Are You Aware or Unaware?

Many people, just like you and me, like to think that they can trust religious leaders; and rightly so. It's no surprise to most that ministers usually rank high in polls concerning people that you can trust. We will often accept whatever a preacher, priest, or rabbi as truth. However, even Jesus told His disciples to beware of false prophets (Matthew 7:15-20).

He said that they might appear like sheep, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. Therefore, we need to know how to recognize, or identify false prophets when we encounter them. In our present times, there many things that go counter to good Christian beliefs. Today's great diversity of teachings suggests that many are being lead astray. Are we concerned about false prophets today? We should be! We need to be reminded of the danger, and know how to spot any "wolves" that might come our way.

I'd like to underscore the point that without a doubt, there will be false prophets! Paul was so concerned about this that he warned the Ephesian elders (Acts 20:28-31), the Church at Corinth (2 Corinthians 11: 13-15); and even the young preacher Timothy (1 Timothy 4:1-3; 2 Timothy 3:1-2).

Other New Testament writers issued their own warnings to others, as well. For example, Peter warned of the rise of false teachers (2 Peter 2:1-3); John called for people to "test the spirits" (1 John 4:1); and Jude wrote of some false prophets who had already arrived (Jude 3-4).

Okay, with so many warnings you can see that this subject shouldn't be taken lightly. But how can we spot these "wolves" when they charmingly show up? Thankfully, we can turn to Jesus and the Word of God! He tells us there are couple of ways to identify false prophets.

First, we can identify them by examining the fruit of their life (Matthew 7:16-20). You see, what is truly in their heart will eventually come out (Mark 7:21-23). Both false teachers, and false prophets are often betrayed by: their greediness; their immorality; and their lust for power. In the end, the true character of these false prophets will be exposed by the fruit of their life!

Secondly, false prophets can be identified by the fruit of their teaching. Watch out for those who: work in secrecy (especially finances) rather than openness (2 Peter 2:1; 2 Corinthians 8:20-21); appeal to covetousness (such as health and wealth) instead of preparing people for what Christians can expect (Acts 14:23; 2 Timothy 3:12); use deceptive words or twisting scripture to support their message ( 2 Timothy 2:14-16; Galatians 1:8-9); teach contrary to the scriptures (Deuteronomy 13:1-4; 1 John 4:1, 6).

Of course, I have only scratched the surface here in regards to identifying false prophets and teachers of the Gospel. I can only hope that I have, in the very least, kindled an awareness of this topic within you. And, that you'll go on to strive to become even more informed.

In the end, it's not necessary to judge the hearts of those who claim to speak for God. One only needs to be wary, alert, and informed in regards to who pervert the scriptures for their purpose. Know what to look for and listen for. Equip yourself to be a "fruit-inspector" by growing strong in the knowledge of God's word (Hosea 4:6)!

Prayer:

Lord, God Almighty, defend us today by your mighty power, so that we may not fall into any sin, and that all our words may so proceed and all our thoughts and actions be so directed as to be always just in your sight. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Have a blessed day,

Chloe