2 Peter 2:15: Forsaking The Right Way, They Have Gone Astray. They Have Followed The Way Of Balaam, The Son Of Beor, Who Loved Gain From Wrongdoing

2 Peter 2:15

[15] Forsaking the right way, they have gone astray. They have followed the way of Balaam, the son of Beor, who loved gain from wrongdoing, (ESV)

It is frightening to think that there are those who know enough of the Word of God to be dangerous. They may have a Bible degree. They could have years of experience in the area of preaching and teaching. Perhaps, they have a very charismatic personality. If they are not surrendered to the Lordship of Jesus Christ, all of those other things are irrelevant.

Peter is continuing to describe false teachers who have some knowledge, but have an immoral character. Here he compares them to the Old Testament prophet, Balaam. Balaam was a prophet who could be bought by the enemies of Israel to prophecy against Israel. He portended to speak for God, and was even respected as a prophet of God, yet loved money more than righteousness.

We actually get a little more insight into the wicked teaching of Balaam, which Peter is referencing, in the book of Revelation. In the second chapter of the book of Revelation we have Jesus' words to the seven churches in Asia. In Jesus' words to the church at Pergamum we here Balaam referenced. Listen intently to Jesus' words. They will give understanding to why Peter compares false teachers to Balaam:

Revelation 2:14:  "But I have a few things against you: you have some there who hold the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, so that they might eat food sacrificed to idols and practice sexual immorality." Clearly, Balaam, a prophet of God, did not have the right things in mind for the people of God. He was led by greed and immorality.

This issue with greed and immorality continues to plague the church. Pay attention to what motivates the ones who lead you spiritually. There needs to be a devotion to godliness and purity.