about continued association with a pastor

who distorts or denies biblical truth.

If a pastor persistently teaches false doctrine and the elders fail to act, does this mean the

congregation is obligated to leave the church altogether? How do we distinguish between a pastor

who is simply mistaken on secondary issues and one who falls into

the category of a false teacher described in this passage. Additionally, what does it look like

in practice to avoid rebuke or call out such a leader while still upholding biblical love

and humility? I'd appreciate your wisdom on how to faithfully apply this passage in today's church context.

There really are three questions.

There's a lot, yeah.

In that question.

So I'll take them one at a time.

I thought I would pick one, but I think I can do all three briefly.

Good.

So first, are we obligated to leave a church where a pastor persistently teaches false doctrine?

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