We are living in a day of great spiritual confusion. God has placed pastors and teachers in the church for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, and for the building up of the body of Christ.  The purpose was to bring them into spiritual maturity that they would not be carried away with every wind of doctrine and slight cunning of men who lie in wait to deceive. These are days when there are many winds of doctrine blowing through the church. The greatest defense against deception is a solid foundation in the Word.