Week 6 (2Ptr; 1 Jhn; 2 Jhn; 3 Jhn; Jude; Rev)

What are the characteristics of false teachers described by Peter in 2 Peter 2:1-19?  How can these characteristics be used to recognize false teachers today?

1. Deny the Lord
2. Speak evil of the truth
3. Make merchandise of their followers
4. Presumptuous
5. Self-willed
6. Adulterous
7. Covetous
8. Vain
9. Lustful
10. Promise liberty

Today false teachers use similar tactics to lure their followers to a false hope.  The teachers are ungodly because the seek after personal gain and ambition.  They don't care for their students but only for money and worldly prestige they receive from life of glamor and fame.  It's not always easy to identify these people but when you compare their agenda to these characteristics described in second Peter it can help us expose thee flaws in false teachers.  

What are the dangers of returning to the "pollutions of the world?"  Refer to 2 Peter 2:20-22 and Doctrine and Covenants 82:3, 7.

Those people who receive great spiritual light are also given great expectations.  When they turn again from what they know and go the way of the world they are still accountable before God the knowledge they were given.   This accountability allows justice to weigh heavier on those to turn away from a "greater light".