Acts 20:30

Afrikaans 1983

Ja, uit julle eie geledere sal daar mense na vore kom wat met leuens die gelowiges agter hulle aan sal probeer verlei.

What Does This Mean?

In this verse from Acts chapter 20, Paul is warning the Ephesian church leaders that false teachers will rise up among them and try to lead people astray with their wrong teachings.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a group of friends who love playing soccer. One day, someone in your own group starts telling everyone new rules for the game that aren't actually part of soccer. This person wants others to follow these new made-up rules instead of the real ones. Paul is warning about something like this happening in the church.

Historical Background

The book of Acts was written by Luke, a companion of Paul, around 60-70 AD. This specific verse comes from one of Paul's farewell speeches to the Ephesian elders. It reflects the challenges early Christian communities faced with internal divisions and false teachings in a Greco-Roman cultural setting.

Living It Out Today

In today’s world, this could apply when someone you trust starts sharing ideas that go against what your faith community teaches. For example, a friend who says it's okay to cheat on taxes because they have 'new' interpretations of the Bible might be trying to mislead others.

Topics

• discipleship
• false teachings
• leadership
• warnings
• community
• trust

Related Verses

• Matthew 7:15-20
• 1 Timothy 4:1-5
• Titus 1:9-16
• Galatians 1:6-9
• Revelation 2:14-15

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is speaking in Acts 20:30?

Paul is speaking. He is addressing the elders of Ephesus as part of his farewell address.

What are 'perverse things' mentioned in this verse?

'Perverse things' refer to teachings that twist or distort the truth of God's word, often leading people away from genuine faith and into false beliefs.

How can we apply Acts 20:30 today?

Today, this verse reminds us to be vigilant about false teachings within our communities. It encourages us to stay grounded in the true teachings of Christ and question any doctrine that contradicts Scripture.

What are some signs of a false teacher as per Acts 20:30?

False teachers often have self-serving motives, contradict clear biblical teachings, or create divisions within the church. They may also attract followers by promising easy answers or worldly benefits.