The Importance of Good Works and Avoiding False Teachers
The scriptures emphasize the necessity of both faith and good works in the Christian life. We are not justified by our own efforts alone, but by the faith through which God has justified all men from the beginning. However, this does not give us license to become slothful in well-doing.
God's Example of Good Works
God Himself sets the example. By His power, He established the heavens and adorned them with wisdom. He separated the earth from the water, fixed it upon an immovable foundation, and commanded animals into existence. Above all, He formed man in His own image and likeness, giving him understanding. As it is written, "Let us make man in Our image, and after Our likeness. So God made man; male and female He created them." (Genesis 1:26-27).
The Danger of False Doctrine
The early church leaders warned against false teachers who corrupt the faith. Those who corrupt families shall not inherit the kingdom of God. If those who corrupt mere human families are condemned to death, how much more shall those suffer everlasting punishment who endeavor to corrupt the Church of Christ? It is crucial to have the power of distinguishing and to avoid following an unskillful shepherd. As the scripture says, "What communion hath light with darkness? or Christ with Belial? Or what portion hath he that believeth with an infidel? or the temple of God with idols?" (2 Corinthians 6:14-16).
The True Physician
There is one Physician who is possessed both of flesh and spirit; both made and not made; God existing in flesh; true life in death; both of Mary and of God; first possible and then impossible -- even Jesus Christ our Lord. Beware of those who carry the name of Jesus Christ in wicked guile, practicing things unworthy of God. These individuals should be avoided as wild beasts, for they are ravening dogs who bite secretly. Our true Physician is the only true God, the unbegotten and unapproachable, the Lord of all, the Father and Begetter of the only-begotten Son.