With all manner and types of teachings and doctrines being propagated on social media, here are ten ways to refute false teachings as shared by the Venerable Dr. Paul Dajur, the General Secretary of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion on his Facebook page.
[1] Biblical Refutation: Use scripture to directly counter false teachings. Present clear, contextually accurate Bible verses that expose the error and explain the correct doctrine.
[2] Fact-Checking and Research: Verify claims and teachings before addressing them. Use reliable theological sources, historical context, and church tradition to debunk misleading or false teachings.
[3] Engage with Humility and Grace: Approach discussions with a gentle and respectful attitude (2 Timothy 2:24-25). Avoid aggressive or confrontational language, which can alienate others and lead to unproductive arguments.
[4] Create Educational Content: Develop posts, videos, infographics, or articles that educate people on sound doctrine and provide a counter-narrative to false teachings.
[5] Use Clear and Simple Language: Break down complex theological concepts in ways that are easy to understand. Misinterpretations often stem from confusion or lack of clarity.
[6] Encourage Discernment: Teach your audience how to discern truth from falsehood by emphasizing the importance of knowing the Bible and being led by the Holy Spirit.
[7] Highlight Trusted Voices: Share content from reputable pastors, theologians, and ministries known for sound doctrine. Promote correct teachings as much as you refute false ones.
[8] Moderate and Filter Discussions: On platforms where you manage or participate, monitor conversations and intervene when necessary. Use moderation tools to remove harmful content and encourage respectful dialogue.
[9] Private Correction (When Possible): If you know the individual spreading falsehoods, consider approaching them privately for a one-on-one discussion. This can be less confrontational and more effective in leading them toward truth.
[10] Pray and Seek God’s Guidance: Pray for wisdom in how to approach corrections and for the hearts of those misled to be receptive to truth. Rely on the Holy Spirit to guide your words and actions.
The Venerable Dr. Paul Dajur is the General Secretary of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion
