How do we know false teachers?

Identifying false teachers requires discernment. They often offer flattering words and appealing messages rather than addressing the weighty matters of the faith, as highlighted in Matthew 23:23, where Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for neglecting justice and mercy while being meticulous about minor details. Furthermore, Jeremiah 14:14 reveals that these prophets speak from their own imaginations rather than from God's word, leading to a distortion of truth. By contrasting their teachings with Scripture and looking for these traits—such as a disregard for holiness and an emphasis on self-interest—believers can recognize and distance themselves from false teachers.