How to Respond to False Doctrine

[Greg Merrill]

Imagine you are reading a post on CF (Not this one, ), and you start reading some strange stuff, stuff that you have never read in the Bible. It may have a nice sound to it, but it just doesn't seem quite right. It might even be "alluring" or looking like an appealing bait, or appetizer. Then you recognize it. You can almost hear the hiss of the serpent in the Garden of Eden. You know now that this is not the voice of the Spirit, or of Jesus (John 10:27). You could easily just stop reading, and move on to another post, or something else, and that might be the appropriate action for some. But these words on this post that is just not quite right, or no where close to right is still there for others to read.
It reminds me of years ago, while working as a security supervisor at a hotel, of occasionally coming across pornographic magazines left in the hallways. Now I could be tempted to look at them, or I could ignore them, or I could just throw them away. But then others might still find them and fall for/to their destructiveness. As a Christian I developed a plan for finding them in the future. "Find it, fold it, and fling it." Find it, and don't look at the cover and be enticed by that, and then want to see more. NO!!! Fold that magazine in half immediately so as not to see the cover. Then don't just throw it away for someone else to find. Take it to the trash compactor and fling it all the way to the back, and push the button to move it to a place where it will become irretrievable (at least by me and others in the hotel.) Now not everyone has access to a trash compactor, but come up with a similar plan for dealing with your own temptations, something that is practical, workable, and effective.
So when we find posts on this website, posts maybe we don't think we necessarily should REPORT, how should we respond? Argue, debate, teach,... ? I would like to hear from you.

 

[introverteen]

Report is my first port of call.
If the false teaching is by an identified male I leave it and hope an elder or other male will rebuke and correct.
If the false teaching is by an unidentified gender or female I might rebuke/correct but more often I just go through the comments agreeing or liking correct teaching replies.

 

[yeshuaslavejeff]

Now I could be tempted to look at them, or I could ignore them, or I could just throw them away. But then others might still find them and fall for/to their destructiveness.

I would like to hear from you.

I don't see in the near future any workable solution.
It sometimes takes ten minutes or more looking at titles of threads, then sometimes OPs or later posts,
to find a post that is in line with Scripture, or a question about Scripture or seeking a good answer.

So many are directly contrary to all Scripture - worse than pronorgraffy(sic)...
and
no one has (apparently ) come up with a way to improve this....

In fact, several years ago, I mentioned this same thing to moderators here or on another forum,
and all they said was stop replying to bad threads, don't even try -
even "we moderators" are overwhelmed and cannot handle all of them -
no one can handle them, there are so many.

 

[frienden thalord]

I do all to correct , so as anyone else who comes can see its false
and then see the proof.
I do this for the sake of not just the poster. But anyone else .
I see it as dangerous , even a little leaven can destroy much.
so I just correct. I don't report due to my first goal is to let the poster
know its false, and that perhaps in time I hope they will hear.
I have never been to a site where one can report.
However I can definitely see the need for it . if the poster
keeps on posting falsehoods. they aint hearing and to me that means
danger for anyone else.
I care for the welfare of the others, even the welfare of the one posting.
but most of all the LOVE of the truth.
and by the LOVE of the truth, that shows me HOW to love GOD and man.

 

[frienden thalord]

for the love of GOD is shed abroad on our hearts by the HOLY GHOST
praise the LORD. okay I will be quiet now.

 

[FutureAndAHope]

I would say gently talk to the poster, letting them know why their views are wrong. Not be abusive in speech as that kind of thing is ignored.

Some months ago I feel into deception, and started to believe some things that were wrong. The surprising thing to me was that no one took the time to tell me why I was wrong. Friends and people around me, just let me go. I wish people had have taken the time to correct me, as it would have helped me to see that I was wrong, and saved me some embarrassment in the process.

I am not worried about it however as God was able to teach me some things through it. Mainly to be careful what I listen to

 

[friend of]

If this is about that blog post of mine, you're are correct, it was wrong of me. I've now removed it. I believe I was compelled to create a blog today specifically for your rebuke. Thank you for that and please know that it is not my intention to leaven. You've helped me realize something very important today about an old ingrained way of thinking.

 

[Hidden In Him]

So when we find posts on this website, posts maybe we don't think we necessarily should REPORT, how should we respond? Argue, debate, teach,... ? I would like to hear from you.

In fact, several years ago, I mentioned this same thing to moderators here or on another forum, and all they said was stop replying to bad threads, don't even try -

I ran into this exact situation recently. There is a brother on this Forum who fits this description in nearly everything he posts. His teachings are from the Serpent, yet so subtle and so seemingly backed up by the word that few notice what he is doing. What's worse is that this brother, when you try to corner him on a false interpretation, which will often require dissecting his posts through accurate interpretation of the Greek, will disqualify any such references claiming that the KJV translation supersedes all Greek analysis. Thus he consistently evades all debate on his arguments, makes you look "inept" because you can't prove him wrong through "the Bible," and goes immediately back to spewing heresy even further.

I finally lost it with this man on a thread several days ago, and took to attacking his character since there was no point even trying to deal with him from a theological perspective. And because I basically went after him with an axe, eventually mods shot the thread down and notified me privately that those two posts where I went after the guy were in violation of site policies. I had a civil and decent enough conversation with the mod, but it ended pretty much where Jeff's did: "All they said was stop replying to bad threads, don't even try." Actually, he told me to put a block on the person so that I would never see his posts again. I said, "That solves my problem, but what about everybody else who is reading and will be corrupted by his posts?" I then offered the solution that the Lord brought to me, and he said "Sounds good to me."

It is related to these two responses:

I do all to correct, so as anyone else who comes can see its false and then see the proof. I do this for the sake of not just the poster. But anyone else. I see it as dangerous , even a little leaven can destroy much. So I just correct.

I would say gently talk to the poster, letting them know why their views are wrong. Not be abusive in speech as that kind of thing is ignored.

As much as the guy's posts and arguments get under my skin, and as blockheaded as he is, to simply ignore him would be a grave sin. So I have determined I am going to go back to my normal course of action with those who post falsehoods, albeit with a renewed determination to be ready to refute, and refute, and refute, and refute, like a machine, but in a Spirit of love. Normally I can deal with someone in a post or two. This guy I am practically going to have to be resigned to simply talking passed him to everyone else, so as to protect them. As for him personally, I will have to pray for him, and the Lord actually gave me a prophetic dream concerning him, which softens my heart to him somewhat now that I know the interpretation....

The Lord is now speaking to me about what may be the real solution is in such instances: The power of God, i.e. praying that the Lord uses you and/or others to break through the stubbornness of heart in such an individual, similar to how a word of knowledge about a sinner's past or present can cause them to really stop and take you seriously.

This is no easy business. It will require operating in spiritual gifts. Like I said, mine are in interpretation of dreams and visions, and this may help him a little. I'm thinking of telling him about the dream publicly, although I suppose this too may get me red flagged by the moderators if they notice it. But not before I would have a chance to potentially reach him for Christ. But one way or another, given that there is no one to take true spiritual authority over the situation here as in a church context, it will take the power of God to sort it all out, eventually.

That's my current take on the matter, but I am open to suggestions.

 

[frienden thalord]

I ran into this exact situation recently. There is a brother on this Forum who fits this description in nearly everything he posts. His teachings are from the Serpent, yet so subtle and so seemingly backed up by the word that few notice what he is doing. What's worse is that this brother, when you try to corner him on a false interpretation, which will often require dissecting his posts through accurate interpretation of the Greek, will disqualify any such references claiming that the KJV translation supersedes all Greek analysis. Thus he consistently evades all debate on his arguments, makes you look "inept" because you can prove him wrong through "the Bible," and goes immediately back to spewing heresy even further.

I finally lost it with this man on a thread several days ago, and took to attacking his character since there was no point even trying to deal with him from a theological perspective. And because I basically went after him with an axe, eventually mods shot the thread down and notified me privately that those two posts where I went after the guy were in violation of site policies. I had a civil and decent enough conversation with the mod, but it ended pretty much where Jeff's did: "All they said was stop replying to bad threads, don't even try." Actually, he told me to put a block on the person so that I would never see his posts again. I said, "That solves my problem, but what about everybody else who is reading and will be corrupted by his posts?" I then offered the solution that the Lord brought to me, and he said "Sounds good to me."

It is related to these two responses:



As much as the guy's posts and arguments get under my skin, and as blockheaded as he is, to simply ignore him would be a grave sin. So I have determined I am going to go back to my normal course of action with those who post falsehoods, albeit with a renewed determination to be ready to refute, and refute, and refute, and refute, like a machine, but in a Spirit of love. Normally I can deal with someone in a post or two. This guy I am practically going to have to be resigned to simply talking passed him to everyone else, so as to protect them. As for him personally, I will have to pray for him, and the Lord actually gave me a prophetic dream concerning him, which softens my heart to him somewhat now that I know the interpretation....

The Lord is now speaking to me about what may be the real solution is in such instances: The power of God, i.e. praying that the Lord uses you and/or others to break through the stubbornness of heart in such an individual, similar to how a word of knowledge about a sinner's past or present can cause them to really stop and take you seriously.

This is no easy business. It will require operating in spiritual gifts. Like I said, mine are in interpretation of dreams and visions, and this may help him a little. I'm thinking of telling him about the dream publicly, although I suppose this too may get me red flagged by the moderators if they notice it. But not before I would have a chance to potentially reach him for Christ. But one way or another, given that there is no one to take true spiritual authority over the situation here as in a church context, it will take the power of God to sort it all out, eventually.

That's my current take on the matter, but I am open to suggestions.

Then lets do the pattern JESUS said............if he wont hear
you take two or more witnesses so as every word can be tested .
I will go with you and help. I will first need to go read the posts
so I can ascertain as well.
if we do this the way JESUS said, we can I believe hopefully get this fixed.
but since I don't know what was said , just email me a private message
and show me what posts it was on, so I can be fair to all involved.
to make sure their are not errors on both parts
and this way we can help this person.
but since we don't want to make an example of him in front on everone.
just tell me privately what sites to go look at.

 

[Hidden In Him]

Then lets do the pattern JESUS said............if he wont hear
you take two or more witnesses so as every word can be tested .
I will go with you and help. I will first need to go read the posts
so I can ascertain as well.
if we do this the way JESUS said, we can I believe hopefully get this fixed.
but since I don't know what was said , just email me a private message
and show me what posts it was on, so I can be fair to all involved.

This is excellent, however the only disappointment here would be that the enemy appears to be already one step ahead of you. This particular brother appears to have a partner in crime, a friend who agrees with everything he says, and not only posts to support him, but votes a "Like" on everything he says. So it may take a full on superiority of numbers, and then they may just take the position of "Us against the world, for Christ" attitude. So unless he is without his help on a particular day, I'd say my strategy may have to be the better one.

 

[yeshuaslavejeff]

That's my current take on the matter, but I am open to suggestions.

..... "Pray"
I believe this is already your main strength. Same for all in or seeking CHRIST JESUS.

===================================

Actually, he told me to put a block on the person so that I would never see his posts again. I said, "That solves my problem, but what about everybody else who is reading and will be corrupted by his posts?"

A lot of Christians I met / talked with/ in person or online simply don't come back - it is too much like Athens where idolatry was widespread and where even the Apostle Paul and the ekklesia left after a season of proclaiming the GOSPEL OF JESUS in full power .
Some even visit only for an hour , maybe for a week or 3 weeks, then leave,
disappointed at least, but troubled/ loss of peace/ every time they visit. Some were brought to tears on some forums/ chat rooms, seeing the behavior that happened every time they visited even quietly (just watching).

=========================================

As much as the guy's posts and arguments get under my skin, and as blockheaded as he is, to simply ignore him would be a grave sin.

Maybe.
But the time it would take to reply to all such threads and posts is beyond
doable - so just as Jesus Himself could not do many miracles in some towns He went to in person, because of the unbelief there,
sometimes we find that today in person and online, and deal with what the Father says to deal with. We do not have the choice as they did in Acts or Ephesians or Philippians, et al, to keep repeat offenders from posting again, so all we can do might be put them on ignore and go on. This has resulted for several members in at least manageable sessions in the time available, and finding others who agree in doctrine, in spirit, in JESUS, in life, and in truth. (finding others is a great blessing and may even be a reward in standing for the truth; many more are watching than are posting, and that is good, God Willing) ....

 

[frienden thalord]

This is excellent, however the only disappointment here would be that the enemy appears to be already one step ahead of you. This particular brother appears to have a partner in crime, a friend who agrees with everything he says, and not only posts to support him, but votes a "Like" on everything he says. So it may take a full on superiority of numbers, and then they may just take the position of "Us against the world, for Christ" attitude. So unless he is without his help on a particular day, I'd say my strategy may have to be the better one.

Just send me a private message. the LORD will give whatever is needed.
whether one hears or not but the LORD will give the right words.

 

[Winken]

You and he can certainly engage each other in conversation mode.

 

[Hidden In Him]

A lot of Christians I met / talked with/ in person or online simply don't come back - it is too much like Athens where idolatry was widespread and where even the Apostle Paul and the ekklesia left after a season of proclaiming the GOSPEL OF JESUS in full power .
Some even visit only for an hour , maybe for a week or 3 weeks, then leave,
disappointed at least, but troubled/ loss of peace/ every time they visit. Some were brought to tears on some forums/ chat rooms, seeing the behavior that happened every time they visited even quietly (just watching).

Yeah, it's a war. I recall thinking at the time that there were new members joining that thread at the time, and one Christian girl in particular who was only 16 and seemed very excited to have found us. I kept thinking, "What a day to join and see this going on." But it's the reality. Christianity on the battlefield isn't pretty at all. Wouldn't take long to find examples in Christ's ministry where He really had to address the Pharisees and scribes in some rather brutal ways, but albiet in a Spirit of love, simply warning them.

But the time it would take to reply to all such threads and posts is beyond
doable - so just as Jesus Himself could not do many miracles in some towns He went to in person, because of the unbelief there,
sometimes we find that today in person and online, and deal with what the Father says to deal with.

Gonna give you a "Winner Chicken Dinner" over this right here. This guy is a posting machine and a thread dominator. I can't dedicate my life to following this guy around day and night, so in the end it will be up to others to use discernment themselves, so as not to be led astray. God will lead them to the truth if they are being responsible in listening for His voice.

Thank you, brother.

 

[Hidden In Him]

Just send me a private message. the LORD will give whatever is needed.
whether one hears or not but the LORD will give the right words.

If the Lord reminds me, I will certainly do so, Frienden. Certainly some help and unified efforts in such situations could never hurt.

 

[Swan7]

Easy. What does the Holy Spirit say to you, specifically. Obeying God is always the unmistakable choice.

 

[frienden thalord]

You and he can certainly engage each other in conversation mode.

Wirklich mein freund.

 

[yeshuaslavejeff]

Easy. What does the Holy Spirit say to you, specifically. Obeying God is always the unmistakable choice.

Since 1991, millions of "believers" have been clearly and obviously deceived and led totally astray by that "unmistakable choice" / the so-called "voice of " the holy Spirit they thought or were told they heard.

Thousands of fellowships have observed this, many of them tragically broken because of that.

There is online a name for the deceptive spirit , whether it is an accurate name or not I don't know and have not searched out or sought,
but it is basically demonic deception, accepted by / because of feelings and emotions and false teachers and false prophets in charge of millions who are listening to them and trusting them and sending them billions of dollars, or millions of dollars anyway....

 

[Winken]

Wirklich mein freund.

Ich habe dein CF Name gemerkt vor paar Tage.

 

[Hidden In Him]

Easy. What does the Holy Spirit say to you, specifically. Obeying God is always the unmistakable choice.

Ugh... The answer for everything. So simple, yet so hard to remember sometimes.