How are we to know?

Galatians 1:6-9(NKJV)

6I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, 

7which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ. 

8But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. 

9As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.

We all know people who try to twist the Gospel and pass it off as the real deal.  One of my favorites is Kumbaya Jesus but there are many other examples.  So how are we to know the difference?

We have one advantage that the Galatians didn't have.  We have the Bible and we can read.  People weren't nearly as literate back then as they are today.  In addition they didn't have the printing press back then so the printed word was very expensive.  Few people could afford their own books.

We have the Bible, either in print or on line.  We can go in and study the Gospel.  Not just read it but study it.  Pay attention to the nuances.  Pray for understanding, revelation, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit as we study God's word.  That is the only way we will be able to tell the difference.

Oh and by the way, if we are led astray, guess who God will hold partially responsible.  Us!  God tells us that if we listen to others over God, God will hold us responsible for that decision.

So enjoy the journey.  Dig into the Word daily.  It's a great way to start your day and also to live your life.  And the next time someone tries to pass off something as the Gospel when it isn't, you will be able to tell the difference!