Beware of False Teachers
Dear brothers and sisters,
We have almost reached the end of this liturgical season (C) and are getting ready to enter into the Advent Season. Though we are preparing to celebrate Christmas, the readings during this time become more eschatological - having to do with the end times. It tells us to be prepared for the end time.
As you all know, I belong to one of the Eastern Catholic Churches (Syro-Malankara Catholic Church), where we follow the ancient Antiochian Liturgy. We enter into the liturgical year by celebrating the Sunday of the Sanctification of the Church and the Sunday of the Renewal of the Church. It is the sanctification and renewal of our own life. It is a time for rearranging our priorities of life.
During this liturgical season, Jesus teaches us about the signs of the end time such as wars, sufferings, persecutions, and false teachings. This Sunday, Jesus warns us by saying “See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he,’ and ‘The time has come. Do not follow them” (Luke 21:8).
St. Paul warns the Philippian community against false teachers: “For many, as I have often told you and now tell you even in tears, conduct themselves as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction. Their God is their stomach; their glory is in their “shame.” Their minds are occupied with earthly things” (Philippians 3:18-19).
From the beginning of the Church itself, there were false teachers and teachings. That is why St. Paul and others strongly warned the communities against them. It is much more relevant in today’s world also. The main concern of such preachers is to attract people to themselves rather than to Jesus. Very often they speak about wealth, healing, and prosperity. There is no place for suffering or the cross in their message. By doing so, they think that they can attract people and, very often, they succeed in it. But we should know that it is not the message of the Gospel.
As we enter into the new liturgical season, let us try to learn more of the Gospel, the teachings of the Church, and also to be faithful in our call to be His followers.
God bless you all,
Fr. John Samuel