“I will worship toward thy holy temple and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.”
(Psalm 138:2)
At various times throughout church history heresies have surfaced within the church that challenge the blessed doctrine of Christ. Such false teachings grow out of an ignorance of God’s Word, pride, self-conceit, overestimation of one’s gifts, lack of love for Christ, Satan’s malice, ambition, and covetousness.
Of course, heresy inside the church doors could not exist without God’s allowance. In His providence, God uses false prophets and heretics to arise among His people to test their faithfulness. Deuteronomy 13:3 explains that these false prophets are the Lord’s tool to separate the faithful from the unfaithful, as heresies reveal those who truly belong to God. And in 1 Corinthians 11:19 Paul affirms that heresies act as fire to test and reveal those who are faithful.
Moreover, God’s wisdom allows heresy because it ultimately strengthens and clarifies His truth. When the truth is disputed and opposed, it is more thoroughly examined and understood. Just as sparks fly when flints are struck together, the truth becomes brighter and more victorious through the trial of opposition.
In order to protect our faith against heresy, we must cultivate humility while growing in our love for God’s Word. A love for the truth leads to a hatred of falsehood, as David expressed in Psalm 119:113: “I hate vain thoughts: but thy law do I love.” And diligence in reading, hearing, and obeying the Word keeps us within the bounds of truth. Jesus said, “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God” (John 7:17).
So let us not be discouraged by the presence of heresy or the trials it brings. Satan may stir up trouble in an attempt to hinder the Gospel and obscure God’s glory, but God always brings light out of darkness. He uses these challenges to purify His church, prove His people, and train them in humility and obedience. So if we experience such trials and some falling away, let us not lose heart. Our priority must be to honor and uphold the truth of God’s Word, even if it means enduring conflict. Because when the truth is opposed and false doctrines are zealously defended, we can trust that God is purifying our faith and ultimately glorifying Himself.[1]
Contemplations:
- Trusting God in the Midst of Trials. When heresies arise, I know that God’s truth remains unshaken. His Word is magnified above His name, a testament to its irrefutable authority. So when my faith is challenged, I turn to God’s Word, knowing it is my sure foundation. His truth brings clarity to confusion and sheds light into the darkness.
- Embracing Humility to Guard Against Deception. John 7:17 reminds me that pride blinds me to the truth, but humility allows me to see clearly. When I diligently seek to hear, read, and obey God’s Word, I know that He will keep me grounded in truth. By humbling myself, I avoid self-conceit and overestimation of my own understanding, relying instead on the wisdom and guidance of God.
- Finding Strength in God’s Word. Psalm 119:113 says, “I hate vain thoughts: but thy law do I love.” I strengthen my resolve against heresy by cultivating a deep love for God’s Word. And as my love for His Word grows, so does my hatred for falsehood and vain thoughts. This love for God’s law keeps me anchored, preventing me from being swayed by deceptive teachings. By immersing myself in the Scriptures, I build a solid foundation that withstands the storms of false doctrines.
- Being Cautious of Influences. Proverbs 3:21-23 warns me to be mindful of the influences I allow into my life. Heretical books and associations can subtly lead me away from the truth. But by staying vigilant and discerning, I protect myself from these dangers. As long as I choose my companions wisely, I avoid philosophies that conflict with my faith. And my unwavering commitment to God’s Word ensures that I remain rooted in sound wisdom and discretion, walking safely in the path of truth.
Prayer (Thanksgiving):
O Lord, You are the God of truth, whose Word stands exalted, as Psalm 138:2 declares: “I will worship toward thy holy temple and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.” I thank You for Your Word’s unshakable authority that guides me through heresy’s trials. Your lovingkindness leads me to worship, and Your truth protects me.
I praise You for using heresies (1 Corinthians 11:19) to purify Your church and clarify Your truth. Thank You for Your providence that turns opposition into triumph, and for Your Word which protects me from deception (Prov. 3:21-23).
And I am grateful for Your church and Your ministers who faithfully proclaim Your Word. Thank You for Your Spirit that fosters humility of heart and love for Your law (Ps. 119:113).
Let my life be a song of gratitude and help me stand firm against heresy, rooted in Your truth. For You are my King, my Shield, my Truth, and I worship You for Your unfailing Word.
In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Further References for Psalm 138:2:
Psalm 5:7; 1 Kings 8:29; Micah 7:18; Luke 1:68
[1] Thomas Taylor, A Commentary Upon the Epistle of S. Paul Written to Titus. (Cambridge: Cantrell Legge for L. Greene, 1612), 705.
