To the outward form. The context shows these people are members of the Lord's church (or at least they seem to be). In order to deceive their followers, they put on an outward show of godliness, and perhaps pretend to be "defenders of the Faith." Read what Jesus said in Matthew 23:23-32. But reject. Compare what Paul said in 1 Thessalonians 1:5; 1 Corinthians 4:19-20. The real power of our religion is truth and love at work in a holy life! The false teachers cut themselves off from these!!! Lipscomb says: "Anyone denies the power of godliness when he professes to honor God, but refuses to obey his commandments (Matthew 7:21-23)." Keep away. This means: (1) Avoid such people as this! (2) Do not allow such people to influence you. (3) MacKnight thinks it means they should be turned out of the church to protect the others, as you would remove a cancer.

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Old Testament