But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive opinions. They will even deny the Master who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. Even so, many will follow their debaucheries, and because of these teachers the way of truth will be maligned. And in their greed they will exploit you with deceptive words. Their condemnation, pronounced against them long ago, has not been idle, and their destruction is not asleep. (2 Peter 2:1-3, NRSVue)
Who are the false teachers and prophets?
I will be honest: I struggle with the thinking that I am a false teacher and false prophet, leading others astray from where God would have us go. The passages in the scripture say we will know the way, and people will try to lead others from that path. Many more are leading people down a path the church had taken for a long time, condemning people because of who they love and the fact that they are different. I worry that this is the proper path and that leading others down a path of love and inclusion for all is being a false prophet.
But then, I read the words of Jesus, who frees the woman caught breaking the commandments by committing adultery. Jesus says to love all, and all are included. And then I wonder how others can read the same words and walk away with hatred in their hearts and a desire to separate people from God.
What teaching is false? Anything that espouses hate and separation is not from God. Love is all you need.
Love like Jesus and let God figure out the rest.
