1️⃣ Introduction

• Genuine faith is based on the truth of God’s Word and the teachings of the apostles.
• When people depart from that doctrine, even with good intentions, believers’ hearts can be misled.
• Example: many modern religious movements and decisions from historical councils have altered essential teachings, confusing millions.

2️⃣ How Deviation Happens

1. Replacing the authority of God’s Word with human traditions
   • Matthew 15:9: “In vain they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.”
   • Councils often impose rules not found in the Bible, displacing God’s authority.
2. Creating dogmas and rituals without biblical basis
   • This generates confusion and drifts believers away from the simple truth of the Gospel.
   • Example: certain liturgical practices or hierarchies that exalt man instead of Christ.
3. Manipulation of faith through power and control
   • When teaching focuses on obeying the leader or movement rather than obeying Christ.
   • They supposedly teach following Christ, but secretly lead congregations with unnecessary burdens, games, worldly celebrations, human rituals, or activities that distract from true spiritual purpose.
   • They try to stimulate emotions instead of fostering a genuine encounter with the Holy Spirit, making the experience rely on feelings rather than God’s real work.
   • 2 Corinthians 11:13-15: false apostles and teachers masquerading as ministers of righteousness.

3️⃣ Consequences for Believers’ Faith

• Confusion about what is true versus tradition.
• Dependence on human leaders instead of spiritual discernment.
• Distance from the power of the Holy Spirit.
• Destruction of trust in God and His Word.

4️⃣ How to Protect Genuine Faith

1. Return to the Word and apostolic teaching
   • Acts 2:42: “And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.”
   • Prioritize clear biblical doctrine over human traditions.
2. Discernment and filling with the Holy Spirit
   • 1 John 4:1: “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.”
   • The Spirit guides us into truth and protects us from deception.
3. Avoid dependence on religious structures that divert from Christ
   • Genuine faith is personal and communal, but centered on God and His Word, not on rituals, games, stimulated emotions, or human leaders.

5️⃣ Conclusion

• Genuine faith stands firm only when grounded in the Word and the Holy Spirit.
• Councils, religious movements, or leaders may have influence, but the believer who perseveres in Christ will not be deceived.
• Obedience and spiritual discernment are key to maintaining freedom and the truth of the Gospel.
• Like the Berean disciples, we must receive teachings eagerly but examine the Scriptures daily to see if they are true (Acts 17:11). This protects our faith from errors and manipulation.