Paul's warning to the church is as relevant today as it was in Acts 20: false teachers can arise from outside the church, but they can also come from within.
In Lesson 128, Alan Smith continues the study of Acts 20 and Paul's farewell address to the elders at Ephesus. The message centers on Paul's charge to declare "all the counsel of God," protect the flock, and remain faithful to the complete gospel of Jesus Christ.
This teaching examines:
* Why the whole counsel of God helps guard believers against heresy
* The spiritual responsibility of church leaders and every believer
* Paul's warning about grievous wolves and distorted teaching
* The simplicity and sufficiency of Jesus Christ
* How religious legalism, Greek philosophy, pagan beliefs, and mysticism threatened the early church
* The rise of Gnosticism and its claim that salvation comes through secret spiritual knowledge
* Why spiritual maturity means becoming more like Jesus, not trying to become more spiritual through human effort
* The message of Colossians and the preeminence of Christ
The lesson also includes a brief history of Johannes Gutenberg and the Gutenberg Bible, connecting the work of printing Scripture with the call for God's Word to be pressed into our lives.
As you watch, consider whether your faith is centered on the finished work of Christ or influenced by teachings that add to His sufficiency. Study the Scriptures carefully, hold fast to the gospel, and learn to recognize teaching that draws attention away from Jesus.
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