In 2 Peter 2:17–19 the apostle gives further details regarding the impact of the heretics on the church—in particular, how they frustrate Christian discipleship, making it difficult for believers to grow in godliness and maturity.
This description is given to us for two reasons. In the first place, it shows how to spot false teachers so that we will not be taken in by them. This is one of the ways in which the Lord works to rescue the godly (2 Peter 2:9). Secondly, as we come face to face with the sins of the heretics, we are reminded of the virtues that we ought to pursue (2 Peter 1:5–11). Their vices are exposed in order to show us how heinous sin is, so that we will seek after godliness.
Promises of Prosperity
The first way that heretics frustrate discipleship is by promising prosperity instead of suffering. Springs without water, mists driven by a storm—they promise great things for the Christian life. God wants you to be wealthy. He wants to give you a new car, a new house. He wants you to live without suffering and disease.
These are the bold and arrogant promises we hear from false teachers.
To support these promises, false teachers generally make use of Bible texts that are taken out of context. Deuteronomy 28:1–14 is quoted without any mention of the differences between the old and new covenant. Jesus’ teaching, that we are to ask from the Father knowing that he will give good things to his children (Matthew 7:7–8; Luke 11:13), is seen as a promise of prosperity, because good things are being determined by me rather than God. Jeremiah’s prophecy about God’s plans for our good (Jeremiah 29:11) is divorced from its context, namely Israel living in Babylon. Taken out of context, the false teachers are very adept at promising a Christian life with no cancer, no suffering, and abundant provision.
Their promises, however, are empty because they are not consistent with the full revelation of God. They leave people empty and disappointed. They twist the gospel to suit their ends.
Promises of Freedom
A second way in which the heretics frustrate Christian discipleship is through an abuse of Christian liberty. Anchored in their ideas that there is no judgment, they encourage believers to indulge their desires. God loves you. He wants you to be happy. Treat yourself to the nice things in life. Do not be frightened by those who say that God is a judge. It is not true.
Their words are particularly dangerous to those who have but a limited knowledge of God’s Word. If you do not know that without holiness no one will see the Lord
(Hebrews 12:14), you may be drawn in by their claims. If you do not know that those who pursue righteousness will be persecuted (Matthew 5:10) and that God disciplines those whom he loves (Hebrews 12:1–29), you will be taken in by their promises of prosperity and peace in this life.
17 These are waterless springs and mists driven by a storm. For them the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved.