When used appropriately, the Internet can be a wonderful tool for Bible study and research. You can study from a variety of translations simultaneously on your computer screen or smartphone, read lesson outlines and articles about Biblical topics, even listen to gospel sermons on a weekly basis.

The World Wide Web has made the spread of the truth much easier. Unfortunately, however, the Internet has also made the spread of error much easier. We must use caution when reading the writings of men, comparing their words to God’s Word, and rejecting those things which are contrary to the truth revealed through the pages of inspiration.

I have seen error taught through e-mail and blog postings on the subjects of marriage/divorce/remarriage, polygamy, fornication, and instrumental music, among other things. A man in Texas teaches that Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John (before the cross) do not belong in the New Testament. This doctrine is sometimes referred to as “MMLJBC.” In a seven-month period, I received at least 30 e-mails promoting this false doctrine which is sadly influencing some in the Lord’s church.

There are others who teach that we should practice full fellowship with false denominational groups, or that the Holy Spirit operates directly on the heart of the saint without the medium of the Word, or that Christians are not under law of any kind. Such teachings may be branded as “hobbies” by some, but that is really putting it too lightly. They are not “hobbies”—they are false doctrines, and they must be rejected since they are not taught in God’s Word.

“I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ” (Galatians 1:6-7). May we be noble as the Bereans, who “received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11).