Topical Encyclopedia Encouragement in error refers to the act of supporting or affirming someone in beliefs or actions that are contrary to biblical truth. This concept is addressed in various passages throughout Scripture, highlighting the importance of discernment and the dangers of leading others astray.Biblical Warnings Against Encouragement in Error The Bible provides numerous warnings against encouraging others in falsehood or sin. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul admonishes believers to be vigilant against false teachings. In 2 Timothy 4:3-4 , Paul writes, "For the time will come when men will not tolerate sound doctrine, but with itching ears they will gather around themselves teachers to suit their own desires. So they will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths." Similarly, in Galatians 1:6-9 , Paul expresses astonishment that the Galatians are turning to a different gospel, which is no gospel at all. He warns, "But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be under a curse!" Old Testament Examples The Old Testament also provides examples of encouragement in error. In 1 Kings 22, the prophet Micaiah stands alone in speaking the truth to King Ahab, while 400 other prophets encourage the king in his erroneous plans. Micaiah's steadfastness in truth, despite opposition, serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to God's word. In Jeremiah 23:16 , the Lord warns, "This is what the LORD of Hosts says: 'Do not listen to the words of the prophets who prophesy to you. They are filling you with false hopes. They speak visions from their own minds, not from the mouth of the LORD.'" The Role of Discernment Discernment is crucial in avoiding encouragement in error. Believers are called to test everything against Scripture. In 1 John 4:1 , it is written, "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world." The Bereans are commended in Acts 17:11 for their discernment: "Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true." The Responsibility of Believers Believers have a responsibility to encourage one another in truth and righteousness. Hebrews 10:24-25 exhorts, "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." In Ephesians 4:15 , Paul instructs, "Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ Himself, who is the head." Consequences of Encouragement in Error Encouraging others in error can lead to spiritual harm and separation from God. James 5:19-20 highlights the importance of turning a sinner from error: "My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, consider this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and cover over a multitude of sins." The Bible consistently emphasizes the need for truth, discernment, and the rejection of falsehood, underscoring the grave responsibility of believers to avoid encouraging others in error. |