1:7-9 Breaking Relationship Is it possible to break relationship with God? Yes, by wandering away from his teachings. Modern society suggests that people should be free to do and believe whatever they want—to do their own thing. But Christians know, and Scripture affirms, that this can be spiritually deadly. Some beliefs, such as the affirmation that Jesus Christ came in a real body, are essential to enjoying the blessing of a relationship with God. We don’t do anyone a favor—least of all ourselves—when we compromise on key truths.
1:10-11 Discernment Because false teaching can be the cause of such significant suffering, we must take care that we do not inadvertently appear to endorse the messages of false teachers. Loving each other in the body of Christ includes exercising keen discernment in matters of theology and doctrine.