The “doctrine of Balaam” (ἡ διδαχή Βαλαάμ) is the wicked strategy of enticing others to sin by encouraging them to “eat food offered to idols” and to engage in sexual immorality (Rev. 2:14). This was how Balaam was able finally to curse the Israelites at Baal Peor, after all (see Num. 25:1-10; 31:16). In short, Balaam’s doctrine was one of “syncretism,” advocating a mindless “tolerance” that arrogantly claimed that all religions are equally true, and therefore all are equally false… Such “tolerance” is a charade for moral and spiritual nihilism that creates weakened people easily controlled by political fascism. In ancient Rome, official “tolerance” led to the brutal intolerance of the “Imperial Cult” where the power of the State (represented by the Emperor) was worshiped. In our age, the doctrine of Balaam first entices people to “eat food offered to idols,” that is, to partake in the irrational dogma of “absolute tolerance” and unthinking universalism. After opening the heart to accept such idolatry, sexual immorality is the natural expression, a consequence of self-deception. We must remain vigilant: God sets us free from the slavery of surrounding culture to become a witness of the truth. Assimilating with this world and its political ideals and cultural idols is a form of spiritual adultery. Do not fool yourself: Whoever makes himself a friend of the world is an enemy of God (James 4:4).
Hebrew Lesson:
