Knockoffs

Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine.

1 Timothy 4:16

They’re called “knockoffs”—counterfeit watches, sunglasses, pens, and ties, all sporting a designer label. “Counterfeiting is a booming international business,” reported the New York Times, “accounting for an estimated 5 to 7 percent of global trade.” Some people buy phony goods for fun because they enjoy sporting a “Rolex” watch or “Louis Vuitton” purse, but others are fleeced of their hard-earned money.

There are a lot of counterfeit religions being peddled today too. Visit any large bookstore, and peruse the titles in the religion/spirituality section. Surf through the channels on your television. Scan the religion section of your newspaper.

How can you tell the truth from the knockoffs? The best way is to carefully study the genuine article. It’s easy to spot fakes if you know the authentic. That’s why it’s important to read the Scriptures and divide them rightly. It’s important to listen to the sermons and study the writings of trustworthy pastors and teachers.

The apostle Paul warned Timothy to reject the claims of false teachers, “rightly dividing” the Word of God for himself (2 Timothy 2:15). Don’t fall for the phony. Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine.