“Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls…” — Acts 15:24
“They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.” — 1 John 2:19
From the earliest days of the church, not all who walk among God’s people truly belong to God. In Acts 15, men came from among the brethren, yet they troubled the believers, subverted souls, and distorted truth.
In 1 John 2:19, the Spirit of God makes it plain: “They went out from us, but they were not of us…” Their departure did not create the problem — it revealed it. They were near — but not new. They were present — but not possessed.
Not everyone who comes from us is of us. Some may speak religious words, appear connected, and seem involved. Yet inwardly they lack truth, resist authority, and disturb the work of God.
Illustration #1 — Absalom (2 Samuel 15:1–6)
Absalom stood among God’s people and spoke kindly, appeared loyal, and won the hearts of Israel. Yet he was working to steal the kingdom. “So Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.” (2 Samuel 15:6). His presence was deception. His departure revealed his true nature.
Illustration #2 — Judas Iscariot (John 13:21–30)
Judas walked with Jesus, served among the disciples, and looked the part. Yet he was never truly of them. “Satan entered into him…” (John 13:27). He left — and revealed his true nature.
Believer, be discerning:
- Not every voice is safe.
- Not every influence is sound.
- Not every departure is a loss.
Sometimes, God reveals truth by who leaves. Those who are truly of Christ stay with truth. Those who are not will eventually separate from it.