The Bible underscores the gravity of misrepresenting God, emphasizing the importance of truthfulness and fidelity in conveying His nature and commands. Misrepresentation can occur through false prophecy, incorrect teaching, or any distortion of God's character and will. This topic is addressed throughout Scripture, highlighting the severe consequences for those who lead others astray.

False Prophets and Teachers

The Old Testament sternly warns against false prophets who claim to speak for God but deliver messages He has not commanded. Deuteronomy 18:20 states, "But the prophet who presumes to speak a word in My name that I have not commanded him to speak, or who speaks in the name of other gods—that prophet must be put to death." This severe penalty underscores the seriousness with which God views the misrepresentation of His word.

In the New Testament, Jesus warns against false prophets in Matthew 7:15 : "Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves." This imagery highlights the deceptive nature of false teachers and the danger they pose to the spiritual well-being of believers.

Distorting the Gospel

The Apostle Paul addresses the issue of distorting the gospel in his letters. In Galatians 1:6-9 , he expresses astonishment that the Galatians are turning to a different gospel, which is no gospel at all. He writes, "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!" This strong language indicates the seriousness of altering the message of salvation through Christ.

Misrepresenting God's Character

Misrepresenting God's character is another form of distortion. In Exodus 34:6-7 , God reveals His nature to Moses: "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth, maintaining loving devotion to a thousand generations, forgiving iniquity, transgression, and sin." Any teaching or representation that contradicts these attributes misleads people about who God truly is.

Consequences of Misrepresentation

The Bible outlines dire consequences for those who misrepresent God. In Jeremiah 23:1-2 , God pronounces judgment on the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of His pasture: "Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of My pasture! declares the LORD. Therefore, this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says about the shepherds who tend My people: 'You have scattered My flock and driven them away, and you have not attended to them. Behold, I will attend to you for the evil of your deeds, declares the LORD.'"

James 3:1 also warns, "Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly." This admonition reflects the heightened responsibility of those who instruct others in the faith.

The Call to Faithfulness

Believers are called to faithfully represent God and His word. In 2 Timothy 2:15 , Paul exhorts Timothy, "Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth." This charge emphasizes the importance of diligence and accuracy in teaching and living out the truths of Scripture.

The seriousness of misrepresenting God is a recurring theme in the Bible, serving as a sobering reminder of the responsibility borne by those who speak and teach in His name.