Why Do Some Christians Point Out That Well-Known, Morally Good People Are Spiritually Lost or Taught False Doctrine?

Let me paint a picture for you. Christian ‘A’ admires the work of a person they respect because they fight for family values and Christian morals. Perhaps this person has had a positive impact on our country and even encouraged others to think about Jesus. When this person dies, Christian ‘A’ posts online, praising their influence and legacy. There’s nothing inherently wrong with that, and they are not obligated to speak about the person’s spiritual state or their religious group’s teachings.

However, it’s not uncommon for Christian ‘B’ to comment: “I am thankful for the good that person did, but it's unfortunate they never obeyed the gospel and taught error as part of their religious tradition.” At first glance, this may seem harsh or unkind. Why can’t we just celebrate the good and remain silent about doctrinal issues?

Yet, when we step back and consider the reasoning, Scripture, and sound logic, it gives us insight into why some feel compelled to speak up.

I can’t speak for every Christian who posts such comments, but I believe most don’t do it to tear others down. Instead, they aim to guard the truth of the gospel and prevent spiritual confusion. Their intent is not to nitpick but to faithfully uphold God’s truth in a world where silence can be misinterpreted as agreement.

Let me explain further:

1. Truth Must Be Clear, Even While Recognizing Good (Romans 10:2–3)

Paul praised the zeal of his Jewish brethren, yet made it clear their zeal was "not according to knowledge." He said, “For they being ignorant of God's righteousness… have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.” This illustrates a key principle: good intentions and commendable actions don’t replace obedience to the gospel. We must reason that zeal and sincerity don’t override truth.

2. Silence Can Mislead Others (Ezekiel 3:18; Acts 20:26–27)

Paul could say he was "innocent of the blood of all men" because he had not shunned to declare the whole counsel of God. From a logical standpoint, silence in the face of doctrinal error may unintentionally imply endorsement. If a younger or weaker Christian sees only praise for a popular teacher, without qualification, they might assume that person's doctrines are also sound. Christian ‘B’ speaks up to prevent that confusion.

3. Avoiding Unintentional Endorsement (2 John 9–11)

John warned about giving false teachers even the appearance of approval. While the context involves direct fellowship, the principle extends to public communication. Logical inference is crucial here: if we praise someone publicly, others may conclude that we affirm everything they taught. Scripture teaches us to avoid even the appearance of endorsing error (1 Thess. 5:22).

4. Influence Spreads Quietly but Powerfully (1 Cor. 15:33; Gal. 5:9)

False teaching is like leaven because it spreads subtly and deeply. From logical and spiritual perspectives, failing to expose the false teachings of influential figures can unintentionally lead others to adopt those views. Christian ‘B’ sees that risk and feels compelled to speak the whole truth, even when it’s uncomfortable.

5. True Love Warns with Clarity (Ephesians 4:15)

Some believe pointing out error is unloving, but Scripture teaches the opposite. To “speak the truth in love” means combining clarity with compassion. Real love doesn’t flatter or obscure truth, it warns. When a person dies without ever obeying the gospel, the most loving thing we can do is be honest about that, not to condemn them, but to help others avoid being led astray.

6. Faithful Reasoning Requires Clear Definitions and Necessary Inference

Logic and biblical interpretation go hand in hand. When Scripture says, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 7:21), it logically follows that some outwardly good and religious people will still be lost. Failing to draw that necessary inference can lead others into dangerous assumptions. When Christians reason from Scripture, they must do so clearly and consistently, even when it leads to difficult conclusions.

In Summary:

When Christian ‘B’ comments that a well-known individual, despite their good deeds, taught false doctrine or never obeyed the gospel, they aren’t trying to be unkind. They’re thinking about those who read the post, thus trying to prevent confusion, preserve doctrinal clarity, and warn others who may be influenced by what appears to be unqualified praise.

That said, not every death requires public correction. Christian ‘A’ isn’t obligated to speak about doctrine in every tribute, and Christian ‘B’ must remember to speak with gentleness and respect. Again, when such clarification is given, it is often rooted in a sincere desire to honor God’s truth above all else.

In a world where lines are blurred and popularity often replaces principle, we need Christians who will speak with conviction and compassion. May we all strive to uphold the truth and guide others faithfully, even in the most challenging moments.