12/13 2 Peter 2:18-19

¹⁸ For, speaking loud boasts of folly, they entice by sensual passions of the flesh those who are barely escaping from those who live in error. ¹⁹ They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved.

This chapter written by Peter is about the false teachers who attempt to exploit the church. Peter tells us that they are motivated by two things, sensuality and financial gain. They take advantage of the fact that Christians are gentle and patient. Their target is the spiritually immature or weak believers. These false teachers bring in their heresies secretly so as not to alert the elders. Their teaching awakens the passions that the weak believers had recently forsaken. The end result is destruction for false teachers and their followers, and the way of truth is blasphemed.

These false teachers are so arrogant that they boast of a special relationship with God. They slander heavenly beings, which even the angels dare not do. This bold pride they exhibit is attractive to the weaker believers who are undiscerning. They preach freedom while leading their followers back into the bondage of sensuality.

The judgment upon these false teachers will be severe and deservedly so. Watch yourself and immature believers that are attracted to anyone who teaches without the approval of the elders in your fellowship. Let your elders know what is happening. Secrecy is a sure sign that something is amiss.

Remember: Any teaching that entices you back into sins you have forsaken is spiritually dangerous. Don't be deceived.