“The time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.” 2 Timothy 4:3

Outdoor expeditions are the perfect setting for leadership development and personal growth because of the obstacles you undoubtedly will face. Your response to them will determine much about the rest of the journey. Whether it’s boulders in your path, rivers to cross, or emotional stress, you will come to a point of decision.

Paul admonishes the church at Ephesus to hold fast to sound doctrine and the truth of the gospel as there will be false teachings that attempt to trip them up. How can we guard against such things in our own lives and in our churches?

The only way to spot false teaching is if we know the real teaching! Study God’s Word for yourself. It’s as essential to life as maps are to hiking. Keep watch over yourself and those next to you. When we’re out on the trail, we continually “check in” with each other and then take action at the first sign of dehydration or discouragement in a teammate. Let’s be vigilant over the hearts of our brothers and sisters in the faith. We’re on this expedition together!

Insight: Are you regularly studying the Bible for yourself? Are you in community with others who value truth over trendy philosophy?