How the Church Loses Discernment: Why Theological Drift Happens Slowly

The church rarely loses discernment through sudden rebellion or open denial of Scripture. More often, it happens slowly, quietly, and relationally, through softened language, subtle authority shifts, and "almost right" teaching that sounds pastoral and wise.
In this episode of Contending for the Word, Dave Jenkins explains how theological drift takes root, why it often goes unnoticed, and how ordinary believers are affected long before doctrinal collapse becomes obvious.
In this episode, you'll learn:
• Why discernment is usually lost incrementally, not explosively.
• How relationships and trust can replace biblical testing.
• What happens when Scripture is affirmed but no longer functions as final authority.
• Why "almost right" teaching is more dangerous than obvious error.
• How drift produces confusion, anxiety, and exhaustion among believers.
• How Christians can remain anchored in Christ without becoming cynical or fearful.
Key passages include Hebrews 2:1, Acts 20:29–30, 1 John 4:1, Acts 17, and Romans 8.
This episode is not reactionary or alarmist. It is a call to steady faithfulness rooted in the sufficiency, clarity, and authority of God's Word.
For more from Contending for the Word, visit:
https://servantsofgrace.org/contending-for-the-word-podcast/