The reader might have noticed the titles of this issue tend to reflect a change from the negative to the positive. The exception to that rule is the subject of my assignment. As Christians, we want things to move from bad to good (and not the other way around), but the reality is the devil is hard at work (1 Pet. 5:8). Sadly, some who were faithful in the past have departed from the faith (1 Tim. 4:1). What are some reasons the Bible reveals about faithful brothers changing “from sheep to wolves?’
The Love of Money. “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith . . .”11 (1 Tim. 6:10 bold mine, SS).
One of the primary sources of teaching in the early church was the eldership (Eph. 4:11-12; 1 Timothy 3:2). In some cases, elders who were known to engage in preaching and teaching (1 Tim. 5:17), were financially compensated by the church (1 Tim. 5:18). Could it be some of those responsible for shepherding the sheep did so out of “shameful gain”? (1 Pet. 5:3). In Ezekiel’s day, God rebuked the shepherds of Israel for “feeding themselves” and not “feeding the sheep” (Ezek. 34:2, 8, 10).
These days, we don’t often hear of elders being financially supported by the church. Nevertheless, money could be the “god” that once faithful preachers and servants of the Lord have decided to worship. Perhaps a little compromise here means a preacher finds a larger congregation (equaling more pay). Maybe a little compromise there allows a preacher and gifted writer to sell more books. Truly, the love of money can lead brethren to change from “sheep” to “wolves.”
Friends and family. When a close friend or family member is involved in sin, there may be a temptation to compromise truth. This situation occurred during the high priesthood of Eli (1 Sam. 1-4).
The Bible makes the depravity of Eli’s sons plain, “Now the sons of Eli were worthless men. They did not know the Lord” (1 Sam. 2:12). In turn, God revealed to young Samuel the future punishment of Eli (1 Sam. 3:10-14). Eli’s punishment came “because his sons were blaspheming God and he did not restrain them” (1 Sam. 3:13). Eli’s sons were supposed to be God’s priests, but they made a mockery of the priesthood (1 Sam. 2:13-17, 22). Why didn’t Eli restrain his sons?
Occasionally, brethren refer anecdotally to preachers who once held to the Bible’s teaching on marriage, divorce, and remarriage until a family member violated Matthew 5:32 and 19:9. Like Eli, who failed to urge his sons to repent, some may decide to compromise out of “love” for this family member. Jesus said loving family more than him makes one unworthy of being his disciple (Matt. 10:37; Luke 14:27). Compromising conviction because of family and friends may be another way brethren change from “sheep” to “wolves.”
Immaturity and Ignorance. These two items tend to go hand in hand. Regarding immaturity, it may be that a brother has taken on responsibility without thinking through the obligations. Jesus warned about putting the “hand to the plow” and then looking back (Luke 9:62). Such would certainly be a sign of immaturity.
One cannot help but wonder if immaturity was the issue with John Mark (Acts 13:13; 15:37-38), as well as Demas who deserted Paul due to his love of the world (2 Tim. 4:9). At least with John Mark, we are thankful that he became useful again to Paul for ministry (2 Tim. 4:11).
Regarding ignorance, perhaps a lack of study along with unfamiliarity of the devil’s devices (2 Cor. 2:11) leads a brother astray. If a man of God fails to equip himself with the word of God (2 Tim. 3:16-17), he can be led to believe in false theories (e.g., theistic evolution, day-age theory, etc.) and false teachings from those who have impressive academic credentials.
Indeed, it is sad to see otherwise promising brothers move from being “sheep” to “wolves.”
-Spencer Strickland