Bible Study Lessons – Matthew 7:15-20
You’ve most likely heard this said; “Watch out for false prophets ..”. This is a quote from the Book of Matthew. What did Jesus say about false teachers and how can we be prepared?
How can we know if we are hearing the truth from God with so many deceptions in the world?
To find out more, let’s study this Scripture lesson more closely.
What Did Jesus Say about False Teachers?
“Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves.
You will know them by their fruits. Grapes are not gathered from thorn bushes nor figs from thistles, are they?
So every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit.
A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, nor can a bad tree produce good fruit.
Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
So then, you will know them by their fruits.” – Matthew 7:15-20 NASB
What Did Jesus Says about False Prophets?
False prophets were common in Old Testament times. They prophesied only what the king and the people wanted to hear, claiming it was God’s message.
But, did you know that false teachers are just as common today?
Jesus says to beware of those whose words sound religious but who are motivated by money, fame, or power.
We see these “prophets” all over the TV and radio and many times even in “traditional” churches.
A pastor friend of mine once said; “If the TV preachers can really heal; why don’t they show up at hospitals every day?” This statement has stuck in my mind because it’s so powerful.
The “Evil” Preacher
Am I saying all TV evangelists are evil?
Not at all. There are many great evangelists such as Billy Graham who have made it their life’s work to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to millions. And, they had very little time to enjoy monetary rewards of their ministry.
Good Trees and Bad – What’s the Difference?
It is not that difficult to separate the “good” from the “bad” because the latter will tend to minimize Christ and glorify themselves.
If you encounter a sermon in which most of the sermon is about the minister or about the collection then beware.
What is a False Prophet According to Christ?
When Jesus talks about bad trees, He is describing teachers who deliberately teach false doctrine.
We must examine the teachers’ motives, the direction they are taking, and the results they are seeking.
How Do You Spot a False Teacher?
For a start, use common sense along with God’s guidance through Bible study and listening.
Also, ask the Holy Spirit to guide you to know the truth when you hear it.
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you would like to learn more about how to follow Christ, please take a moment to read John 3:16.