A Note from Michael Gossett
The Call to Discernment in a Culture of Deception
According to the dictionary, discernment is the ability to judge well. However, there is more to it than being able to recognize the differences from one thing to the next. It is the ability to distinguish right from wrong. Sinclair Ferguson writes, “True discernment means not only distinguishing the right from the wrong; it means distinguishing the primary from the secondary, the essential from the indifferent, and the permanent from the transient.”[1] It seems that the world is on a steady decline not only in the use of the word but in the practice of the concept. Discernment seemingly has become a lost art of past generations. However, I would say that now more than ever we are in need of Christian discernment.
One of the most glaring issues of the world’s lack of discernment is the fall of absolute truth. Truth is now relative in varying degrees. The world has largely embraced this concept of truth, which is known as moral relativism. Simply put, it is the idea that there can be many truths and that it can be different from person to person. According to Barna Research (a study in 2020), only 44% of self-proclaimed Christians believe in absolute truth. The rest believe truth is subjective (or relative) and based on personal experience. Discernment and moral relativism, or subjective truth, cannot run parallel. One will always outpace the other.
Another issue facing discernment is the rise of emotionalism. This is the idea that emotions have become the highest authority in an individual’s life. If it makes me happy, then it must be right. If it makes me feel good, then it must be right. If it seems loving, then it must be right. If others are happy with me, then it must be right. These are all different examples of the way that we allow emotion to drive truth.
What we must realize, is that relativism and emotionalism are poor barometers to guide discernment. In turn, “Pastors” and “Teachers” of the Word have bowed down to the concepts that will produce followers of self rather than disciples of Jesus. This is problematic and should be very concerning. When popularity becomes the metric for spiritual success, discernment will continue to fall from the hearer’s view. This is why Paul warns Timothy about falling into the trap of tickling ears (2 Timothy 4:3). It is the job of the church (every true follower of Jesus) to protect the church from false doctrine, false teaching, and tickling ears which is done through the lens of Biblical discernment.
The Apostle John, writing to a church influenced by false teachers, issued a clear warning: “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see if they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1). The command is clear—examine, evaluate, and judge carefully who you allow to shape your faith.
Do not think for a moment that false teachers are not lurking around the church. There is no shortage of false teachers. With the rise of social media, self-proclaimed spiritual guides, and theological influencers, deception has never been more accessible. But how do we discern truth from error? How do we ensure that the voices we listen to are truly centered on God’s Word?
John provides us with three critical tests to help us identify false teachers: Judge their content, their character, and their commercial.
This seems wrong on the surface. I thought we were not supposed to judge others. If we are not to “judge” others, why is there fruit in the Christian life? People will know (judge) you are my disciple by the way you love one another. The truth is, judging should be used as a way of helping someone either know Christ or grow in Christ and the same judgment should be used for you. It is also a tool of discernment.
- Judge every teacher by their CONTENT
John tells us in 1 John 4:2-3, “Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh if from God, but every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God.” The content of a true teacher of the Word must be rooted in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
False teaching is not always blatant heresy; sometimes, it is a subtle departure from the gospel. In Deuteronomy 18:22, the Lord warns Israel that any prophet whose words do not come true has not spoken from God. Today, the proliferation of prosperity preachers, self-help spirituality, and human-centered theology often masks itself as Christianity. However, any message that diminishes Christ, denies His full divinity and humanity, or shifts the focus away from the sufficiency of His work is, at its core, false teaching.
The modern church is bombarded by ideologies that sound appealing—messages of self-empowerment, universal acceptance, and earthly success. But if the content lacks the Gospel of Jesus, it is of the world. John warns that such teachings originate from the spirit of the antichrist, which has been present since the first century and remains at work today.
A true gospel teacher will uphold the absolute authority of Scripture, affirm salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone, and proclaim the necessity of repentance. If these are missing, the message is not from God. As we would say in Georgia, “Run for the hills!”
- Judge every teacher by their CHARACTER
I read a story about a resident in northeast San Antonio who discovered two abandoned kittens. This resident is a dedicated animal welfare activist and attempted to bring them home to nurse them back to health. Believing they were Bengal kittens, she tried to feed them milk. So eagerly did the two kittens respond to the milk that they destroyed the feeding bottles she used to provide it. After enduring a few painful scratches along the way, this animal activist realized her initial assessment was incorrect and contacted the local Animal Control Service. It turns out the two kittens were wild bobcats. We would never (knowingly) bring bobcats into our home. I wouldn’t bring any kittens in the home, but especially bobcats. We would be supremely protective to make sure nothing like this ever happens. However, when it comes to teaching that we allow in the home, there are times that we are a little too relaxed. Although these “kittens” appeared to be one thing, there character finally revealed their true colors.
Jesus provides us with a test to keep the bobcats out. Matthew 7:16 says, “You will recognize them by their fruits.” A teacher’s character is just as important as their content. It is possible to teach sound theology but with a corrupt heart.
Throughout Scripture, false teachers are described as wolves in sheep’s clothing (Matthew 7:15), whitewashed tombs (Matthew 23:27), and ravenous men who exploit others for gain (2 Peter 2:1-3). The Pharisees, for example, knew Scripture extensively but used it to control and burden others rather than to lead them to the Lord.
A faithful teacher of God will exhibit humility, holiness, and a heart for service. They will obey Christ and bear the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). If a teacher’s life is marked by pride, moral compromise, or a lack of true godliness, beware.
- Judge every teacher by their COMMERCIAL
This may sound strange, but what this means is that what a teacher/preacher pushes most is what they want most. This can be clearly seen in either a subtle or bold obsession with self-promotion and material gain. Paul gives a stern warning against such behavior. 2 Corinthians 2:17 says, “We do not peddle the word of God for profit.” There have been many pastors and teachers who have turned ministry into a lucrative self-promoting business. We should steer clear of the teaching of that kind of preacher or teacher.
From prosperity preachers promising financial breakthrough in exchange for “offerings,” to self-proclaimed apostles selling access to spiritual secrets. These are all functions of a commercialized, consumer-driven Christianity, and it is increasing across the world.
I am reminded of the way Jesus thought of His purpose. Mark 1:38 says, “Let’s go on to the neighboring villages so that I may preach there too. This is why I have come.” Jesus was not concerned with fame, fortune, or followers on social media. His primary concern was for people to know the transforming truth of the good news. His message was focused on one thing: proclaiming and expanding the Kingdom of God.
One of the greatest dangers in the church today is the rise of celebrity Christianity, where preachers and influencers build platforms centered on themselves rather than Christ. When popularity becomes the measure of spiritual success, discernment takes a back seat. People in the church avoid confronting false teachings for fear of losing members. Individuals excuse theological errors in their favorite speakers because they like their style or it speaks to them.
We must be on guard by measuring success by numerical data alone. Storms and weeds grow quickly, but this is not how we are called to grow as a church or as individuals. Psalm chapter 1 gives a picture of an oak tree that is planted by the water. The oak tree takes time to grow. It is the idea of longsuffering. When a storm comes, the oak stays planted. When weeds grow quickly around it, the oak continues to grow in strength and steadiness. This is only accomplished by a steady but sure stream of the Word watering the tree day after day.
Practicing discernment requires:
- Prioritizing gospel-centered biblical literacy.
- Testing every teaching according to God’s Word, not culture.
- Rejecting the notion that fame is more important than faithfulness.
- Loving the truth more than our preferences or our comfort.
Discernment for us today is not optional. Instead, it is a clear command in Scripture. The lack of discernment in our lives produces weeds, thorns and thistles, but when we practice it, we will be like the tree planted by water. Let’s be oak trees that are firm and steady in the ways of Christ, even while the culture works in deception.
A Prayer for Today:
Lord, we know that the world is filled with competing voices that lead to deception and confusion. Help us to have discernment and wisdom in the midst of these things. Help us to love your Word and to abide in your Word over every other voice in our lives. Will you guard our hearts against the deception of the world. Fill us with your truth, guide us by your Word so that we may continue to grow in your likeness just like a tree planted by water. May our love for you be marked by a love for your Word over everything else in our lives. Help me to be the light and witness that you have called me to be. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
CALLING ALL MEN: GUYS’ NIGHT 2025!
Men, this is your night—a night of challenge, brotherhood, and real faith. On May 2 from 6:00-9:00 PM, we’re bringing together Dr. Robby Gallaty, and Tim Tebow for one EPIC night that will push you to grow as a man, leader, husband, father, and disciple of Jesus.
This one-night event is your chance to be challenged, sharpened, and strengthened in your walk with Christ. We’re talking bold truth, powerful testimonies, and real encouragement—plus some legit barbecue because, let’s be honest, no guys’ night is complete without it.
WHO’S IT FOR?
✔️ High school & college guys
✔️ Husbands & fathers
✔️ Grandfathers & mentors
✔️ Men who want more than just going through the motions
Cost is $25 per person
Bring your crew, grab your tickets, and get ready for a night that will fuel your faith and challenge you to step-up as the man God has called you to be.
Don’t wait. Don’t sit this one out. Step-up and be part of something bigger!
THIS SUNDAY: “True Repentance”
Are you just going through the motions of faith, or has your heart truly been transformed? This Sunday, we’ll dive into Luke 3:7-20, where John the Baptist confronts the religious crowd with a bold call to true repentance. He warns that faith isn’t about empty rituals or religious heritage—it’s about a heart fully surrendered to God. Too often, we settle for outward religion without inward transformation. This message is for all of us. Whether you’ve grown up in church or are searching for something real, Jesus is calling you to more than routine. He is calling you to a new life.
Join us this Sunday as we unpack what it means to turn from sin, walk in obedience, and experience the true, life-changing power of the gospel. Don’t miss this powerful message—come and hear how repentance isn’t about guilt but about grace, transformation, and hope in Christ!
This Sunday at 9:30 am or 11:00 am at our Tyler Campus, Español Campus (Crosswalk of Tyler Campus at 11:00 am only) or Flint Campus
Invite someone to join you, and let’s worship together!
You are loved and prayed for!
Michael Gossett
[1] https://learn.ligonier.org/articles/discernment-thinking-gods-thoughts