Category: counsel

Tuesday, August 22, 2023

“Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple” (Romans 16:17,18 KJV).

Let us analyze these “good words and fair speeches.”

When lost Israel persecuted the Apostle Paul in latter Acts, these unsaved Jewish religious leaders hired a professional speechmaker, Tertullus, to represent them and misrepresent Paul in a Roman court of law! Observe Acts chapter 24: “[1] And after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul. [2] And when he was called forth, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying, Seeing that by thee we enjoy great quietness, and that very worthy deeds are done unto this nation by thy providence, [3] We accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness. [4] Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few words.”

Tertullus’ oration or speech before the Roman Governor of Judaea, Antonius Felix, was designed to flatter this politician, to make him feel good about himself. With lost Israel’s representative praising the judge, the judge would be more inclined to conduct Paul’s trial in lost Israel’s favor. Tertullus’ opening argument was not against Paul but rather in support of Felix. Basically, Felix was commended for the peace and prosperity he gave Israel in the land of Palestine, how Israel was so appreciative of his efforts, and how they did not want to waste his precious time with trivial matters (what irony!!!). Tertullus declared how he could go on and on and on worshipping Felix, but he would not try his patience and rather asked for just a few more moments so he could blame Paul (see verses 5-8).

It is significant, however, that historians report that Felix was cruel, oppressive, and corrupt (cf. the bribe he wanted from Paul in verse 26). Tertullus’ compliments of Felix were overwhelmingly baseless—utter fabrications or downright lies (not including his extensive false testimony against Paul!). These “good words” and this “fair speech” manipulated Felix to mistreat Paul….

Monday, August 21, 2023

“Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple” (Romans 16:17,18 KJV).

Let us analyze these “good words and fair speeches.”

Dear friends, we must come to terms with a dreadful fact. False teachers do not announce how their ministries lead to destruction. Not one of them will preface their remarks with, “I am about to lie to you,” or “I am soon to lead you to eternal ruin,” or “I will ensure you stay in spiritual kindergarten,” or anything close to that effect. No, rather, they sound lovely, pleasant, or wonderful. In fact, four common elements forming the heart of their message are peace, prosperity, healing, and knowledge. Admirers by the millions—seeking tranquility, wealth, health, and “wisdom”—come to sit at their feet, shake their hands, fall to their knees, and kiss their toes!

Look at today’s Scripture. The two techniques false teachers employ are “good words” and “fair speeches.” In our Greek New Testament, “good words” is “chrestologia.” The term “chrestos” was translated in our King James Bible as follows: “easy” (Matthew 11:30), “better” (Luke 5:39), “kind” (Luke 6:35; Ephesians 4:32), “goodness” (Romans 2:4), “good” (1 Corinthians 15:33), and “gracious” (1 Peter 2:3). Believe it or not, a false teacher’s communications can be described as any or all of these!

“Fair speeches” is “eulogia” (literally, “good thoughts/words”), from which we get “eulogy.” A eulogy is a message intended to praise someone, particularly at the person’s funeral. Admirable traits, inspiring accomplishments, and other enjoyable comments are expressed before a crowd. “Fair” means “beautiful, soothing, reassuring, or complimentary.” As someone once put it, “Fair speeches are language artfully adapted to captivate the hearer.” The “good words” are the substance, but the “fair speeches” are the means whereby the orator influences the audience to believe those words.

This does not mean everyone who speaks kindly or beautifully is automatically a false teacher. Nonetheless, we do need to realize threats to our spiritual wellbeing typically lurk in the most unexpected places….