Seven Characteristics of False Teachers by Thomas Brooks (1608 - 1680)
The 17th-century non-conformist pastor Thomas Brooks is perhaps best known by his classic book, Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices. The intent of the book was to edify believers with a Biblically-informed understanding about Satan and his temptations, and provide practical “remedies.' In Seven Characteristics Of False Teachers, Brooks outlines the evident characteristics that, since the initial warnings of Christ about “wolves in sheep’s clothing,” have remained consistent throughout church history.
The 17th-century non-conformist pastor Thomas Brooks is perhaps best known by his classic book, Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices. The intent of the book was to edify believers with a Biblically-informed understanding about Satan and his temptations, and provide practical “remedies.' In Seven Characteristics Of False Teachers, Brooks outlines the evident characteristics that, since the initial warnings of Christ about “wolves in sheep’s clothing,” have remained consistent throughout church history.
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scorn that is thrown upon those <strong>of</strong> whom the world is not<br />
worthy! I suppose false teachers mind not that saying <strong>of</strong><br />
Augustine: 'He who willingly takes from my good name,<br />
unwillingly adds to my reward.' The proverb is, 'A man's eye<br />
and his good name can bear no jests.’<br />
[3.] <strong>False</strong> teachers are venters <strong>of</strong> the devices<br />
and visions <strong>of</strong> their own heads and hearts.<br />
<br />
Jer. 14:14: "Then the Lord said unto me—These prophets are<br />
telling lies in my name. I did not send them or tell them to<br />
speak. I did not give them any messages. They prophesy <strong>of</strong><br />
visions and revelations they have never seen or heard. They<br />
speak foolishness made up in their own lying hearts." "This<br />
is my warning to my people," says the Lord Almighty. "Do not<br />
listen to these prophets when they prophesy to you, filling<br />
you with futile hopes. They are making up everything they<br />
say. They do not speak for the Lord!" Jeremiah 23:16.<br />
Are there not multitudes in this nation whose visions are but<br />
golden delusions, lying vanities, brain-sick fantasies? These<br />
are Satan's great benefactors, and such as divine justice will<br />
hang up in hell as the greatest malefactors, if the physician<br />
<strong>of</strong> souls does not prevent it.<br />
Matt. 24:4, 5; 11:14; Titus 1:10; Rom. 16:18<br />
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