Children are unaware of the dangers around them, and while that might seem preferable at first glance, they are still dangers. We first come to faith, to Christ, as a child; but we must not stay that way. Maturity is the aim and expectation of all who are in Christ. Remember, the Church is all those who are in Christ; He is building His Church. Being “more like Jesus” certainly includes discernment; He knew right from wrong

As we are being equipped to maturity, we must recognize and avoid (or defeat) three key dangers that threaten the Church:

1. The danger of false doctrine.

Every wind of doctrine; always agree with the latest and/or loudest; never thinking Biblically. Most people wonder: why does it matter? What difference does it make? Let’s use Lord’s Supper as an example: if Christ is re-sacrificed over and over again, then Scripture is wrong (it is finished; seated at right hand of God; once for all; etc.)

Fine, but isn’t doctrine just for pastors or scholars? Give me practical advice; save doctrine. Only way to put things in proper context is with proper doctrine. An example is: how should I treat others? Love, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, etc. But why? This is where doctrine matters: do you treat people politely to meet social expectation, or do you love them with the love of Christ; forgive them as Christ has forgiven you.

When we understand the right doctrine, that God is creator; humans are all made in His image; loved enough to send Christ to die for; etc. then our behavior will match up.

The result of false teaching is that we are “tossed to and fro”; battered by uncertainty, doubt, fear. So we must test everything against the Word of God. Study Word diligently (more than false teachings) in order to recognize counterfeits.

2. The danger of human cunning.

Personalities, charismas, can be deceiving. Sometimes people know they are peddling falsehood, other times they do not (blinded). Either way, if a person makes themselves the center of their teaching, or they claim they are the only conduit to God, it is a false religion.

That much is obvious; but human cunning can be even more deceitful. Even if message is genuine, is too much emphasis placed on person? Sometimes this cunning is from the person, other times from those who follow. Remember, even the crowds wanted to crown Jesus king before the proper time (see John).

We know: the ministry, the mission, is bigger than any one person: Christ is the head of His Church. This seems like common sense, but we get tied to personalities and individuals. We prefer one person over another (fine) and we subtly begin to create division (not fine). We should have a unique view of those called to gospel ministry: double-honor, judged harder, as seen in these texts:

1 Timothy 5:17-20 :: The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, “Do not muzzle the ox while it is treading out the grain,” and “The worker deserves his wages.” Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. Those who sin are to be rebuked publicly, so that the others may take warning.

Hebrews 13:17 :: Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.

James 3:1 :: Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.

We should recognize that they are specifically called of God to this task; not an easy thing. But we must not elevate them or put them on a pedestal: the gospel is greater than any one. Danger is being “carried about” so that when the messenger fails, the message is discredited. We have to test the message; then test the person delivering it; then test our hearts receiving it.

3. The danger of deceitful schemes.

Craftiness; designed to outwit us. Originating from Satan; mixed in with elements of truth (see: Eden). The devil prowls like a lion; looking for one to devour: lions have schemes; prey on weak, alone.

Most prevalent danger is convincing us we are ready when we are not; smarter than we are. Last week, Ethan held keys up to ignition slot; but that doesn’t mean he’s driving home today! Satan wants us to grow – just a little bit; then stop; stagnate.

We must cultivate habit of learning; student of the Word; mature into discernment. How to do this?

1. Be faithful in study; not just read, but ask God to teach you; open expecting to learn

2. Be alert; watch out for dangers; they are subtle and easy to miss if we are lazy; ignore at peril

3. Be careful; devil likes to deceive, then attack those alone and vulnerable

The good news is that Christ is building His Church and He has provided means of equipping us, so that we might grow and mature “attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (4:13)