1 Timothy 4:1 -- Beware of being deceived in the "later times"

To catch up on our adventure through 1 Timothy, click here and read from the bottom post up.

1 Timothy 4:1 (NIV):

"The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons."

This verse was applicable not only in Paul's day but also it is applicable to our day.

"The Spirit clearly says" refers to the teaching of:

1. The Lord (see Mark 13:21-23)
2. The other apostles (see 2 Peter 3:3-18)
3. Paul himself (see Acts 20:28-31; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12)

The phrase "in later times" is the equivalent of "in the last days" (as in 2 Timothy 3:1) and refers to a broad period of time basically from Christ's resurrection until His return.

We see in this verse some of the goals that Satan has for all believers:

1. Satan wants believers to "abandon the faith."
2. Satan wants believers to "follow":
   • "deceiving spirits"
   • "things taught by demons"

(This verse refers back to 1 Timothy 1:19.)

These challenges to believers tend to come not in typical demon attire, but in the form of some unscrupulous Christian leaders. Sometimes they are people on TV looking for a buck, but sometimes they are leaders in the local church.

The only ways to be vigilant against such aberrant teaching is to study the Word for yourself (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV) and to ask God for discernment.

Actually, there is one more way: Ask God to make Himself and His Word "enough" for you in your heart. My experience has been that false teaching takes root in the heart that always wants "more." Usually they have not grown deep in the Word of God, but their roots are shallow and they seek for more. They are dissatisfied with church and with God.

There is a righteous hunger for more of God that will result in going deeper in the Word and in prayer. But there is also a hunger that wants to short-circuit these disciplines and wants experience on top of experience. Beware!