How are Christians able to identify false teachings and false religions that are disguised as the truth?

Question

Satan and his demons masquerade as “angels of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14), and his ministers masquerade as servants of righteousness (2 Corinthians 11:15).

Answer 1

By backing the message up with the Bible. Some cults have their own translations or holy books that they hold more important than the Holy Bible

Answer 2

They can't, because all religions are false and there is no such thing as a demon or satan.

Answer 3

Hello,

1) To me the simplest way is through historical knowledge. Few people I know who got caught up in such cults never bothered to do any research on the background of the particular leader let alone read critiques on the sect from some of the other main stream churches.

2) As Jesus mentioned, look at the fruit of their works. He said for example, he who uses the sword shall die by the sword so when that cult in Waco started storing and stock piling assault rifles and other military ordinance, a red flag should have gone up.

Cheers,

Michael Kelly

Answer 4

   The Scriptures  tells  us  to  check  the  Spirit!  The  Spirit  BEARS  Witness....." A  genuine Born-again Child Of God  confesses  JESUS AS  GOD"....Amen.

Answer 5

when I pray I always ask the Lord to help me to know his truth and only his truth,

now I am not claiming that I know everything but I believe he lets me know when someone is not speaking the truth.

Answer 6

When you constantly surround yourself with the word of God and pray you tend to be able to recognize, in your surroundings, when something is not of God. When you have that type of relationship with God you just know.

Answer 7

they aren't, which is why they're christians

Answer 8

We must read His word, the Bible.  

We must funnel everything through the scriptures.

Answer 9

Aren't all religions disguised as the truth?

Answer 10

I think that is what a magisterium is for.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magisterium

kind of outlines the hierarchy of a church-type organization.

Answer 11

The three things.

Everything is confirmed three times.

From random but viable sources.

And for Satan, no matter how good it seems, the message from that guy will totally depress you and put you under for a good two weeks.

Answer 12

it said by Jesus Christ in the bible..

"False christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect" (Matthew 24:24).

All of us need to be wary and watchful. We must examine the fruits of all those who claim to represent God in the way they live and the doctrines they teach. Moreover, as time goes on, ever more pretenders will arise, however sincere they may be. And finally, bear in mind that the greatest period of deception ever is just ahead of us. "See," Jesus said, "I have told you beforehand" (verse 25).

All false prophets have some truth. Satan himself uses the Bible. Matthew 4:6. Many false prophets will say Jesus is the Christ. Many will be very successful in building great churches and religious works. The most successful false prophets are intense, talented men who fully believe in what they are doing. They are inspired by the power of darkness and think it is God. Only the elect of God can tell the difference. Matthew 24:24.

We shall believe John 14:6 "I am the way,the truth and the life,no one will go to my father except thru me."

God Bless You.

Answer 13

The only real way is the Holy Spirit. The Anointing & the Spirit of Truth who leads us into all Truth.  Gods Truth.

Also that the Holy Spirit teaches us comparing spiritual with spiritual. And also washes us in Gods Word. So verses come to mind at the right time.  So? God always confirms a true prophetic Word from the Lord, if it is important to me.  By stirring Gods gift in me.  That would be a stir of confirmation.

Answer 14

Does having garlic around your neck help? Oh no it doesn't...that's a different myth to scare little children (and gullible adults).

Answer 15

It is the Holy Spirit that reveals to us what is Truth and false truth.  As long as we are open to His teaching, submitting ourselves and humbling ourselves, we will never be led astray for long.