I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.

Romans 16:17-18

Yesterday I listened in on a conversation on cults. The doctor who brought up the topic seemed surprised that anyone could be drawn into such a culture. Is it possible to be so easily deceived? 

Sure. I’ve seen lots of people be deceived and today most of our culture is being lured into a variety of false beliefs, including some of these doctors. 

Few would ever willingly sign up for a cult, right? Whether you’re a follower of a man or if you pledge your allegiance to The Science or if like one doctor I know, who now lives his life as a trans woman, we are all susceptible to the Lie. 

One of the most important ways Paul expressed his love within his letters to the first century believers was in his constant warning of those who might lead the people away from the central truths of the Gospel. 

Here he tells them to be on the look out for false teachers. Anyone who teaches another way to God or adds to the gospel of faith in Christ is a false teacher no matter how smooth their words may sound. 

Don’t be naive and deceived. Be a lie detector. Know the truth and live it out daily.