TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS
SERMON TOPIC:
5 “RELIGIONS” THAT SEEM CHRISTIAN, BUT ARE NOT!
Theme Scripture:
“For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders…” — Matthew 24:24
> Important clarification: This message should not be used to attack people or mock sincere believers. The issue is doctrine—what a movement teaches about Jesus Christ, salvation, Scripture, and the gospel. Some groups may use Christian language while holding beliefs that differ fundamentally from historic biblical Christianity.
NOT EVERYTHING THAT SAYS “JESUS” PREACHES JESUS.
Church, one of the greatest dangers facing Christianity today is not only atheism.
It is deception wearing religious clothing.
The greatest danger is not always the person who says, “I don't believe in Jesus.” Sometimes the greater danger is the person who says, “Jesus is Lord,” carries a Bible, talks about prayer, sings Christian songs—but teaches another gospel.
Jesus warned us:
Matthew 7:15:
> “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing…”
Notice something: Jesus did not say they would come looking like wolves.
They come in sheep's clothing.
That means deception can look familiar.
It can sound spiritual.
It can quote Scripture.
It can mention Jesus.
It can even perform impressive religious activities.
But the question is:
WHO IS JESUS TO YOU?
Because Christianity is not simply about believing that Jesus existed.
It is about believing who Jesus is, what He accomplished on the cross, and how sinners are saved through Him.
1. THE JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES.
Jehovah's Witnesses use the Bible extensively and speak about God and Jesus. However, their theology differs fundamentally from historic Christian doctrine.
One major difference concerns the identity of Jesus Christ.
Historic Christianity teaches that Jesus is truly God, eternally existing with the Father and the Holy Spirit.
John 1:1 says:
> “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
And John 1:14 identifies the Word:
> “And the Word was made flesh…”
Jesus is not merely a created messenger.
Why does this matter?
Because if Jesus is only a created being, then the biblical doctrine of Christ has been fundamentally changed.
Colossians 1:16 says concerning Christ:
> “For by him were all things created…”
If all things were created through Him, Christ cannot simply be another created thing.
Spiritual lesson:
Do not determine truth by how much Scripture someone quotes. Determine truth by whether their teaching agrees with the whole counsel of Scripture.
2. THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS — LDS/MORMONISM.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints uses the name of Jesus Christ and teaches about God, salvation, prayer and family.
But its theology differs substantially from historic Christianity.
Among its distinctive teachings are additional scriptures and doctrines concerning God, humanity, Jesus Christ, salvation and eternal destiny.
The biblical faith teaches that Scripture is God's authoritative revelation and that the gospel of Christ is not to be replaced by another gospel.
Paul warned:
Galatians 1:8
> “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.”
The issue is therefore not merely:
“Do they talk about Jesus?”
The issue is:
“Is the Jesus they preach the Jesus revealed in Scripture?”
Paul said:
2 Corinthians 11:4
> “For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus…
There can be a different Jesus presented using the same name.
3. CHRISTIAN SCIENCE.
Christian Science uses Christian vocabulary and refers to Jesus, God, prayer and healing.
But its understanding of fundamental Christian doctrines differs significantly from biblical Christianity.
Historic Christianity teaches the reality of sin, the physical incarnation of Christ, His death and bodily resurrection.
The Bible says:
1 Corinthians 15:3–4
> “Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day…”
The resurrection was not merely a spiritual idea.
Jesus physically rose from the dead.
Thomas was invited to touch the wounds of the risen Christ.
Jesus Himself said:
Luke 24:39
> “A spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.”
Spiritual lesson:
Never reduce Christianity to positive thinking, spirituality or personal experience.
The Christian faith is grounded in the historical work of Jesus Christ.
The cross was real.
The blood was real.
The resurrection was real.
And salvation is real.
4. UNITARIAN UNIVERSALISM
Unitarian Universalism is religiously diverse and generally does not require belief in the historic Christian doctrines of the Trinity, the deity of Christ, or salvation through Christ alone.
This is important because Christianity is not simply:
> “Be a good person, love everybody, and believe in God.”
Jesus did not teach that human morality alone could save us.
Jesus said:
John 14:6
> “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
Christianity is fundamentally Christ-centered.
Acts 4:12 declares:
> “Neither is there salvation in any other…”
The danger of religious morality
A person can be kind and still be spiritually lost.
A person can give to charity and still need salvation.
A person can help the poor and still need Christ.
Good works are important—but good works do not replace the gospel.
Ephesians 2:8–9 says:
> “For by grace are ye saved through faith… Not of works…”
5. ONENESS PENTECOSTALISM
Here we need to be especially careful.
Not everyone who uses the term "Oneness Pentecostal" believes exactly the same thing, but historic Christian churches generally regard Oneness theology as outside orthodox Trinitarian Christianity.
Why?
Because historic Christianity teaches:
One God in three distinct Persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Matthew 28:19 says:
> “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”
At Jesus' baptism, we see the Son being baptized, the Spirit descending like a dove, and the Father's voice from heaven.
The Father is not the Son.
The Son is not the Holy Spirit.
Yet there is one God.
This is the mystery of the Trinity.
Spiritual lesson:
We must never reshape God into something easier for our minds to understand.
We submit our understanding to God's revelation.
THE BIBLICAL CASE STUDY:
THE BEREANS.
Acts 17:11 gives us one of the greatest examples of spiritual discernment.
The Bereans:
> “received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”
Notice they did not blindly accept even Paul's preaching.
They searched the Scriptures.
That is spiritual maturity.
The question is not:
> “Who preached it?”
The question is:
> “Is it biblical?”
Not:
> “How popular is this teacher?”
But:
> “Does this teaching agree with Scripture?”
Not:
> “How many miracles happened?”
But:
> “Does this exalt the biblical Christ?”
5 TESTS FOR IDENTIFYING FALSE TEACHING.
1. WHAT DOES IT TEACH ABOUT JESUS?
Is Jesus truly God?
Did He truly become flesh?
Did He truly die?
Did He physically rise from the dead?
Is He the only Savior?
1 John 4:2–3 gives us a serious test concerning the confession of Christ.
2. WHAT DOES IT TEACH ABOUT SALVATION?
The biblical gospel says:
Ephesians 2:8:
> “For by grace are ye saved through faith…”
Salvation is not something we purchase with good works.
It is God's gift through faith in Christ.
3. WHAT AUTHORITY DOES IT GIVE SCRIPTURE?
Whenever a movement says:
> “The Bible is not enough; you need our special revelation…”
Christians must examine that claim carefully.
The Bereans searched the Scriptures.
Acts 17:11.
4. DOES IT PREACH ANOTHER GOSPEL?
Paul was extremely strong about this.
Galatians 1:9:
> “If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.”
There is only one gospel.
5. DOES IT PRODUCE CHRISTLIKE FRUIT?
Jesus said:
Matthew 7:20
> “Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.”
Truth should produce holiness.
Grace should produce transformation.
The gospel should produce Christlikeness.
DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHT.
The devil does not always need to convince people to stop believing in God.
Sometimes he only needs to convince them to believe in a distorted version of God.
That is why discernment is essential.
Satan quoted Scripture when he tempted Jesus.
Matthew 4:6.
So the question is not simply:
“Does this person quote the Bible?”
The question is:
“Is the Bible being interpreted correctly and is Christ being faithfully proclaimed?”
PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS.
1. READ YOUR BIBLE FOR YOURSELF
Do not build your theology entirely on sermons, TikTok videos, Facebook posts or YouTube clips.
2 Timothy 2:15 calls believers to rightly divide the word of truth.
2. KNOW THE FUNDAMENTALS OF CHRISTIAN FAITH
Know what the Bible teaches about:
God
Jesus Christ
The Holy Spirit
Sin
Salvation
Grace
The resurrection
The second coming
The authority of Scripture
3. TEST EVERY TEACHING
Don't reject something merely because it is unfamiliar.
And don't accept something merely because it is popular.
Test it by Scripture.
4. DON'T MOCK PEOPLE
Our assignment is not to insult people.
Our assignment is to speak the truth in love.
2 Timothy 2:24–25 teaches believers to correct those who oppose the truth with gentleness.
5. KEEP YOUR EYES ON CHRIST.
The goal of discernment is not to become experts in other people's errors.
The goal is to become deeply rooted in Jesus Christ and His Word.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION.
1. Who do I believe Jesus Christ really is?
2. Do I know the biblical gospel clearly?
3. Can I recognize false teaching when I hear it?
4. Do I read Scripture for myself?
5. Have I allowed popularity to become my standard for truth?
6. Am I following Christ—or merely following a religious personality?
7. Can I defend my faith from Scripture?
POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS.
1.
Father, give me the spirit of discernment. Help me distinguish truth from error, in Jesus' name.
2.
Lord, establish me deeply in Your Word so that I will not be carried away by every doctrine.
3.
Father, reveal every false belief operating in my life and lead me into biblical truth.
4.
Lord Jesus, help me know You—not merely know about You.
5.
Give me wisdom to recognize false teachers without becoming judgmental, arrogant or hateful.
6.
Holy Spirit, protect my heart from deception and keep me faithful to the true gospel.
7.
Father, make me a faithful teacher of Your Word who will speak truth with love.
STRONG CLOSING:
DON'T JUST CARRY A BIBLE—KNOW THE CHRIST OF THE BIBLE
Beloved, we are living in a generation where information is everywhere but discernment is becoming scarce.
Everybody has a microphone.
Everybody has an opinion.
Everybody can build a platform.
Everybody can quote a Bible verse.
But not everybody is preaching the gospel.
Therefore, don't follow a preacher simply because he is famous.
Don't follow a movement because it is popular.
Don't follow a religion because it uses Christian language.
Follow Jesus Christ.
Search the Scriptures.
Test every doctrine.
Guard your faith.
Know the Word.
Know the Savior.
And when deception comes wearing religious clothing, may the Holy Spirit give you the wisdom to recognize it.
“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God.” — 1 John 4:1
The question is not merely, “Does it look Christian?”
The question is: “Does it faithfully proclaim the Jesus of Scripture and the gospel of grace?”
Stand on the Word.
Hold fast to Christ.
Walk in truth.
And never trade biblical truth for religious appearance.
Surrender to Jesus by joining a Bible believing Church near you.
You can get inspirational ebooks from my selar/Amazon shops below
https://selar.com/m/umoh-edem1
https://selar.com/m/umoedem
https://www.amazon.com/author/umohedembooks
https://afrikdp.com/author/9128a016-dd79-4f17-9e60-bf11f65f1a34
CONTACT - WhatsApp +2349024173028, +2349055447540
Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com
SERMON TOPIC:
5 “RELIGIONS” THAT SEEM CHRISTIAN, BUT ARE NOT!
Theme Scripture:
“For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders…” — Matthew 24:24
> Important clarification: This message should not be used to attack people or mock sincere believers. The issue is doctrine—what a movement teaches about Jesus Christ, salvation, Scripture, and the gospel. Some groups may use Christian language while holding beliefs that differ fundamentally from historic biblical Christianity.
NOT EVERYTHING THAT SAYS “JESUS” PREACHES JESUS.
Church, one of the greatest dangers facing Christianity today is not only atheism.
It is deception wearing religious clothing.
The greatest danger is not always the person who says, “I don't believe in Jesus.” Sometimes the greater danger is the person who says, “Jesus is Lord,” carries a Bible, talks about prayer, sings Christian songs—but teaches another gospel.
Jesus warned us:
Matthew 7:15:
> “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing…”
Notice something: Jesus did not say they would come looking like wolves.
They come in sheep's clothing.
That means deception can look familiar.
It can sound spiritual.
It can quote Scripture.
It can mention Jesus.
It can even perform impressive religious activities.
But the question is:
WHO IS JESUS TO YOU?
Because Christianity is not simply about believing that Jesus existed.
It is about believing who Jesus is, what He accomplished on the cross, and how sinners are saved through Him.
1. THE JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES.
Jehovah's Witnesses use the Bible extensively and speak about God and Jesus. However, their theology differs fundamentally from historic Christian doctrine.
One major difference concerns the identity of Jesus Christ.
Historic Christianity teaches that Jesus is truly God, eternally existing with the Father and the Holy Spirit.
John 1:1 says:
> “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
And John 1:14 identifies the Word:
> “And the Word was made flesh…”
Jesus is not merely a created messenger.
Why does this matter?
Because if Jesus is only a created being, then the biblical doctrine of Christ has been fundamentally changed.
Colossians 1:16 says concerning Christ:
> “For by him were all things created…”
If all things were created through Him, Christ cannot simply be another created thing.
Spiritual lesson:
Do not determine truth by how much Scripture someone quotes. Determine truth by whether their teaching agrees with the whole counsel of Scripture.
2. THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS — LDS/MORMONISM.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints uses the name of Jesus Christ and teaches about God, salvation, prayer and family.
But its theology differs substantially from historic Christianity.
Among its distinctive teachings are additional scriptures and doctrines concerning God, humanity, Jesus Christ, salvation and eternal destiny.
The biblical faith teaches that Scripture is God's authoritative revelation and that the gospel of Christ is not to be replaced by another gospel.
Paul warned:
Galatians 1:8
> “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.”
The issue is therefore not merely:
“Do they talk about Jesus?”
The issue is:
“Is the Jesus they preach the Jesus revealed in Scripture?”
Paul said:
2 Corinthians 11:4
> “For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus…
There can be a different Jesus presented using the same name.
3. CHRISTIAN SCIENCE.
Christian Science uses Christian vocabulary and refers to Jesus, God, prayer and healing.
But its understanding of fundamental Christian doctrines differs significantly from biblical Christianity.
Historic Christianity teaches the reality of sin, the physical incarnation of Christ, His death and bodily resurrection.
The Bible says:
1 Corinthians 15:3–4
> “Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day…”
The resurrection was not merely a spiritual idea.
Jesus physically rose from the dead.
Thomas was invited to touch the wounds of the risen Christ.
Jesus Himself said:
Luke 24:39
> “A spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.”
Spiritual lesson:
Never reduce Christianity to positive thinking, spirituality or personal experience.
The Christian faith is grounded in the historical work of Jesus Christ.
The cross was real.
The blood was real.
The resurrection was real.
And salvation is real.
4. UNITARIAN UNIVERSALISM
Unitarian Universalism is religiously diverse and generally does not require belief in the historic Christian doctrines of the Trinity, the deity of Christ, or salvation through Christ alone.
This is important because Christianity is not simply:
> “Be a good person, love everybody, and believe in God.”
Jesus did not teach that human morality alone could save us.
Jesus said:
John 14:6
> “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
Christianity is fundamentally Christ-centered.
Acts 4:12 declares:
> “Neither is there salvation in any other…”
The danger of religious morality
A person can be kind and still be spiritually lost.
A person can give to charity and still need salvation.
A person can help the poor and still need Christ.
Good works are important—but good works do not replace the gospel.
Ephesians 2:8–9 says:
> “For by grace are ye saved through faith… Not of works…”
5. ONENESS PENTECOSTALISM
Here we need to be especially careful.
Not everyone who uses the term "Oneness Pentecostal" believes exactly the same thing, but historic Christian churches generally regard Oneness theology as outside orthodox Trinitarian Christianity.
Why?
Because historic Christianity teaches:
One God in three distinct Persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Matthew 28:19 says:
> “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”
At Jesus' baptism, we see the Son being baptized, the Spirit descending like a dove, and the Father's voice from heaven.
The Father is not the Son.
The Son is not the Holy Spirit.
Yet there is one God.
This is the mystery of the Trinity.
Spiritual lesson:
We must never reshape God into something easier for our minds to understand.
We submit our understanding to God's revelation.
THE BIBLICAL CASE STUDY:
THE BEREANS.
Acts 17:11 gives us one of the greatest examples of spiritual discernment.
The Bereans:
> “received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”
Notice they did not blindly accept even Paul's preaching.
They searched the Scriptures.
That is spiritual maturity.
The question is not:
> “Who preached it?”
The question is:
> “Is it biblical?”
Not:
> “How popular is this teacher?”
But:
> “Does this teaching agree with Scripture?”
Not:
> “How many miracles happened?”
But:
> “Does this exalt the biblical Christ?”
5 TESTS FOR IDENTIFYING FALSE TEACHING.
1. WHAT DOES IT TEACH ABOUT JESUS?
Is Jesus truly God?
Did He truly become flesh?
Did He truly die?
Did He physically rise from the dead?
Is He the only Savior?
1 John 4:2–3 gives us a serious test concerning the confession of Christ.
2. WHAT DOES IT TEACH ABOUT SALVATION?
The biblical gospel says:
Ephesians 2:8:
> “For by grace are ye saved through faith…”
Salvation is not something we purchase with good works.
It is God's gift through faith in Christ.
3. WHAT AUTHORITY DOES IT GIVE SCRIPTURE?
Whenever a movement says:
> “The Bible is not enough; you need our special revelation…”
Christians must examine that claim carefully.
The Bereans searched the Scriptures.
Acts 17:11.
4. DOES IT PREACH ANOTHER GOSPEL?
Paul was extremely strong about this.
Galatians 1:9:
> “If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.”
There is only one gospel.
5. DOES IT PRODUCE CHRISTLIKE FRUIT?
Jesus said:
Matthew 7:20
> “Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.”
Truth should produce holiness.
Grace should produce transformation.
The gospel should produce Christlikeness.
DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHT.
The devil does not always need to convince people to stop believing in God.
Sometimes he only needs to convince them to believe in a distorted version of God.
That is why discernment is essential.
Satan quoted Scripture when he tempted Jesus.
Matthew 4:6.
So the question is not simply:
“Does this person quote the Bible?”
The question is:
“Is the Bible being interpreted correctly and is Christ being faithfully proclaimed?”
PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS.
1. READ YOUR BIBLE FOR YOURSELF
Do not build your theology entirely on sermons, TikTok videos, Facebook posts or YouTube clips.
2 Timothy 2:15 calls believers to rightly divide the word of truth.
2. KNOW THE FUNDAMENTALS OF CHRISTIAN FAITH
Know what the Bible teaches about:
God
Jesus Christ
The Holy Spirit
Sin
Salvation
Grace
The resurrection
The second coming
The authority of Scripture
3. TEST EVERY TEACHING
Don't reject something merely because it is unfamiliar.
And don't accept something merely because it is popular.
Test it by Scripture.
4. DON'T MOCK PEOPLE
Our assignment is not to insult people.
Our assignment is to speak the truth in love.
2 Timothy 2:24–25 teaches believers to correct those who oppose the truth with gentleness.
5. KEEP YOUR EYES ON CHRIST.
The goal of discernment is not to become experts in other people's errors.
The goal is to become deeply rooted in Jesus Christ and His Word.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION.
1. Who do I believe Jesus Christ really is?
2. Do I know the biblical gospel clearly?
3. Can I recognize false teaching when I hear it?
4. Do I read Scripture for myself?
5. Have I allowed popularity to become my standard for truth?
6. Am I following Christ—or merely following a religious personality?
7. Can I defend my faith from Scripture?
POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS.
1.
Father, give me the spirit of discernment. Help me distinguish truth from error, in Jesus' name.
2.
Lord, establish me deeply in Your Word so that I will not be carried away by every doctrine.
3.
Father, reveal every false belief operating in my life and lead me into biblical truth.
4.
Lord Jesus, help me know You—not merely know about You.
5.
Give me wisdom to recognize false teachers without becoming judgmental, arrogant or hateful.
6.
Holy Spirit, protect my heart from deception and keep me faithful to the true gospel.
7.
Father, make me a faithful teacher of Your Word who will speak truth with love.
STRONG CLOSING:
DON'T JUST CARRY A BIBLE—KNOW THE CHRIST OF THE BIBLE
Beloved, we are living in a generation where information is everywhere but discernment is becoming scarce.
Everybody has a microphone.
Everybody has an opinion.
Everybody can build a platform.
Everybody can quote a Bible verse.
But not everybody is preaching the gospel.
Therefore, don't follow a preacher simply because he is famous.
Don't follow a movement because it is popular.
Don't follow a religion because it uses Christian language.
Follow Jesus Christ.
Search the Scriptures.
Test every doctrine.
Guard your faith.
Know the Word.
Know the Savior.
And when deception comes wearing religious clothing, may the Holy Spirit give you the wisdom to recognize it.
“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God.” — 1 John 4:1
The question is not merely, “Does it look Christian?”
The question is: “Does it faithfully proclaim the Jesus of Scripture and the gospel of grace?”
Stand on the Word.
Hold fast to Christ.
Walk in truth.
And never trade biblical truth for religious appearance.
Surrender to Jesus by joining a Bible believing Church near you.
You can get inspirational ebooks from my selar/Amazon shops below
https://selar.com/m/umoh-edem1
https://selar.com/m/umoedem
https://www.amazon.com/author/umohedembooks
https://afrikdp.com/author/9128a016-dd79-4f17-9e60-bf11f65f1a34
CONTACT - WhatsApp +2349024173028, +2349055447540
Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com
TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS
SERMON TOPIC:
5 “RELIGIONS” THAT SEEM CHRISTIAN, BUT ARE NOT!
Theme Scripture:
“For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders…” — Matthew 24:24
> Important clarification: This message should not be used to attack people or mock sincere believers. The issue is doctrine—what a movement teaches about Jesus Christ, salvation, Scripture, and the gospel. Some groups may use Christian language while holding beliefs that differ fundamentally from historic biblical Christianity.
NOT EVERYTHING THAT SAYS “JESUS” PREACHES JESUS.
Church, one of the greatest dangers facing Christianity today is not only atheism.
It is deception wearing religious clothing.
The greatest danger is not always the person who says, “I don't believe in Jesus.” Sometimes the greater danger is the person who says, “Jesus is Lord,” carries a Bible, talks about prayer, sings Christian songs—but teaches another gospel.
Jesus warned us:
Matthew 7:15:
> “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing…”
Notice something: Jesus did not say they would come looking like wolves.
They come in sheep's clothing.
That means deception can look familiar.
It can sound spiritual.
It can quote Scripture.
It can mention Jesus.
It can even perform impressive religious activities.
But the question is:
WHO IS JESUS TO YOU?
Because Christianity is not simply about believing that Jesus existed.
It is about believing who Jesus is, what He accomplished on the cross, and how sinners are saved through Him.
1. THE JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES.
Jehovah's Witnesses use the Bible extensively and speak about God and Jesus. However, their theology differs fundamentally from historic Christian doctrine.
One major difference concerns the identity of Jesus Christ.
Historic Christianity teaches that Jesus is truly God, eternally existing with the Father and the Holy Spirit.
John 1:1 says:
> “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
And John 1:14 identifies the Word:
> “And the Word was made flesh…”
Jesus is not merely a created messenger.
Why does this matter?
Because if Jesus is only a created being, then the biblical doctrine of Christ has been fundamentally changed.
Colossians 1:16 says concerning Christ:
> “For by him were all things created…”
If all things were created through Him, Christ cannot simply be another created thing.
Spiritual lesson:
Do not determine truth by how much Scripture someone quotes. Determine truth by whether their teaching agrees with the whole counsel of Scripture.
2. THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS — LDS/MORMONISM.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints uses the name of Jesus Christ and teaches about God, salvation, prayer and family.
But its theology differs substantially from historic Christianity.
Among its distinctive teachings are additional scriptures and doctrines concerning God, humanity, Jesus Christ, salvation and eternal destiny.
The biblical faith teaches that Scripture is God's authoritative revelation and that the gospel of Christ is not to be replaced by another gospel.
Paul warned:
Galatians 1:8
> “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.”
The issue is therefore not merely:
“Do they talk about Jesus?”
The issue is:
“Is the Jesus they preach the Jesus revealed in Scripture?”
Paul said:
2 Corinthians 11:4
> “For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus…
There can be a different Jesus presented using the same name.
3. CHRISTIAN SCIENCE.
Christian Science uses Christian vocabulary and refers to Jesus, God, prayer and healing.
But its understanding of fundamental Christian doctrines differs significantly from biblical Christianity.
Historic Christianity teaches the reality of sin, the physical incarnation of Christ, His death and bodily resurrection.
The Bible says:
1 Corinthians 15:3–4
> “Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day…”
The resurrection was not merely a spiritual idea.
Jesus physically rose from the dead.
Thomas was invited to touch the wounds of the risen Christ.
Jesus Himself said:
Luke 24:39
> “A spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.”
Spiritual lesson:
Never reduce Christianity to positive thinking, spirituality or personal experience.
The Christian faith is grounded in the historical work of Jesus Christ.
The cross was real.
The blood was real.
The resurrection was real.
And salvation is real.
4. UNITARIAN UNIVERSALISM
Unitarian Universalism is religiously diverse and generally does not require belief in the historic Christian doctrines of the Trinity, the deity of Christ, or salvation through Christ alone.
This is important because Christianity is not simply:
> “Be a good person, love everybody, and believe in God.”
Jesus did not teach that human morality alone could save us.
Jesus said:
John 14:6
> “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
Christianity is fundamentally Christ-centered.
Acts 4:12 declares:
> “Neither is there salvation in any other…”
The danger of religious morality
A person can be kind and still be spiritually lost.
A person can give to charity and still need salvation.
A person can help the poor and still need Christ.
Good works are important—but good works do not replace the gospel.
Ephesians 2:8–9 says:
> “For by grace are ye saved through faith… Not of works…”
5. ONENESS PENTECOSTALISM
Here we need to be especially careful.
Not everyone who uses the term "Oneness Pentecostal" believes exactly the same thing, but historic Christian churches generally regard Oneness theology as outside orthodox Trinitarian Christianity.
Why?
Because historic Christianity teaches:
One God in three distinct Persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Matthew 28:19 says:
> “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”
At Jesus' baptism, we see the Son being baptized, the Spirit descending like a dove, and the Father's voice from heaven.
The Father is not the Son.
The Son is not the Holy Spirit.
Yet there is one God.
This is the mystery of the Trinity.
Spiritual lesson:
We must never reshape God into something easier for our minds to understand.
We submit our understanding to God's revelation.
THE BIBLICAL CASE STUDY:
THE BEREANS.
Acts 17:11 gives us one of the greatest examples of spiritual discernment.
The Bereans:
> “received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”
Notice they did not blindly accept even Paul's preaching.
They searched the Scriptures.
That is spiritual maturity.
The question is not:
> “Who preached it?”
The question is:
> “Is it biblical?”
Not:
> “How popular is this teacher?”
But:
> “Does this teaching agree with Scripture?”
Not:
> “How many miracles happened?”
But:
> “Does this exalt the biblical Christ?”
5 TESTS FOR IDENTIFYING FALSE TEACHING.
1. WHAT DOES IT TEACH ABOUT JESUS?
Is Jesus truly God?
Did He truly become flesh?
Did He truly die?
Did He physically rise from the dead?
Is He the only Savior?
1 John 4:2–3 gives us a serious test concerning the confession of Christ.
2. WHAT DOES IT TEACH ABOUT SALVATION?
The biblical gospel says:
Ephesians 2:8:
> “For by grace are ye saved through faith…”
Salvation is not something we purchase with good works.
It is God's gift through faith in Christ.
3. WHAT AUTHORITY DOES IT GIVE SCRIPTURE?
Whenever a movement says:
> “The Bible is not enough; you need our special revelation…”
Christians must examine that claim carefully.
The Bereans searched the Scriptures.
Acts 17:11.
4. DOES IT PREACH ANOTHER GOSPEL?
Paul was extremely strong about this.
Galatians 1:9:
> “If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.”
There is only one gospel.
5. DOES IT PRODUCE CHRISTLIKE FRUIT?
Jesus said:
Matthew 7:20
> “Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.”
Truth should produce holiness.
Grace should produce transformation.
The gospel should produce Christlikeness.
DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHT.
The devil does not always need to convince people to stop believing in God.
Sometimes he only needs to convince them to believe in a distorted version of God.
That is why discernment is essential.
Satan quoted Scripture when he tempted Jesus.
Matthew 4:6.
So the question is not simply:
“Does this person quote the Bible?”
The question is:
“Is the Bible being interpreted correctly and is Christ being faithfully proclaimed?”
PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS.
1. READ YOUR BIBLE FOR YOURSELF
Do not build your theology entirely on sermons, TikTok videos, Facebook posts or YouTube clips.
2 Timothy 2:15 calls believers to rightly divide the word of truth.
2. KNOW THE FUNDAMENTALS OF CHRISTIAN FAITH
Know what the Bible teaches about:
God
Jesus Christ
The Holy Spirit
Sin
Salvation
Grace
The resurrection
The second coming
The authority of Scripture
3. TEST EVERY TEACHING
Don't reject something merely because it is unfamiliar.
And don't accept something merely because it is popular.
Test it by Scripture.
4. DON'T MOCK PEOPLE
Our assignment is not to insult people.
Our assignment is to speak the truth in love.
2 Timothy 2:24–25 teaches believers to correct those who oppose the truth with gentleness.
5. KEEP YOUR EYES ON CHRIST.
The goal of discernment is not to become experts in other people's errors.
The goal is to become deeply rooted in Jesus Christ and His Word.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION.
1. Who do I believe Jesus Christ really is?
2. Do I know the biblical gospel clearly?
3. Can I recognize false teaching when I hear it?
4. Do I read Scripture for myself?
5. Have I allowed popularity to become my standard for truth?
6. Am I following Christ—or merely following a religious personality?
7. Can I defend my faith from Scripture?
POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS.
1.
Father, give me the spirit of discernment. Help me distinguish truth from error, in Jesus' name.
2.
Lord, establish me deeply in Your Word so that I will not be carried away by every doctrine.
3.
Father, reveal every false belief operating in my life and lead me into biblical truth.
4.
Lord Jesus, help me know You—not merely know about You.
5.
Give me wisdom to recognize false teachers without becoming judgmental, arrogant or hateful.
6.
Holy Spirit, protect my heart from deception and keep me faithful to the true gospel.
7.
Father, make me a faithful teacher of Your Word who will speak truth with love.
STRONG CLOSING:
DON'T JUST CARRY A BIBLE—KNOW THE CHRIST OF THE BIBLE
Beloved, we are living in a generation where information is everywhere but discernment is becoming scarce.
Everybody has a microphone.
Everybody has an opinion.
Everybody can build a platform.
Everybody can quote a Bible verse.
But not everybody is preaching the gospel.
Therefore, don't follow a preacher simply because he is famous.
Don't follow a movement because it is popular.
Don't follow a religion because it uses Christian language.
Follow Jesus Christ.
Search the Scriptures.
Test every doctrine.
Guard your faith.
Know the Word.
Know the Savior.
And when deception comes wearing religious clothing, may the Holy Spirit give you the wisdom to recognize it.
“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God.” — 1 John 4:1
The question is not merely, “Does it look Christian?”
The question is: “Does it faithfully proclaim the Jesus of Scripture and the gospel of grace?”
Stand on the Word.
Hold fast to Christ.
Walk in truth.
And never trade biblical truth for religious appearance.
Surrender to Jesus by joining a Bible believing Church near you.
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