For some reason, many within the Church think the New Testament represents a positive cuddle-fest. They have been taught a cinematic version of a white European Jesus who seems to levitate across culture never raising His voice or addressing error.  Their illusion about reality is uncomfortably interrupted by the writings of the early apostles.

Paul told Church leaders to expel people from their fellowship who were living in sin or creating division.  John wrote the book of Revelation offering an apocalyptic forecast of the future, and Peter, the redeemed redneck fisherman who refused to hold back the punches of truth, wrote some challenging words himself.

Peter had strong words to share about those who spoke in God’s name, especially those who claim to be prophets. Prophecy is not limited to words of hope or stark warnings. It can devolve in another direction to become a dismissal of anything negative that turns our attention away from the harsh realities of life. That kind of teaching can become a lopsided mushy lovefest of faith without consequence.

Peter described those who mishandle the truth, “But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. (II Peter 2: 1-2).

Peter refused to be warm and fuzzy when it came to such matters. He called out deceivers. “They are like unreasoning animals, creatures of instinct, born only to be caught and destroyed, and like animals, they too will perish. They will be paid back with harm for the harm they have done. (2:12-13). Peter wrote these words around A.D. 67, shortly before his execution.

Peter warned the Church of his day and he warns us in our present context of what can happen to a life of faith without truth and consequence. “Therefore, dear friends, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure position” (II Peter 3:17).

We are living in a significant time of transition, not just within the culture, but within the Church. Examine what is being offered to you as truth. Consider the history and truth expressed in Scripture before you make life-altering decisions. The Church has been this way before. We must walk with our eyes wide open allowing both truth and history to illuminate our path or we will suffer the consequence of our error.