Be cautious about whom you follow and what you allow to influence your thinking. Do not conform to this world, “for as a man thinks in his heart, so is he” (Prov. 23:7). “For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matt. 12:34). The heart instructs the mouth what to say; therefore, we need to understand that “life and death are in the power of the tongue” (Prov. 18:21). Will you follow someone who has the reputation of being a liar?
Evil comes from within; however, authority is given to Christ Followers to demolish arguments and presumptions set up against the knowledge of God (2 Cor. 10:5). We have been given what we need to discern the truth from deception. Faith and truth were the disciples’ weapons. Christians need to use the same weapons vigorously against what is not honorable and right.
Apostle John revealed this truth about a message he sent to the church. He said, "I wrote something to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to have first place among them, does not receive our authority" (3 Jn. 1:9, CSB). We know people who think they need to be in charge, have the last word, and are even willing to distort the truth to gain influence. Do not follow anyone whose primary interest is pleasing oneself and those like them. Why did Paul oppose Cephas to his face for being a hypocrite (Gal. 2:11-14)? What Cephas (Peter) did was destructive because other Jews joined him in his hypocrisy. There is always a danger when one is in a leadership position of leading others astray. Even if they are not good leaders, the threat still exists.
Those in positions of influence and authority must adhere to the Word of God and learn to “do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves” (Phil. 2:3). Be constantly aware of your behavior. Watch yourself, but it is vital to stay alert and be cautious of those who do not recognize authority. They create divisions and obstacles contrary to God’s Word.
Such people are not serving Christ, and it benefits everyone to heed John’s warning about Diotrephes and people like him. This is what John said: “When I come, I will report some of the things he is doing and the evil accusations he is making against us. Not only does he refuse to welcome the traveling teachers, but he also tells others not to help them. And when they do help, he puts them out of the church” (3 Jn. 1:10).
Can you imagine being fired for exercising your freedom of speech?
Followers of Christ, be careful who you follow.
We must have the courage to reject a divisive individual, especially one who actively opposes the Gospel Message of Jesus Christ. Be cautious about who you follow; do not condone evil, oppose and expose it!
Nettie Pennington is Associate Minister, Springfield MB Church
