Chapter 16: How to Help Those Influenced by Dake

When someone you love has absorbed false teaching, the path to correction requires wisdom, patience, and above all, love. Millions of sincere Christians have trusted Finis Dake’s theological system, building their understanding of God, salvation, and Scripture on his flawed foundation. These aren’t rebels deliberately choosing heresy—they’re sheep who’ve followed a voice they believed was leading them to truth. Helping them requires more than simply pointing out errors; it demands a pastoral heart that understands their journey, respects their sincerity, and gently guides them toward biblical orthodoxy. This chapter provides practical strategies for pastors, teachers, family members, and friends who want to help those influenced by Dake’s teachings return to sound doctrine without destroying their faith or fracturing relationships.

Dake, Finis Jennings. Dake Annotated Reference Bible. Lawrenceville, GA: Dake Bible Sales, 1963. [All citations to the Dake Bible refer to this edition unless otherwise noted.]

Understanding the Pastoral Challenge

Before attempting to help someone move away from Dake’s errors, we must understand the unique challenges involved. This isn’t like correcting a simple misunderstanding about a Bible verse. For many Dake Bible users, his theological system has become the lens through which they understand everything about God, Scripture, and faith. Challenging Dake means challenging their entire theological worldview, which can feel like an attack on their faith itself.

Consider the emotional investment involved. Many Dake Bible users received their copy as a meaningful gift—perhaps from a parent at baptism, a mentor at conversion, or a spouse on an anniversary. The Bible itself carries emotional and spiritual significance beyond its problematic notes. They’ve marked favorite passages, recorded prayer requests in margins, traced their spiritual journey through its pages. Asking them to set aside this Bible can feel like asking them to abandon these precious memories and milestones.

Furthermore, Dake’s comprehensive system provides answers to virtually every theological question. Users have grown accustomed to finding detailed explanations for difficult passages, charts for understanding prophecy, and confident assertions about mysterious topics. When you challenge Dake’s authority, you’re not just correcting individual errors—you’re removing their primary source of biblical understanding. Unless you provide alternative resources that meet these same needs, they’ll feel spiritually adrift.

This testimony illustrates a crucial principle: how we approach correction matters as much as the correction itself. The apostle Paul instructs us to “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15) and to restore those in error “in a spirit of gentleness” (Galatians 6:1). When dealing with Dake’s influence, these biblical principles aren’t just nice suggestions—they’re essential for effective ministry.

Common Defenses and Gentle Responses

Those who use Dake’s Bible often respond to criticism with predictable defenses. Understanding these defenses and preparing thoughtful responses helps us engage productively rather than argumentatively. Here are the most common defenses you’ll encounter, along with suggested responses that maintain dialogue while presenting truth.

Defense #1: “Dake Just Takes the Bible Literally”

This is perhaps the most common defense. Users argue that Dake simply believes what the Bible says, while critics complicate things with human interpretations. They’ll quote Dake’s own words from his preface:

Gentle Response: “I appreciate your commitment to taking Scripture seriously. That’s exactly what we should do. But there’s a difference between taking the Bible literally and taking it literalistically. When Jesus said ‘I am the door’ (John 10:9), He didn’t mean He was made of wood with hinges. When the Bible says God’s ‘eyes run to and fro throughout the whole earth’ (2 Chronicles 16:9), it doesn’t mean God’s physical eyeballs are rolling around the planet. Even Dake acknowledges that some language is figurative. The question is: how do we determine what’s literal and what’s figurative? Let’s look at some specific examples together and see what Scripture itself teaches us.”

This response affirms their desire to honor Scripture while introducing the concept of literary genres and interpretive principles. It invites exploration rather than imposing conclusions.

Defense #2: “Dake Knew Greek and Hebrew”

Many users point to Dake’s references to original languages as proof of his scholarly authority. They assume someone who cites Greek and Hebrew must understand Scripture better than those who don’t.

Gentle Response: “It’s wonderful that Dake tried to study the original languages—that shows his dedication to understanding Scripture. However, knowing some Greek and Hebrew words doesn’t automatically make someone’s interpretation correct. Many cult leaders also cite Greek and Hebrew to support their false teachings. What matters isn’t whether someone knows the languages but whether they use them accurately. Let me show you how actual Greek and Hebrew scholars—people with PhDs who teach at seminaries—interpret some of these passages differently than Dake. We can check multiple scholarly sources to see if Dake’s language claims hold up.”

This approach respects Dake’s efforts while introducing the concept of scholarly accountability. It shifts focus from credentials to accuracy.

Defense #3: “Dake’s Notes Have Helped Me Understand the Bible”

This defense comes from genuine gratitude. Many users credit Dake’s Bible with deepening their faith, answering their questions, and drawing them closer to God.

Gentle Response: “I’m so glad you’ve been studying God’s Word and growing in your faith. That’s wonderful! God can use imperfect tools to accomplish His purposes—He’s used imperfect people like all of us. But just because something has been helpful doesn’t mean everything in it is accurate. Even a broken clock is right twice a day. The question isn’t whether Dake’s Bible has some helpful content—it does. The question is whether the errors mixed in with the truth are serious enough to be concerned about. Can we look at a few specific teachings together and compare them with what the broader church has historically believed? I think you’ll find this interesting rather than threatening.”

This response validates their positive experience while introducing the need for discernment. It frames examination as an interesting exploration rather than an attack.

Defense #4: “You’re Just Attacking Dake Because He Wasn’t Part of the Religious Establishment”

Some users see criticism of Dake as elitist attacks from seminaries and denominations threatened by an “outsider” who didn’t have their formal credentials.

Gentle Response: “I understand that concern—sometimes the ‘establishment’ does resist truth from unexpected sources. The Pharisees rejected Jesus, after all. But being an outsider doesn’t automatically make someone right, and being part of the establishment doesn’t automatically make someone wrong. What matters is whether teaching aligns with Scripture and the core truths Christians have believed for 2,000 years. When Dake teaches that God has a physical body or that the Trinity is three separate Gods, he’s not bringing fresh insight—he’s repeating errors the church dealt with centuries ago. Let’s evaluate his teachings based on Scripture, not on whether he had formal education.”

This validates their anti-establishment concerns while refocusing on biblical truth rather than credentials.

Defense #5: “No One’s Theology Is Perfect”

This relativistic defense suggests that since everyone makes mistakes, Dake’s errors aren’t particularly serious.

Gentle Response: “You’re absolutely right that none of us has perfect theology. We all see through a glass darkly (1 Corinthians 13:12). But there’s a difference between being wrong about secondary issues and being wrong about the fundamental nature of God. If I’m wrong about the timing of the rapture, that’s a secondary issue. But if I’m wrong about whether God is one or three separate beings, that’s a primary issue that affects the very foundation of Christianity. The early church distinguished between disagreements among believers and heresies that put someone outside the faith. Dake’s errors about God’s nature fall into that second, more serious category. Would you like to see why Christians have always considered these particular issues so important?”

This acknowledges human limitations while maintaining that some truths are essential. It introduces the concept of theological triage—distinguishing between primary and secondary issues.

Defense #6: “I’ve Never Noticed These Errors”

Many users, focused on the biblical text itself, haven’t paid careful attention to Dake’s more problematic notes.

Gentle Response: “That’s actually very common and speaks well of you—it means you’ve been focusing on Scripture itself rather than the notes. Many people use study Bibles without carefully reading all the commentary. But the errors are there, and they can subtly influence how we understand God and Scripture even when we don’t realize it. Let me show you some specific examples from Dake’s notes. I think you’ll be surprised by what he actually teaches. Once you see these things, you can decide for yourself whether they’re concerning.”

This response affirms their focus on Scripture while creating openness to examining the notes more carefully. It empowers them to evaluate rather than simply accept conclusions.

Building Trust Before Correcting Error

Trust is the essential foundation for theological correction. Without it, even the most accurate teaching will be rejected. Building trust requires patience, genuine relationship, and demonstrated care for the person beyond their theological errors. This section provides practical strategies for establishing the trust necessary for effective correction.

Demonstrate Biblical Commitment

Before addressing Dake’s errors, establish yourself as someone who deeply loves and respects Scripture. Those influenced by Dake often fear that critics want to undermine biblical authority or introduce liberal theology. Counter this fear by consistently demonstrating your own high view of Scripture.

In conversations, regularly reference Bible passages. In teaching, emphasize “thus says the Lord” rather than human opinion. Share testimonies of how God’s Word has transformed your life. Make it clear that your concern about Dake comes from loyalty to Scripture, not opposition to it. When people see that you treasure God’s Word as much as they do, they’re more likely to consider that your concerns might be valid.

One effective approach is to teach through books of the Bible verse by verse, demonstrating careful attention to the text before introducing any criticism of Dake’s interpretations. This establishes your credibility as a serious Bible student who respects the text enough to challenge misinterpretations.

Acknowledge What’s Good

Dake’s Bible contains much that is commendable. Acknowledging these positive elements demonstrates fairness and prevents defensive reactions. You might say something like:

“Dake’s passion for Scripture is obvious and admirable. His Bible contains extensive cross-references that help connect related passages. Many of his historical and cultural notes provide helpful background. His emphasis on the supernatural and spiritual gifts resonates with those who believe God still works miraculously today. These positive elements make the serious errors more dangerous—they’re mixed with enough truth to seem credible.”

This balanced approach shows you’re not simply “anti-Dake” but concerned about specific, serious problems. It also helps users understand that you’re not asking them to abandon everything they’ve learned, just to correct specific errors.

Share Your Own Journey

If you’ve personally had to correct theological errors in your own understanding, share that journey. This vulnerability creates connection and removes the “us versus them” dynamic. You might share:

“I understand how hard it is to realize something you’ve believed isn’t biblical. I once believed [specific error] because [trusted source] taught it. When I discovered the biblical truth, I felt confused, even betrayed. But ultimately, aligning my beliefs with Scripture brought greater joy and deeper faith. I’m not pointing fingers—I’m sharing what I’ve learned through my own sometimes painful growth.”

This approach positions you as a fellow traveler rather than a superior critic. It normalizes the process of theological correction as part of spiritual growth rather than a shameful failure.

Invest in Relationship

Theological correction works best within genuine relationship. If possible, invest time in getting to know those you’re trying to help beyond their theological views. Share meals together. Pray for their concerns. Celebrate their joys and mourn their sorrows. When people know you care about them as individuals, not just as theological projects, they’re far more open to hearing difficult truths.

This relational investment can’t be rushed or faked. It requires genuine Christian love that sees people as precious souls created in God’s image, not as problems to solve. Sometimes the relationship building must continue for months before any theological discussion becomes productive.

Demonstrate Humility

Approach theological correction with genuine humility. You might be wrong about some things too. Your understanding, while perhaps more accurate than Dake’s, isn’t perfect. This humility should be evident in how you speak and teach.

Use phrases like “Let’s explore this together” rather than “Let me tell you the truth.” Say “Here’s what I’ve come to understand” rather than “Here’s what you need to know.” Ask questions that promote discovery rather than making pronouncements that demand acceptance. This humble approach reduces defensiveness and creates space for genuine learning.

Small Group Study Suggestions

Small groups provide ideal settings for addressing Dake’s errors. The interactive format allows for questions, processing, and personal discovery that sermon settings don’t permit. Here are detailed suggestions for leading effective small group studies that correct false teaching while building biblical understanding.

A 13-Week Curriculum: “Knowing God Truly”

This curriculum addresses Dake’s major errors without initially naming him, allowing participants to discover biblical truth before confronting specific false teachings.

Week 1: The Importance of Right Theology

Begin by establishing why theology matters. Read passages like Hosea 4:6 (“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge”) and 2 Timothy 2:15 (“Study to show yourself approved”). Discuss how wrong ideas about God affect our worship, prayer, and daily living. Share examples of how correcting theological errors has strengthened faith. Create an atmosphere where questioning and learning are welcomed, not feared.

Key Discussion Questions:

• Why does God care what we believe about Him?
• How might wrong beliefs about God’s nature affect our relationship with Him?
• What’s the difference between disagreeing on secondary issues and being wrong about primary doctrines?
• How can we pursue theological accuracy while maintaining humility?

Week 2: How to Study the Bible Accurately

Teach basic hermeneutical principles without mentioning Dake. Cover the importance of context, literary genres, and the analogy of faith (Scripture interprets Scripture). Use obvious examples of figurative language to demonstrate that “literal interpretation” doesn’t mean “literalistic interpretation.” Show how different literary genres in Scripture require different interpretive approaches.

Key Discussion Questions:

• What’s the difference between literal and literalistic interpretation?
• How do we determine when biblical language is figurative?
• Why is context crucial for accurate interpretation?
• How can equally sincere Christians reach different interpretations?

Week 3: God Is Spirit—Understanding Divine Nature

Focus on John 4:24 where Jesus explicitly states “God is spirit.” Explore what this means and why it matters. Examine passages that seem to describe God in physical terms, demonstrating how these are anthropomorphisms—descriptions using human characteristics to help us understand God’s actions and attributes. Don’t mention Dake yet, but lay groundwork that contradicts his physical God doctrine.

Key Discussion Questions:

• What does it mean that God is spirit?
• How do we understand passages that mention God’s hands, eyes, or other body parts?
• Why would a physical God be limited in ways the Bible says God isn’t?
• How does God being spirit affect how we worship Him?

Week 4: The Trinity—Unity in Diversity

Present orthodox Trinitarian doctrine: one God in three persons. Use the Athanasian Creed and biblical passages to establish that Christianity is monotheistic, not tritheistic. Explain how the three persons share one divine essence while maintaining distinct personhood. This directly contradicts Dake’s three Gods teaching without naming him.

Key Discussion Questions:

• How can God be both one and three?
• What’s the difference between “persons” and “beings” in Trinitarian doctrine?
• Why is it important that we worship one God, not three?
• How does the Trinity differ from polytheism?

Week 5: God’s Omnipresence—Everywhere Present

Explore Psalm 139:7-10, Jeremiah 23:24, and Acts 17:27-28 to establish God’s omnipresence. Explain how a God with a physical body couldn’t be omnipresent. Discuss the comfort and challenge of serving a God from whom we cannot hide and who is always near. This undermines Dake’s teaching about God being localized in heaven.

Key Discussion Questions:

• What does it mean that God is omnipresent?
• How can God be fully present everywhere simultaneously?
• What’s the difference between God’s presence and God’s manifest presence?
• How does God’s omnipresence affect our daily lives?

Week 6: God’s Omniscience—All-Knowing

Study passages like Psalm 147:5, Isaiah 46:10, and 1 John 3:20 that affirm God’s complete knowledge. Explain how prophecy depends on God knowing the future exhaustively. Contrast this with Dake’s teaching that God learns and discovers. Emphasize the comfort of serving a God who is never surprised or caught off-guard.

Key Discussion Questions:

• What does it mean that God is omniscient?
• How can God know the future if humans have free will?
• Why would a God who learns be less trustworthy than an all-knowing God?
• How does God’s omniscience affect our prayer life?

Week 7: God’s Omnipotence—Unlimited Power

Examine Job 42:2, Matthew 19:26, and Revelation 19:6 to establish God’s unlimited power. Clarify that omnipotence doesn’t mean God can do logical contradictions (like make a square circle) but that nothing consistent with His nature is impossible for Him. This contradicts Dake’s limitations on divine power.

Key Discussion Questions:

• What does it mean that God is omnipotent?
• Are there things God cannot do? Why or why not?
• How does God’s omnipotence relate to the problem of evil?
• What comfort comes from serving an all-powerful God?

Week 8: Unity in Christ—Breaking Down Walls

Study Galatians 3:28, Ephesians 2:14-16, and Revelation 7:9 to establish God’s design for racial unity in Christ. Without mentioning Dake’s racial teachings yet, establish the biblical vision of one new humanity in Christ. Discuss how the gospel breaks down barriers that divide people.

Key Discussion Questions:

• How does the gospel address racial division?
• What does it mean that Christ makes us one new humanity?
• How should the church model racial reconciliation?
• What barriers still need to be broken down in our fellowship?

Week 9: Creation and Gap Theories—What Scripture Says

Examine Genesis 1 carefully, discussing various interpretations while demonstrating that the “gap theory” lacks solid biblical support. Show how speculation about pre-Adamic races and prehistoric worlds goes beyond what Scripture reveals. Emphasize the sufficiency of biblical revelation without naming Dake’s specific theories.

Key Discussion Questions:

• What does Genesis 1 clearly teach about creation?
• Where does Scripture stop and speculation begin?
• How should we handle questions the Bible doesn’t answer?
• What’s the danger of building doctrine on speculation?

Week 10: Evaluating Teachers and Teaching

Study biblical warnings about false teachers (Matthew 7:15-20, 2 Peter 2:1-3, 1 John 4:1-3). Provide criteria for evaluating any teacher or teaching. Discuss how to separate helpful insights from harmful errors. This prepares participants to evaluate Dake’s teachings themselves rather than simply accepting your critique.

Key Discussion Questions:

• How can we recognize false teaching?
• What’s the difference between a mistaken teacher and a false teacher?
• How should we respond when teachers we respect are shown to have errors?
• What safeguards can we implement to avoid being deceived?

Week 11: The History of Heresy

Survey major heresies in church history—Arianism, Modalism, Nestorianism, etc. Show how Dake’s errors parallel ancient heresies without initially naming him. Explain why the church developed creeds to guard against these errors. This helps participants understand that Dake’s teachings aren’t new insights but old errors.

Key Discussion Questions:

• Why do the same errors keep appearing throughout history?
• How did the early church respond to false teaching?
• What role do creeds and confessions play in protecting truth?
• How can studying church history help us avoid errors?

Week 12: Examining the Dake Bible

Finally, directly address Dake’s teachings. By now, participants have enough biblical grounding to recognize the errors themselves. Present specific quotes from Dake’s notes, comparing them with the biblical truths studied in previous weeks. Allow participants to draw conclusions rather than imposing them.

Key Discussion Questions:

• How do Dake’s teachings compare with what we’ve studied?
• Which of his errors are most serious? Why?
• How might someone come to believe these errors?
• What should we do if we’ve been influenced by these teachings?

Week 13: Moving Forward in Truth

Focus on grace, restoration, and growth. Emphasize that everyone’s theology needs ongoing refinement. Provide recommended resources to replace the Dake Bible. Discuss how to help others still influenced by these errors. Close with prayer for wisdom, discernment, and unity in truth.

Key Discussion Questions:

• How do we correct our theology without losing our faith?
• What resources can help us continue growing in biblical understanding?
• How can we help others without being judgmental or harsh?
• What have we learned about the importance of sound doctrine?

Recommended Replacement Resources

One of the most crucial aspects of helping someone move away from the Dake Bible is providing quality alternatives. Simply removing a flawed resource without replacement leaves a vacuum that may be filled by something equally problematic. This section provides detailed recommendations for study Bibles, commentaries, and other resources that can meet the legitimate needs Dake’s Bible addressed while maintaining theological orthodoxy.

Study Bible Recommendations

When recommending alternative study Bibles, consider the specific needs and background of the person you’re helping. Different study Bibles serve different purposes and audiences.

For Pentecostal/Charismatic Believers: The Fire Bible (NIV or KJV)

The Fire Bible, published by Hendrickson Publishers in collaboration with Life Publishers International, provides extensive notes from a Pentecostal perspective while maintaining orthodox theology. Its notes affirm the continuation of spiritual gifts and the supernatural work of God without falling into Dake’s heresies. The Fire Bible includes articles on topics important to Pentecostal believers: the baptism of the Holy Spirit, spiritual warfare, divine healing, and revival. Unlike Dake’s Bible, it maintains the biblical teaching that God is spirit and that the Trinity is one God in three persons, not three separate Gods.

This study Bible particularly helps those transitioning from Dake because it addresses similar themes—the supernatural, spiritual gifts, end times—but from a biblically sound perspective. Its extensive notes on revival and the Holy Spirit’s work appeal to those who valued Dake’s emphasis on spiritual things while correcting his errors about God’s nature.

For Comprehensive Study: The ESV Study Bible

The ESV Study Bible, published by Crossway, offers perhaps the most comprehensive orthodox study Bible available today. With over 20,000 study notes, 240 full-color maps and illustrations, and 200 charts, it rivals Dake’s Bible in comprehensiveness while maintaining theological accuracy. The notes are written by ninety-five evangelical scholars and teachers, providing scholarly depth without sacrificing readability.

What makes this particularly valuable for former Dake users is its extensive coverage of difficult passages and theological topics. Where Dake offered confident but wrong answers, the ESV Study Bible provides careful, biblically grounded explanations. Its articles on biblical theology, the history of salvation, and biblical doctrine provide solid foundation for those rebuilding their theological understanding.

For Dispensational Believers: The MacArthur Study Bible

Many Dake Bible users appreciate dispensational theology but need a version without Dake’s extremes. The MacArthur Study Bible, available in multiple translations, provides conservative, dispensational notes without the heresies. John MacArthur’s notes maintain a high view of Scripture and provide detailed explanations of difficult passages.

While MacArthur would disagree with Pentecostal believers on certain issues (particularly the continuation of spiritual gifts), his notes on God’s nature, the Trinity, and salvation are thoroughly orthodox. His emphasis on careful biblical exposition helps readers learn to study Scripture properly, not just accept someone’s notes uncritically.

For Basic Understanding: The Life Application Study Bible

For those who need to rebuild their theological foundation from basics, the Life Application Study Bible provides clear, practical notes that emphasize biblical truth and daily application. While less comprehensive than other options, its straightforward approach helps readers grasp essential truths without getting lost in complex theological discussions.

This Bible particularly helps those overwhelmed by discovering their theological errors. Its focus on practical Christian living provides stability while they sort through doctrinal issues. The extensive application notes show how correct theology leads to transformed living.

Commentary Recommendations

In addition to a good study Bible, those leaving Dake’s influence need solid commentaries for deeper study. Here are recommended commentary series at various levels:

For Beginners: The Bible Exposition Commentary by Warren Wiersbe

Wiersbe’s six-volume commentary set provides clear, devotional exposition of the entire Bible. His warm, pastoral style makes complex passages accessible without sacrificing accuracy. These commentaries help readers understand not just what the Bible says but how it applies to life. Wiersbe avoids the speculation that characterizes Dake’s notes, focusing instead on what Scripture clearly teaches.

For Intermediate Study: The New American Commentary Series

This forty-volume series from Broadman & Holman provides thorough yet accessible commentary from conservative evangelical scholars. Each volume includes detailed notes on the Hebrew or Greek text (explained in terms laypeople can understand), historical background, theological significance, and practical application. The series maintains biblical inerrancy while avoiding the interpretive extremes found in Dake.

For Advanced Study: The New International Commentary Series

For those ready for seminary-level study, both the New International Commentary on the Old Testament (NICOT) and New International Commentary on the New Testament (NICNT) provide exhaustive scholarly commentary. These volumes interact with the original languages, ancient Near Eastern backgrounds, and the history of interpretation. While more technical than Dake’s notes, they demonstrate the kind of careful scholarship that protects against theological error.

Systematic Theology Resources

Since Dake’s errors primarily concern systematic theology—the nature of God, the Trinity, humanity—those recovering from his influence need solid theological resources:

Wayne Grudem’s “Systematic Theology”

Grudem’s systematic theology has become the standard evangelical text for good reason. It’s comprehensive yet readable, scholarly yet practical. Each chapter includes application questions, hymns related to the doctrine, and memory verses. For those from Pentecostal backgrounds, Grudem’s openness to spiritual gifts makes this particularly helpful—he corrects Dake’s theological errors while affirming the supernatural work of the Spirit.

Millard Erickson’s “Christian Theology”

Erickson provides a more detailed systematic theology that thoroughly examines each doctrine from biblical, historical, and philosophical perspectives. His treatment of the Trinity and God’s attributes directly refutes Dake’s errors while explaining why orthodox doctrine matters. The extensive interaction with church history shows that Dake’s “insights” are actually ancient heresies.

Michael Horton’s “The Christian Faith”

Horton’s systematic theology emphasizes the drama of redemption, showing how all doctrines connect to God’s saving work in Christ. This narrative approach helps former Dake users see the big picture of Christian theology rather than just isolated doctrines. His Reformed perspective provides helpful balance for those from Pentecostal backgrounds.

Online Resources

In our digital age, online resources provide immediate help for those questioning Dake’s teachings:

Bible.org

This website provides thousands of free articles, studies, and resources from conservative evangelical scholars. Their verse-by-verse studies offer solid alternative to Dake’s notes. The site’s emphasis on original language study and historical context helps users learn proper interpretive methods.

The Gospel Coalition

TGC provides articles, videos, and courses on biblical and theological topics. Their resources address many of the same questions Dake attempted to answer but from an orthodox perspective. The variety of contributors shows that orthodox Christianity isn’t monolithic but united on essential doctrines.

Desiring God

John Piper’s ministry website offers extensive free resources on the nature of God, the Trinity, and Christian doctrine. The site’s emphasis on God’s glory and the joy of knowing Him truly helps those recovering from false teaching rediscover the beauty of biblical truth.

Blue Letter Bible

This free online resource provides multiple translations, original language tools, commentaries, and study helps. It allows users to research passages thoroughly without depending on any single study Bible’s notes. The variety of conservative commentaries available helps users see the consensus of orthodox interpretation.

The Goal: Truth in Love

As we work to help those influenced by Dake’s errors, we must constantly remember our goal: not to win arguments but to win people to biblical truth. The apostle Paul’s instruction to “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15) provides our guiding principle. Truth without love becomes harsh and repels those we’re trying to help. Love without truth leaves people in dangerous error. We need both, held in careful balance.

Maintaining the Right Heart

Before engaging in any corrective ministry, examine your own heart. Are you motivated by genuine love for those in error, or by a desire to be right? Do you see them as precious souls for whom Christ died, or as theological problems to solve? Your attitude will communicate more loudly than your words.

Remember that those using Dake’s Bible are usually sincere believers trying to understand God’s Word. They didn’t choose heresy deliberately—they trusted a resource that appeared biblical and comprehensive. They deserve compassion, not condemnation. As Jude instructs, “Have mercy on those who doubt; save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh” (Jude 22-23).

Consider how you would want to be treated if you discovered you’d been wrong about important theological matters. You’d want patience as you processed the information. You’d want gentleness as you dealt with feelings of betrayal and confusion. You’d want support as you rebuilt your theological understanding. Offer others what you would want for yourself.

Practicing Patience

Theological change happens slowly, especially when it involves foundational beliefs about God’s nature. Don’t expect immediate acceptance of your corrections. People need time to:

• Process the information you’re presenting
• Compare it with what they’ve previously believed
• Check Scripture for themselves
• Deal with emotional reactions to being wrong
• Rebuild their theological framework
• Decide how to move forward

This process can take months or even years. Some may need to hear the same truths multiple times before accepting them. Others may accept some corrections while resisting others. Patience means continuing to love and minister to them throughout this journey, not just until you’ve made your point.

One pastor shares his experience: “I had a deacon who used the Dake Bible for forty years. It took two years of patient teaching, private conversations, and careful relationship building before he was ready to acknowledge the errors. But because I didn’t rush him or ultimatum him, when he did change, it was genuine and lasting. He’s now one of our strongest advocates for sound doctrine.”

Avoiding Common Mistakes

In our zeal to correct error, we often make mistakes that hinder our effectiveness. Here are common pitfalls to avoid:

Mistake #1: Making It Personal

Don’t attack Dake personally or those who use his Bible. Focus on specific teachings that contradict Scripture. When you make it personal, people become defensive about the person rather than evaluating the doctrine. You can acknowledge Dake’s sincerity while demonstrating his errors.

Mistake #2: Using Ridicule or Sarcasm

Some of Dake’s teachings seem so obviously wrong that we’re tempted to mock them. Resist this temptation. Ridicule humiliates those who believed these teachings and creates resentment rather than repentance. Treat even obvious errors with seriousness and respect for those who’ve been deceived.

Mistake #3: Creating Unnecessary Division

Not everyone who uses a Dake Bible accepts all his teachings. Some use it primarily for cross-references while ignoring problematic notes. Don’t create division over secondary issues or assume everyone needs the same level of correction. Focus on primary errors about God’s nature while showing grace on lesser matters.

Mistake #4: Overwhelming with Information

When we discover all of Dake’s errors, we’re tempted to dump everything on people at once. This overwhelms and paralyzes rather than helps. Address one or two major issues at a time, allowing people to process each before moving to others. Start with the most serious errors about God’s nature before addressing secondary issues.

Mistake #5: Neglecting Prayer

Theological correction is ultimately spiritual work requiring the Holy Spirit’s illumination. Without prayer, our best arguments fall on deaf ears. Pray for those you’re trying to help—for open hearts, illuminated minds, and genuine understanding. Pray for yourself—for wisdom, patience, and love. Prayer isn’t a preliminary to the real work; it is the real work.

Mistake #6: Forgetting Grace

Remember that salvation is by grace through faith, not by perfect theology. While Dake’s errors are serious and dangerous, someone can be genuinely saved while holding some wrong beliefs. Don’t question people’s salvation simply because they’ve been influenced by false teaching. Focus on helping them grow in truth rather than making them doubt their relationship with Christ.

Celebrating Progress

Recognize and celebrate incremental progress rather than demanding immediate, complete change. When someone acknowledges even one error in Dake’s teaching, that’s progress worth affirming. When they begin questioning other teachings, encourage their growing discernment. When they’re willing to study alternatives, support their efforts.

This celebration shouldn’t be patronizing but genuine recognition that theological growth is difficult work. Share your joy when they discover biblical truth. Express gratitude for their willingness to examine their beliefs. Let them know you’re proud of their courage in facing difficult questions.

One Sunday school teacher reports: “I had a class member who defended Dake fiercely for months. Then one day she said, ‘I’ve been thinking about what you taught about God being spirit, and I can see it in Scripture now.’ I wanted to say, ‘Finally!’ but instead I said, ‘That’s wonderful! Tell me what you’re seeing.’ That encouragement opened the door for her to examine other issues without feeling judged.”

Providing Ongoing Support

Don’t abandon people once they’ve acknowledged Dake’s errors. The journey from false teaching to sound doctrine requires ongoing support. They need:

Emotional Support: Discovering you’ve believed false teaching can trigger a crisis of faith. People wonder what else they might be wrong about. They question their ability to understand Scripture. They may feel angry at those who taught them error or at themselves for believing it. Provide a safe space to process these emotions without judgment.

Educational Support: Help them rebuild their theological foundation with solid resources and patient teaching. Answer questions without making them feel foolish. Recommend books and studies appropriate to their level. Connect them with others who’ve made similar journeys. Education isn’t just information transfer but patient formation of biblical thinking.

Spiritual Support: Pray with them and for them regularly. Help them see how correct theology enhances rather than diminishes their relationship with God. Show them the joy and peace that come from knowing God truly. Worship together, celebrating the God who is actually revealed in Scripture rather than Dake’s diminished deity.

Practical Support: Help them know how to handle their Dake Bible (some may want to keep it for comparison, others need permission to discard it). Assist in finding and perhaps purchasing appropriate replacement resources. Guide them in explaining changes to family members who may not understand. Provide practical help for teaching or ministry situations where they need to correct previous errors.

Special Situations Requiring Extra Care

Some situations require special sensitivity and adapted approaches. These complex scenarios demand extra wisdom, patience, and often outside help.

When Family Members Disagree

One of the most painful situations occurs when family members disagree about Dake’s teachings. Perhaps one spouse sees the errors while the other remains committed to Dake’s interpretation. Or adult children reject what their parents taught them from the Dake Bible, creating intergenerational conflict.

In these situations, prioritize family unity over theological precision. Encourage family members to focus on their shared faith in Christ rather than their disagreements about Dake. Suggest they avoid contentious discussions while individually studying Scripture. Remind them that their family relationship is more important than winning theological arguments.

One couple’s testimony illustrates the challenge: “My husband used the Dake Bible for thirty years and built his entire understanding on it. When I started seeing the errors, he felt I was attacking his faith. We argued constantly, and it almost destroyed our marriage. Finally, our pastor helped us agree to study the Bible together without any study notes—not Dake’s or anyone else’s—just Scripture. Slowly, my husband began seeing the problems himself. It took three years, but our marriage survived because we prioritized our relationship over the debate.”

For families navigating these waters:

• Establish boundaries about discussion to prevent constant conflict
• Focus on shared beliefs rather than disagreements
• Seek pastoral counseling if tensions threaten relationships
• Pray together even when you can’t study together
• Show love through actions when words create conflict
• Be willing to take breaks from theological discussion
• Remember that the Holy Spirit works on His timeline, not ours

When Church Leaders Are Involved

Discovering that your pastor, elder, or teacher uses the Dake Bible creates unique challenges. You need their spiritual leadership, but you’re concerned about the errors they might teach. This requires exceptional wisdom and usually external help.

First, determine whether the leader actually teaches Dake’s errors or simply uses his Bible for reference. Many leaders use study Bibles selectively, accepting helpful notes while rejecting problematic ones. If they’re not teaching the errors, the situation may not require confrontation.

If they are teaching Dake’s errors, follow biblical protocol for addressing leadership issues:

1. Pray extensively before taking any action
2. Approach privately with humility and respect (Matthew 18:15)
3. Present specific concerns with biblical documentation
4. Listen to their response with an open mind
5. If necessary, involve other leaders according to your church’s structure
6. Be prepared to leave graciously if the errors persist and affect core doctrines

Remember that leaders face unique pressures and may need extra time to change positions publicly. They must consider how changes affect their entire congregation, not just themselves. Show extra grace while maintaining commitment to truth.

When Entire Churches Are Affected

Some churches have built their identity around Dake’s teachings, particularly in certain Pentecostal circles. Addressing errors in these contexts requires coordinated, long-term strategy involving multiple leaders.

If you’re a pastor discovering your church has deep Dake influence:

Phase 1: Assessment (Months 1-2)

• Survey how extensively Dake’s teachings have influenced your congregation
• Identify which specific errors have taken root
• Determine which leaders and teachers use Dake resources
• Assess the emotional attachment to Dake’s Bible
• Evaluate available resources for re-education

Phase 2: Leadership Preparation (Months 3-4)

• Educate your leadership team about the issues
• Achieve consensus on approach and timeline
• Prepare leaders to answer questions and provide support
• Identify potential resistance and plan responses
• Ensure leadership unity before public address

Phase 3: Foundational Teaching (Months 5-10)

• Preach series on the nature of God, Trinity, and other core doctrines
• Teach proper biblical interpretation methods
• Establish biblical truth without initially mentioning Dake
• Provide solid resources for deeper study
• Create small groups for processing and discussion

Phase 4: Direct Address (Months 11-12)

• Specifically address Dake’s errors with grace and clarity
• Provide forums for questions and discussion
• Offer pastoral support for those struggling
• Recommend alternative resources
• Celebrate commitment to biblical truth

Phase 5: Ongoing Reinforcement (Year 2 and beyond)

• Continue teaching sound doctrine
• Monitor for resurgence of errors
• Support those still processing changes
• Evaluate progress and adjust approach
• Maintain vigilance against new errors

When Mental Health Issues Are Present

Sometimes those most attached to Dake’s teachings struggle with mental health issues that complicate theological correction. The certainty and comprehensiveness of Dake’s system can appeal to those with anxiety who need definitive answers, or those with obsessive tendencies who fixate on detailed theological systems.

In these situations:

• Prioritize pastoral care over theological precision
• Consider referring to Christian counselors familiar with both theological and mental health issues
• Avoid creating additional anxiety through confrontation
• Focus on God’s love and grace rather than theological errors
• Work with mental health professionals to determine appropriate timing and approach
• Remember that spiritual and mental health are interconnected but distinct

One counselor’s observation: “I’ve noticed that clients with anxiety disorders sometimes cling to theological systems like Dake’s because the detailed answers provide security. Simply attacking that security without providing alternative support can trigger serious anxiety or even faith crisis. We need to build new foundations while carefully dismantling old ones, always monitoring for signs of distress.”

Long-term Strategies for Preventing Dake’s Influence

While helping individuals escape Dake’s errors is important, preventing future influence requires systematic, long-term strategies. Churches, denominations, and Christian institutions must work together to protect believers from these persistent false teachings.

Educational Initiatives

The best defense against false teaching is solid biblical education. Churches must recommit to teaching systematic theology, biblical interpretation, and church history. This doesn’t mean boring lectures but engaging instruction that shows why theology matters for daily Christian life.

For New Believers: Develop comprehensive new believer classes that cover basic Christian doctrine. Include sections on the nature of God, the Trinity, and how to evaluate teaching. Provide new believers with sound study resources from the beginning, preventing exposure to problematic materials.

For Youth: Create age-appropriate theology curriculum for children and teens. Use creative methods—drama, art, music, multimedia—to teach orthodox doctrine. Help young people understand not just what we believe but why we believe it. Equip them to recognize and resist false teaching.

For Adults: Offer regular theology courses that go beyond Sunday school lessons. Cover systematic theology, church history, apologetics, and hermeneutics. Make these courses accessible to working adults through flexible scheduling and online options. Create a culture where theological education is expected, not exceptional.

Institutional Responses

Christian institutions must take responsibility for addressing Dake’s influence within their spheres:

Bible Colleges and Seminaries: Include specific instruction about Dake’s errors in theology and hermeneutics courses. Prepare future pastors to address these issues in their ministries. Develop resources specifically for countering Dake’s influence. Train students to recognize similar errors in other sources.

Publishing Houses: Exercise careful theological review of materials they publish. Provide clear warnings about problematic resources. Develop and promote orthodox alternatives to popular but flawed resources. Consider publishing specific rebuttals to widespread errors.

Denominations: Issue clear position statements about the Dake Bible and its errors. Provide resources for churches dealing with Dake’s influence. Include warnings in ministerial training. Create denominational resources that address the same topics Dake covers but from orthodox perspectives.

Christian Bookstores: Train staff to understand the issues with certain resources. Consider not stocking or at least warning about problematic materials. Promote theologically sound alternatives. Provide information to help customers make informed choices.

Digital Strategies

In our digital age, online presence is crucial for countering false teaching:

Create Counter-Content: Develop websites, videos, and social media content that specifically address Dake’s errors. Optimize this content for search engines so people researching Dake find corrections. Provide free, accessible resources that match the comprehensiveness people expect from Dake.

Engage on Platforms: Monitor and engage in online discussions about Dake’s teachings. Provide gentle, informed corrections in comment sections and forums. Share testimonies of those who’ve left Dake’s errors. Build online communities for those seeking truth.

Develop Apps and Tools: Create Bible study apps that provide orthodox commentary. Develop online courses addressing theological errors. Build interactive tools that help people evaluate teaching. Make sound theology as accessible as false teaching.

Pastoral Networks

Pastors need support networks for addressing Dake’s influence:

Regional Gatherings: Organize pastoral meetings focused on theological issues. Share strategies for addressing false teaching. Provide mutual support and encouragement. Develop coordinated responses to regional challenges.

Resource Sharing: Create libraries of materials pastors can borrow. Share successful teaching series and curricula. Develop joint purchasing agreements for expensive resources. Pool expertise for addressing difficult situations.

Mentorship Programs: Connect experienced pastors with those facing Dake’s influence. Provide guidance based on successful past interventions. Offer emotional and spiritual support during difficult corrections. Create accountability for maintaining orthodox teaching.

Conclusion: The Ministry of Restoration

Helping those influenced by Dake’s errors is ultimately a ministry of restoration—restoring biblical understanding, restoring confidence in God’s Word, restoring joy in knowing God truly, and sometimes restoring relationships damaged by theological conflict. This restoration work requires the patience of a teacher, the gentleness of a shepherd, the wisdom of a counselor, and the love of a faithful friend.

Remember that behind every theological error is a person created in God’s image, someone for whom Christ died. They deserve our respect even as we correct their errors. They need our patience even when progress seems slow. They require our love especially when they resist our help.

The goal isn’t to win arguments but to win hearts to truth. We’re not trying to prove ourselves right but to prove God faithful to His self-revelation in Scripture. We don’t seek to destroy faith but to establish it on solid foundation. We don’t aim to divide the body of Christ but to unite it around biblical truth.

As we close this chapter on helping those influenced by Dake, remember that this work is part of the church’s ongoing mission to “contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints” (Jude 3). Every generation faces its own challenges to biblical truth. Every era produces its own popular errors. Our task isn’t to eliminate all false teaching—that won’t happen until Christ returns—but to faithfully guard, teach, and transmit biblical truth to our generation and the next.

Those trapped in Dake’s errors need more than correct theology—they need the patient, loving ministry of fellow believers who will walk with them from error to truth. Will you be that minister of grace? Will you speak truth in love to those who need it? Will you patiently restore those caught in theological error?

The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. May God raise up an army of gentle, wise, patient servants who will help those influenced by Dake’s errors return to biblical orthodoxy. And may their restoration bring glory to the God who is actually revealed in Scripture—infinite, spiritual, omnipresent, omniscient, omnipotent, one in essence, three in person, worthy of all worship, praise, and obedience forever.

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