False Prophets

July 28, 2014 Monday Message:

Jesus: “Beware of false prophets.” Matt. 7:15a ESV

Jesus adds that false prophets come disguised in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves. It’s bad enough that their teaching is untruthful; but they’re also intentionally furthering their agenda through deceit and lying.

Last Sunday, I told our congregation to take out their Bibles, so they could double-check what they’re hearing. At our church, we intend to teach only the truth, so we can stand this test. ALL churches SHOULD be able to withstand this test.

But as more and more mainline denominations deviate from Biblical accuracy, it becomes more challenging to spot the wolf in sheep’s clothing. It’s important that we all fact-check everything that we’re being told. If we’re passive, it’s far too easy to fall victim to the deceit.

How fortunate we are to live at a time when everyone’s cell phone can contain a Bible app. But therefore, as Christian leaders and teachers, we need to fact-check everything we’re saying. If we spit out inaccurate information, we’re in trouble; some teenager has probably already looked it up! 

The early church taught “sola scriptura,” meaning “only scripture,” “only God’s word.” They believed that the Bible is the inspired and authoritative word of God. If all we really need is God’s word, we can exclude a lot of church tradition and individual interpretation, and believe only the facts.

Sticking with God’s Word is a lot easier than trying to sort out sheep and wolves.

Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) meets every Sunday at 10:30am in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This week, Dan Pilla opens up Acts Ch. 5.