Beware of the false prophets - Matt. 7:15

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Session Theme: When the Gospel Is Used for Gain
Focus: Recognizing and rejecting the distorted message of material-focused preachers

1 Timothy 6:5 (KJV)
“...men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.”
 

The Prosperity Gospel teaches that:

• If you have enough faith, you will always be healthy and wealthy.
   
• Giving money to a preacher or ministry guarantees financial blessings.
   
• Poverty and suffering mean you’re lacking faith or favor.
   
• Speaking positive words will create a better life for you.
   

This is a false gospel. It offers hope without holiness, promises without repentance, and results without obedience. It misuses God’s Word to serve man’s desires.

The Bible warns repeatedly about people who twist the truth for personal gain.

“But there were false prophets also among the people… who shall bring in damnable heresies… And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you.”
 

• These teachers are motivated by greed.
   
• They use deceptive words to make money from people.
   
• Their judgment is coming.
   

“Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward…”
 

• Cain – rebellion
   
• Balaam – used his position to chase money
   
• Korah – challenged God’s order and caused division
   

“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.”
 

• They sound good—but their aim is self-promotion, not God's glory.
   

“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits.”
 

• They look harmless, even spiritual.
   
• But their fruit reveals their heart.
   

Truth of God’s Word is Twisted by False Teachers

WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS                      WHAT THE FALSE TEACHERS TEACH

We suffer as Christ did (Phil. 1:29) ------Suffering means you’re out of God’s will

God provides for our needs (Matt. 6:33) ------God guarantees luxury and riches

Giving should be out of love (2 Cor. 9:7)-----Give money to unlock your blessing

Faith obeys God (Heb. 11)-----Faith manipulates outcomes

True treasure is in heaven (Matt. 6:19–21)-----Heaven can be brought to your bank account