Comment: False doctrines lead to tragic or fatal consequences.  In fulfilling his ministry of giving spiritual guidance to the children of God, John the Apostle instructed the believers not to show hospitality to false teachers.  They were to do nothing that would encourage the heretics in their propagation of falsehoods.  In addition, if the believers were to invite them in, such action would show that they were approving of what the false teachers said and did.  It may seem rude to turn people away, even if they are teaching heresy, but how much better it is to be faithful to God than merely courteous to people?  Apostle John is in the text for today condemning those who support false prophets and their teachings.  The fact is that a person who supports a false teacher in any way, shares in his wicked works.

The true Christian should always be vigilant, circumspect and wise as not to be carried away by “good words and fair speeches” with which the false teachers “deceive the hearts of the simple” some of whom see such “excellent speech” as proof of what they understand to be anointing (1 Corinthians 2:1; Romans 16:18).  To guard against false teachings, one should read the Scriptures diligently so as to measure every teaching through the yardstick of the word of God. “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” – 2 Timothy 2:15.