Error: Understanding Biblical Truth and Avoiding Spiritual Deception Through Scripture

Error occurs when believers stray from biblical truth through wrong actions, faulty understanding, or neglect of God's Word. Recognizing and correcting error is essential for maintaining spiritual integrity and walking faithfully in relationship with God.

The Nature and Causes of Error

Error represents a wrong action or inaction resulting from bad judgement, ignorance, or inattention. In the Christian context, it involves straying from the truth through failing to walk obediently in the truth already received or not "correctly handling the Word of Truth" (2 Tim 2:15). This is why it is essential to have a balanced and growing understanding of the Bible, for God's Word is truth (Jn 17:17; 2 Pet 3:18). The consequences of error extend beyond mere intellectual mistakes; they affect the whole person—spirit, soul, and body—and can lead to spiritual stagnation, moral compromise, and ultimately separation from God's intended purposes.

Jesus bluntly said, "You are in error because you don't know the [real meaning of the] Scriptures or the power of God" (Mt 22:29). He was confronting the self-righteous, proud religious leaders of His day, who had a superficial and twisted understanding of the Scriptures. Pride and ignorance are a dangerous combination that leads believers away from genuine truth. The Pharisees' error was not merely in their interpretation but in their hearts—they knew the letter of the law but missed its spirit. This serves as a timeless warning that knowledge without humility and love becomes a breeding ground for error.

Error often begins subtly, like a small crack in a foundation that gradually widens over time. It may start with a compromise of biblical principles, a rationalization of sinful behaviour, or a gradual drift from regular engagement with Scripture. The writer of Hebrews warns against being "carried away by all kinds of strange teachings" (Heb 13:9), indicating that error can enter through various channels—cultural pressures, emotional vulnerabilities, intellectual pride, or spiritual complacency. Understanding these entry points helps believers guard their hearts and minds against deception.

Be alert and know the truth

God's Word is Truth from Cover to Cover

We should confirm all Christian teaching with the Word of God, as there are many false teachings that will lead even sincere believers away (Act 17:11; 2 Pet 2:1). If we don't apply the principles of the Bible we are automatically walking in error, setting ourselves up for deception and destruction (Mt 7:24-27; Jas 1:22). Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching you really are my disciples, then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free" (Jn 8:31-32). As we learn more of His ways, they need to be embraced and adhered to. We follow Christ by "walking in the truth" (3 Jn 1:4).

Only having some of the truth is being vulnerable to error. A mature couple explained the full gospel truth to a younger believer who was unaware that there was more (Act 18:24-28). We need discernment to know truth from error, being sensitive to the Holy Spirit, "If you leave God's paths and go astray, you will hear a Voice behind you say, 'No this is the way; walk here'" (Isa 30:21).

Satan Doesn't Worry If You Believe What Is False

Whoever knows God listens to and outworks Godly teaching; this is how we discern between truth and error (1 Jn 4:6). Although serious, error is not as bad as heresy, which is a more deliberate turning from the truth and the spreading of false teaching (Jud 1:11). "My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge" (Hos 4:6).

The Importance of Community and Accountability

It is also the responsibility of believers to restore those who have wandered from the truth and fallen into error (Gal 6:1; Jas 5:19-20). Being our brother's keeper is for everyone's protection. We should all be in open, humble accountability to others—both to give and receive feedback as "Who can discern his errors" (Ps 19:12). Living the Bible together in this close relationship with God and honest rapport with Godly people will keep us from error and deception.

How can I help others back to the truth?

The Bible, the Word of God, is inerrant and infallible, being incapable of being wrong and thus contains no errors. This divine characteristic provides the foundation upon which all truth claims must be tested. When we understand that Scripture itself cannot err, we recognize that any error comes from human misunderstanding, misinterpretation, or misapplication rather than from God's Word itself.

Recognizing and Correcting Error

Recognizing error requires both biblical knowledge and spiritual discernment. Believers must develop the ability to distinguish between essential doctrines, secondary issues, and personal preferences. The apostle John instructed believers to "test the spirits to see whether they are from God" (1 Jn 4:1), indicating that not every spiritual influence or teaching aligns with biblical truth. This testing involves comparing teachings with Scripture, examining the character and fruit of those promoting the teaching, and seeking wisdom from mature believers and church leadership.

Evaluate the input you receive to ensure it aligns with biblical truth

When error is identified, the biblical response involves both confrontation and restoration. Jesus provided a clear process for addressing brothers or sisters who sin (Mt 18:15-17), emphasizing private confrontation first, then involving witnesses, and finally bringing the matter before the church. This process balances truth with grace, aiming at restoration rather than condemnation.

Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would guide believers into all truth (Jn 16:13), indicating that spiritual discernment is ultimately a work of God's Spirit within us. The Spirit illuminates Scripture, helping believers understand its meaning and apply it to their lives. This illumination is not a substitute for careful study but works alongside it, bringing spiritual insight that transcends mere intellectual understanding.

Reflection and Application:

Examine areas in your life where you may have drifted from biblical truth through ignorance or neglect of Scripture.
Consider how you can grow in discernment to distinguish between truth and error in teaching and personal beliefs.
Reflect on your accountability relationships and whether they provide honest feedback to keep you from error.
Identify practical steps to deepen your understanding of God's Word and apply it more faithfully in daily decisions.