Avoiding false teachers

 "But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies" - 2 Peter 2:1

Whilst looking at a related verse, I can't help but notice that whilst the Bible consistently warns believers to identify and avoid false teachers, the emphasis in modern times in the evangelical church (where indeed there is any such emphasis) is on identifying and avoiding false teaching. 

I think we are indulging the proud conceit that we're kinder to people in general and to Christ's sheep in particular than God is. Let's resolve to repent of this, and follow the ways of the Good Shepherd (who, when on earth, clearly practised the Biblical pattern rather than ours) instead.