Guarding Apostle Paul’s Urgent Warning Against Spiritual Instability

From the heart of Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Bible Teacher & Expositor. This post is directed toward every believer in Christ. As a Bible teacher & expositor, I’m alarmed at how often I see false, unhealthy, and unsound doctrine from those who claim to be believers in Christ. I understand that every person who’s sharing may not be a believer, but what about those who are? Paul has a warning to share. He says, “As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming; but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ” (Ephesians 4:14-15). Let’s examine this passage. Paul says, “We are no longer to be children.” Naturally and spiritually, children tend to act impulsively, based on their feelings of the moment, rather than thoughtfully and carefully. As a parent, part of helping your children mature is to help them learn to think about the consequences of their actions before they act. You want to help them learn to act on the basis of right and sound beliefs! This is what Paul is supporting and recommending! I concur! The phrase “Tossed here and there” refers to believers being swayed by false, unhealthy teachings or worldly distractions, causing them to lose their spiritual stability. It signifies a lack of spiritual maturity and vulnerability to deception, like a ship caught by waves in a storm. The imagery of being “tossed here and there” is found in several biblical passages, most notably Ephesians 4:14, which speaks of believers being spiritually immature, easily misled by false teachings. “Carried about” means to be moved around without control or direction. Like a ship in a storm, it’s at the mercy of the winds and waves. These waves and winds of false teaching are the powerful currents of worldly philosophy that Satan brings on the scene to undermine biblical truth. It also describes someone whose beliefs frequently shift, making them unstable or easily influenced. The phrase often implies a lack of stability or grounding. These false ideas always represent an assault on God’s Word of truth which results in spiritual instability. The antidote to being “tossed here and there” and “carried about” is “We are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ.” The antidote is spiritual growth and maturity, which includes developing discernment and holding firmly to sound doctrine. Ultimately, the goal is to find stability and steadfastness in faith, anchored by the teachings of Christ and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Be encouraged!