In this passage, the Apostle Paul made the Corinthian people aware of the false teachers in their midst. False teachers (then and now) have an agenda of distorting our thinking and belief. We must always be prepared, as false teaching will not lead us to holiness. Paul’s ultimate warning declares: Do not fall prey to false teachings, and do not let anyone impair your walk with Christ. Be mindful that not everyone comes with good intentions. There are distinct spiritual dangers involved with associating with those who are not in sync with God. Evil is lurking all around us, and as Christian believers, we must be vigilant and conscious of what we are feeding our hearts and minds (Romans 12:2). It is critical that we abstain from evil influences.

In addition to being aware of false teaching, it becomes vital that we censor what we are watching, listening to, and who we spend time with, especially in relationships outside the body of Christ. Paul warns of this in 1 Corinthians 5:9-11, and describes the people we should intentionally avoid who engage in blatant immoral behaviors. Unbelieving immoral people can influence even the most mature Christian, and cause them to waiver in their faith. When we associate with bad company, we risk imitating their behaviors, language, and habits. Have you ever noticed that after spending a large amount of time with someone, you begin to say the things they say, or develop certain habits they display? When we associate ourselves with unbelievers, we can begin to look like the world. Sometimes we are so desperate for the approval or acceptance of others, that we begin to compromise our beliefs. Knowing our limitations, we must flee situations, people or environments that have the potential to hinder our walk with the Lord.

Here are some practical ways of avoiding bad company or being easily misled:

·      Study God’s word to avoid being deceived (2 Timothy 3:16)

·      Be watchful.  Ask the Lord for wisdom and discernment (Colossians 4:2)

·      Cultivate the company of fellow Christian believers (Hebrews 10:25; Proverbs 13:20, 27:17)

·      Avoid negative situations or the people who have the tendency to be drawn to them

As we walk through life, we will inevitably experience challenging situations and people. It helps greatly when we keep our eyes focused on Jesus. Pray for godly influences and develop healthy boundaries so that you can walk with reverence and obedience to the Lord. Paul reminds us that as believers, we need to “be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58).

Is there anyone in your life who may be causing you to stumble in your walk with the Lord? What can you do today to ensure that you are not deceived or led astray?

Lord, give me wisdom and discernment to refrain from the things that will thwart my walk with you. Please help me to establish healthy boundaries in relationships with others and to discern when impeding trouble can lead me down dark paths. Direct me to people who will provide godly influence to strengthen my walk with You. I also ask that You use me to be a godly influence to those around me. Amen.

Scripture References:

Matthew 24:4; Proverbs 9:6; Ephesians 5:6-7; Galatians 6:7; Matthew 7:15-20