2 Peter 2:2 KJV
[2] “And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.”
The word “pernicious” means “having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way.” Peter has in mind the shameless conduct of these apostate men. They have abandoned the truth and have endorsed filthy and foul lifestyles. What is shocking to me in this verse is not the conduct of these preachers, but the size of the crowd. Notice, the beginning of this verse says that “many” shall follow them.
These are false preachers and teachers who attract large crowds with their lavish lifestyles and popularity. Now, I’m not saying that every man who has a large church and a congregation that loves him and takes care of him is a fake preacher. God honors and blesses men who have been faithful and true to His Word. Some are even blessed with a growing ministry and financial blessings.
If they are a true man of God, their message doesn’t change, regardless of how large their congregation becomes. Their message remains the same whether they have a great salary or not. They are true to God and His Word, and not themselves. Fake preachers have one goal in mind, and that is to get rich. They desire the name, the fame, and the money. They will push whatever buttons are necessary to stir the emotions of a crowd just to keep the money flowing. They know how to work a crowd to make it appear spiritual. Their message is heresy and will damn the souls of many.
The tragedy is that many will follow these men into Hell. They will be so enamored by their personalities and popularity that they will believe them over the Word of God. Dear reader, do not follow that crowd. Stay with what the Bible teaches. It is unpopular and outdated in this world, but it is still right. We must choose between the two. We must choose between truth and a lie. We must choose between right and wrong. Just because a work is big does not mean it has been blessed. Just because a work or ministry is small does not mean it is lacking. The Lord uses whomever He wants to, whatever He wants to, and decides how He wants to do it, whenever He sees fit.
Remember, fake preachers will always attack those who have stood for the truth. They will mock and belittle both their stand and their message. Spirit-filled men of God will not attack them but will constantly expose them by preaching the truth. Our message doesn’t change with the times. The truth is timeless and does not need to be updated or revised. Thank God that the men who have been called by God have the right message and the right motive. Don’t follow the crowd, but follow the truth.