The Fate of False Teachers
Those who corrupt families, the Church, or follow false doctrine will suffer severe consequences.
Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the severe consequences of corrupting the Church of Christ, comparing it to corrupting human families but with far greater punishment. He warns against disregarding the doctrine of Jesus and following false teachings, highlighting the importance of staying true to the truth. Ignatius questions the compatibility of light with darkness, Christ with Belial, and believers with unbelievers, stressing the need for believers to uphold righteousness and reject falsehood.
Text
Do not err, my brethren. Those that corrupt families shall not inherit the kingdom of God. And if those that corrupt mere human families are condemned to death, how much more shall those suffer everlasting punishment who endeavour to corrupt the Church of Christ, for which the Lord Jesus, the only-begotten Son of God, endured the cross, and submitted to death! Whosoever, "being waxen fat," and "become gross," sets at nought His doctrine, shall go into hell.
In like manner, every one that has received from God the power of distinguishing, and yet follows an unskilful shepherd, and receives a false opinion for the truth, shall be punished. "What communion hath light with darkness? or Christ with Belial?
Or what portion hath he that believeth with an infidel? or the temple of God with idols? " And in like manner say I, what communion hath truth with falsehood? or righteousness with unrighteousness? or true doctrine with that which is false?
Sermon Outline
- I points: - The Condemnation of False Teachers - The Severity of Their Punishment
- II points: - The Dangers of Following False Doctrine - The Importance of Discernment
- III points: - The Incompatibility of Truth and Falsehood - The Consequences of Embracing Falsehood
Key Quotes
“What communion hath light with darkness? or Christ with Belial?” — Ignatius of Antioch
“Or what portion hath he that believeth with an infidel? or the temple of God with idols?” — Ignatius of Antioch
“What communion hath truth with falsehood? or righteousness with unrighteousness? or true doctrine with that which is false?” — Ignatius of Antioch
Application Points
- Be discerning and careful in choosing the teachers and doctrine you follow.
- The consequences of following false doctrine are severe and eternal.
- The Church of Christ must be protected from those who would corrupt it.