Matthew 7:15-20
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit.
A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit.
Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
Thus you will recognize them by their fruits. (ESV)
1. The Reality of False Prophets.
Their Danger. Seen in Jesus’ caution to beware of them. They are a real and present danger to believers and the church. Beware of them. v. 15.
2. The Recognition of False Prophets.
Jesus tells us how to recognise false prophets:
a. Their deception – They are false. v15.
b. Their deliberateness – They come to you. v15.
c. Their disguise – They blend in. (sheep’s clothing). v15.
d. Their desires – They want to devour – inwardly ravenous. v15.
e. Their distinguishability – You will recognise them. vv16, 20.
f. Their distinctiveness – Their fruit. v16.
g. Their disease – They are diseased trees. vv17, 18.
h. Their destruction – Cut down and thrown in the fire. v19.
3. The Response to False Prophets.
a. A Call to Holiness in our Own Lives.
b. A Call to Discernment in Recognising False Teachers.
Application:
How to Guard Against False Prophets.
1. Know the Word of God:
Regular study and memorization of Scripture will equip believers to discern error.
“I have stored up Your Word in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” – Psalm 119:11.
2. Test Every Spirit:
Evaluate teachings and practices against Scripture:
“But test everything; hold fast what is good.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:21.
3. Stay Rooted in a Faithful Church:
A biblically sound church with elders who teach the whole counsel of God provides protection.
“Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock… I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you.” – Acts 20:28-30