In his 1981 book, Cover to Cover, Johnny Ramsey wrote in the short entry to the letter of 2 John: “For the truth’s sake (verse 2) we dare not allow heresy to gain a foothold wherever our influence extends itself” (Quality Publications, p. 305).
The subject of the quoted sentence refers to all the faithful saints in Christ, Colossians 1.2. It is not hard to identify who these are. They are the ones who exalt, study and follow the Bible. This is not arrogance to say this of ourselves. On the contrary, it is humility seeking complete obedience, commitment to stay within the blessed confines of Scripture, determination not to go beyond what is written, Matthew 28.20; 1Corinthians 4.6; 2Corinthians 10.6; 2Timothy 3.15-17.
We dare not allow heresy to gain a foothold because (1) only the truth saves and frees from sin, John 8.32; 1Peter 1.22; (2) the foothold is first a trickle that widens into a raging river, Ezekiel 8.6; Hosea 4.7; Matthew 24.12; 2Timothy 3.13; 1Peter 4.4; and (3) our own integrity is at stake, Galatians 1.10; Titus 2.7.
We keep heresy out by a forceful presentation of the truth. Balance is a must. Close adherence to the Word is required. Opinions must be excluded. Christ must be exalted in every way, at every turn of the sacred page.
We must work against giving heresy a foothold “wherever our influence extends itself.” This is an important point in brother Ramsey’s quote. We cannot at any moment be silent. The mouths of the rebellious and deceivers must be stopped; “It is essential to silence them” Titus 1.11 NCB. They are homewreckers and manipulators. They have hidden agendas and work under false pretenses.
Often we would prefer to stay in our own little circle. We abhor controversy. We shrink from the strain of conflict. But our influence is greater than our own comfortable group. We must see where our influence reaches. Let us take the truth as far as we can.
One sister in Christ was questioned as to why she accepted invitations to speak at women’s events whose promoters were progressives. She in effect said that she was taking the fight to them. At some point, the invitations will cease, but she has the right idea.
Many want to be free of biblical restrictions. They must be cut off. But some are unaware and naive. Others who may be attracted to the appeal to false promises of freedom and acceptance might be pulled back from the fire of hell.
The influence each one possesses must be used to full advantage. Do not neglect the need of the hour. Speak freely, often, and clearly. Use the gift of influence that God offers you. “Take advantage of every opportunity because these are evil times” Ephesians 5.16 CEB.
“And have mercy on some, who are doubting; save others, snatching them out of the fire; and on some have mercy with fear, hating even the garment polluted by the flesh” Jude 22-23 NASB.
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