Clues to identify Apostates

The term “apostasy” generally refers to the abandonment or renunciation of a religious faith. In the context of Christianity, apostasy refers to the rejection of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. It can also refer to the abandonment of the Christian faith altogether.

There are a number of warning signs that can help to identify whether or not a church is apostate. These include:

A Denial of the Deity of Jesus Christ:

One of the most basic beliefs of Christianity is that Jesus Christ is God incarnate. He is fully God and fully man. Any church that denies this foundational truth is apostate.

A Denial of the Bible as the Word of God:

Another key belief of Christianity is that the Bible is the inspired, infallible Word of God. It is our final authority on all matters of faith and practice. Any church that denies this is also apostate.

A Promotion of False Gospels:

There is only one Gospel – the Good News that Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). Any church that promotes a different gospel – such as the “prosperity gospel” – is apostate.

A Lack of Discernment:

Apostate churches often lack discernment, meaning they are not able to discern between truth and error. This can be seen in their willingness to accept false teachers and false doctrines.

A Pattern of Sinful Behavior:

Apostate churches are often characterized by sinful behavior, such as sexual immorality, greed, and dishonesty. This is in contrast to the holy lifestyle that true believers are called to live (1 Peter 1:15-16).

A Focus on Worldliness:

Apostate churches often have a worldly focus, rather than a heavenly one. They may emphasis entertainment and “feel-good” messages, rather than sound doctrine. They may also lord their earthly riches and position over those who are less fortunate.

These are just a few of the warning signs that can help to identify an apostate church. As believers, we need to be on guard against such things. We should also be ready to lovingly confront those who are promoting false gospels and false doctrine.

You can find plenty of articles on the internet about the tell-tale signs of an apostate church. But how can you be sure that the church you are attending is not apostate? Here are 10 ways to verify that your church is not apostate:

1. The Bible is central.

If the Bible is not central in your church, it is a red flag that your church may be apostate. The Bible should be preached from every week and taught in every class. Every decision made by the church should be based on Scripture.

2. The gospel is clear.

If your church is not clear about the gospel, it is a sign that your church may be apostate. The gospel is the good news that Jesus Christ died for our sins and rose again, offering forgiveness and eternal life to all who believe in Him.

3. Jesus Christ is exalted.

If Jesus is not exalted as Lord and Savior in your church, it is a sign that your church may be apostate. Jesus should be preached about and worshiped every week. His name should be lifted up high, not just in words, but in attitudes and action as well.

4. The Holy Spirit is present.

If the Holy Spirit is not present in your church, it is a sign that your church may be apostate. The Holy Spirit should be visible in the lives of believers, in the way they worship and serve. There should be an atmosphere of joy, peace, and love in your church that can only come from the Holy Spirit.

5. Sound doctrine is taught.

If false doctrine is taught in your church, it is a sign that your church may be apostate. The Bible should be taught in its entirety, without exception or distortion. Doctrines such as the Trinity, the nature of God, and salvation by grace should be emphasized.

6. There is a commitment to holiness.

If your church is not committed to holiness, it is a sign that your church may be apostate. Believers should be striving to live lives that are pleasing to God, in thought, word, and deed. Sin should not be tolerated, but should be confronted and dealt with in a biblical manner.

7. Discipleship is a priority.

If your church does not prioritize discipleship, it is a sign that your church may be apostate. Discipleship is not a program or a class, but a lifestyle. It should be evident in the way that believers interact with each other and with those outside the faith.

8. The lost are evangelized.

If your church is not evangelizing the lost, it is a sign that your church may be apostate. The Great Commission should be a priority, and every believer should be involved in sharing the gospel with those who are lost.

9. The needy are cared for.

If your church is not caring for the needy, it is a sign that your church may be apostate. The Bible is clear that we are to care for the widow, the orphan, and the foreigner. This should be evident in the way your church uses its resources.

10. The church is growing.

If your church is not growing, it is a sign that your church may be apostate. The church should be constantly reaching out with the gospel, making disciples, and baptizing new believers. Growth should be evident in every area of the church.