12 Bible Verses About False Teachers

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
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Bible verses about false teachers

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about false teachers:

1. Matthew 7:15 – “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”
2. 2 Peter 2:1 – “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.”
3. 1 John 4:1 – “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”
4. 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 – “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.”
5. Galatians 1:6-9 – “I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.”
6. 2 Timothy 4:3-4 – “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”

7. Titus 1:10-11 – “For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre’s sake.”
8. 2 Peter 2:3 – “And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.”
9. Jude 1:4 – “For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.”
10. 1 Timothy 4:1-2 – “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron.”
11. Colossians 2:8 – “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.”
12. 2 John 1:7-11 – “For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.”

What does the bible say about false teachers?

The Bible warns against false teachers who distort the truth and lead people astray.

It emphasizes the importance of discerning false teachings and holding fast to the true teachings of God.

False teachers are described as deceptive, destructive, and motivated by greed or personal gain.

Believers are encouraged to test all teachings against the word of God and to avoid being swayed by false doctrines.

The consequences of following false teachers are severe, as they can lead people away from salvation and into spiritual darkness.

Ultimately, the Bible teaches that false teachers will be judged by God for their actions.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about false teachers?

1. 2 Peter 2 – This chapter warns about false teachers who will introduce destructive heresies and exploit believers for their own gain. It emphasizes the consequences of following false teachings and the importance of discerning true from false teachings.

2. Jude – This chapter also addresses false teachers who have infiltrated the church and warns believers to contend for the faith and be on guard against deception. It emphasizes the need to hold fast to the teachings of the apostles and to reject false teachings.

3. Matthew 7 – In this chapter, Jesus warns about false prophets who come in sheep’s clothing but are actually ravenous wolves. He emphasizes the importance of discerning true from false prophets by their fruits and warns about the consequences of following false teachings.

These chapters are relevant to learning about false teachers because they provide warnings and guidance on how to identify and deal with false teachings within the church. They emphasize the importance of discernment, holding fast to true teachings, and being on guard against deception.

Ideas and concepts related to false teachers that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.’

1. Deception: In the Bible, false teachers are often associated with deception, as they lead people astray with their false teachings and misleading messages. They use cunning tactics to manipulate and deceive others for their own gain.

2. False prophets: The concept of false prophets is closely related to false teachers, as both involve individuals who claim to speak on behalf of God but are actually spreading lies and falsehoods. The Bible warns against false prophets and teaches believers to discern the truth from deception.

3. Wolves in sheep’s clothing: This metaphor is used in the Bible to describe false teachers who appear to be harmless or even beneficial, but are actually dangerous and destructive. Just as a wolf in sheep’s clothing can deceive and harm the flock, false teachers can lead believers astray and cause harm to their faith.

4. Testing the spirits: The Bible instructs believers to test the spirits to discern whether a teacher is speaking the truth or spreading falsehoods. By comparing teachings with the Word of God and seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit, believers can identify false teachers and avoid being led astray.

Overall, these concepts related to false teachers in the Bible emphasize the importance of discernment, wisdom, and vigilance in identifying and avoiding those who seek to deceive and mislead others in matters of faith. Believers are encouraged to stay grounded in the truth of God’s Word and to be wary of those who distort or manipulate it for their own purposes.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.