Lesson 7 Unit 1 Choice 2

For Unit 1 I chose Choice 2: 2 Peter 2. Teaching

1. Read 2 Peter 2: 1-19. Record characteristics of false teachers described by Peter. Explain in writing how your list helps you recognize false teachers today.

• covetous 
• walk after the flesh
• lust of uncleanness
• despise government
• presumptuous 
• self-willed
• speak evil of things they do not understand
• find pleasure in rioting 
• having eyes full of adultry
• beguiling unstable souls
• forsaken the right way 
• follows the way of Balaam
• vain
• allure with the lusts of the flesh
• servants of corruption

I think these characteristics are timeless in defining false teachers. Even today, you can spot someone that is covetous or that tries and debate for things that they do not fully understand; like the temple. All of these characteristics define the type of person that I do not want to associate with and that I try to avoid.

2. Read 2 Peter 2:20-22; D&C 82:3,7. In your own words, write a few sentences describing the dangers of returning to the "pollutions of the world."

To return to the "pollutions of the world" means that after sinning the first time, you repent and are forgiven, then you go and sin again which is far worse. It also means that it is worse for someone that knows the gospel and its teachings to willingly stray from it.  D&C 82:7 also states that the former sins will return and it will be that much harder to repent and be forgiven.