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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.

Through your computer, tablet, or smartphone you have at your fingertips the opportunity to hear thousands of teachings from hundreds of teachers. The Internet provides incredible choices…and tremendous danger. From the varying messages of media, you can stay in the main lane or be lured into a perilous detour.

Today’s passage provides a much-needed warning. There are many appealing messages and messengers, but some present teaching outside the body of truth found in Scripture. Watch out for deceiving and dangerous teachers who are, what Jesus calls, ravenous wolves dressed in sheep’s clothing.

How do you spot a misleading teacher? Consider their words, actions, and attitudes. Hold what they say up to Scripture—God’s inerrant Word. Consider their lifestyle. Evaluate their decisions. Sooner or later, what is happening on the inside will be revealed on the outside. The inner seed will produce outward fruit. When you see the fruit then you can discern the seed.

Talking to God

Father, give me biblical discernment. Help me study your Word so I can spot teaching that is outside your truth. Guard me against false teachers—even when their words and presentations are attractive. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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