"Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared..." - 1 Timothy 4:1-2
The chapter goes on to describe the teachings of these false religious leaders who will appear in the last times. It specifically mentions two points: they will teach abstinence from certain foods and they will forbid marriage. The Greek Word that is translated “forbid” literally means to “prevent or stand in the way of” marriage.
Today we see false teachers in what were once Christian churches, teaching a confused view of human relationships that effectively redefines and destroys God’s institution of marriage and the family. It’s interesting to see that many of these same teachers also hold to a vegetarian or vegan doctrine borrowed from Hinduism that forbids the eating of meat.
The Lord’s Apostle was moved by the Holy Spirit 2,000 years ago to identify these two teachings as “doctrines of demons” and to say that those who teach them are “devoting themselves to deceitful spirits,” and that they are liars whose conscience has been seared so that it no longer responds to the call to repentance.
God’s Word will always be fulfilled. These teachers have departed from the Faith. What they are teaching is not Christianity, and the churches they lead into their demonic confusion become apostate organizations, masquerading as churches. Since they are not just confused but demonically confused, they will successfully lead many souls astray.
If you find yourself sitting in a church where these things are being taught, understand that God in His mercy warned you about them long ago. It’s time to get out and find another church, where the Word of God is still taught in truth and purity.
Father, in Your Word You have given us everything that pertains to life and godliness. You made the call to repentance and faith in Jesus so simple and clear. Your promise of forgiveness for His sake comforts my soul. Keep me close. Keep my church and my Pastor true to Your Word. Lead us through these last days until we see You face to face. Amen.
Pastor Dan Giles