In Matthew 7:15, Jesus warns his followers: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” This metaphor of false prophets as wolves in sheep’s clothing is a vivid illustration that conveys an important truth: not everyone claiming to speak God’s word actually does.
To understand Jesus’ warning, it’s helpful to provide some context. In the first century AD, prophecy was common in both Jewish and Greco-Roman religious circles. Prophets claimed to bring messages directly from God or the gods. Some prophets wandered from place to place, relying on the charity of those who believed their messages came from divine sources. But not all who claimed prophetic authority actually had it.
Jesus knew false prophets posed a danger to his followers. Though they looked innocent like sheep, their intentions were predatory. So how could Jesus’ audience discern true prophets from false ones? By looking at the fruit of their lives and messages (Matthew 7:16-20). Authentic prophets empowered God’s people and produced spiritual fruit through righteous living. False prophets exploited believers to satisfy their greed and sinful desires.
This principle applies today. Those who claim to speak for God while living unrighteously expose themselves as wolves in sheep’s clothing. No amount of charisma, charm, or appearance of godliness can cover up corrupt character and heretical teaching. Jesus says we will be able to recognize false prophets by their fruit – meaning their lifestyle, their impact, and their doctrine.
Specifically, we can apply Jesus’ warning by asking some diagnostic questions about modern-day prophets and teachers:
- Does their message align with Scripture?
- Do their predictions reliably come true?
- Does their teaching produce Christlike maturity in themselves and others?
- Are they focused on drawing attention to themselves or glorifying God?
- Do they live with integrity regarding money, sex, and power?
If the answer to any of these questions is no, exercise caution. A true prophet points people to Jesus. False prophets point people to themselves.
1. Definition of a False Prophet
The Bible describes a false prophet as someone who falsely claims to speak God’s words, usually for personal gain. Jesus said “By their fruit you will recognize them” (Matthew 7:16). Their teachings and actions will eventually show them to be false representatives of God. Key characteristics of false prophets include:
- Claiming divine authority and speaking in God’s name when He has not sent them (Jeremiah 23:21)
- Prophesying things that never come to pass (Deuteronomy 18:22)
- Leading God’s people into false doctrines, idolatry and unrighteous practices (Jeremiah 23:13-14)
- Exploiting people for money, sexual favors, or influence (2 Peter 2:1-3)
In contrast, true prophets speak God’s truth, encourage righteous living, and exalt the Lord rather than themselves. Their messages align with Scripture and their character reflects the heart of God.
2. Old Testament Examples of False Prophets
The Old Testament contains several accounts of false prophets misleading Israel:
- Hananiah – He falsely predicted that Babylon’s yoke over Israel would be broken within two years (Jeremiah 28). Jeremiah rebuked him for deceiving the people.
- Prophets of Baal – 450 prophets of Baal and 400 prophets of Asherah ate at Jezebel’s table and led Israel into idolatry (1 Kings 18:19). Elijah challenged the prophets to a showdown, resulting in their destruction.
- Unnamed prophets who prophesy peace when there is no peace – These prophets provided superficially comforting messages that were lies and gave false assurances of safety (Jeremiah 6:14, 8:11).
False prophets were motivated by greed, the desire for prestige, and the wish to please corrupt leaders. The prophets of Baal enhanced Jezebel’s power. Others told lies to gain favor with political leaders. True prophets like Jeremiah, Elijah and Elisha spoke God’s words regardless of consequences.
3. New Testament Warnings About False Prophets
Jesus and his apostles warned many times about false prophets signaling the end times:
- Jesus said false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive people (Matthew 24:24).
- The Apostle Peter predicted false teachers will secretly introduce destructive heresies, exploit people, and bring swift destruction on themselves (2 Peter 2:1-3).
- The Apostle John warned against false prophets who deny Christ has come in the flesh, demonstrating the spirit of antichrist (1 John 4:1-3).
- Paul exposed the false prophet Elymas, who tried to turn an official from the faith (Acts 13:6-11).
These New Testament passages indicate how false prophets will proliferate in the end times. Even apparent miracles or supernatural signs cannot be trusted if they draw people away from the truth of the biblical gospel.
4. How to Identify False Prophets Today
The Bible equips us to discern false prophets in the church age. Consider these principles:
- Measure their words against Scripture – Any teaching contradicting the Bible reflects human error or deceit, not divine revelation (Isaiah 8:20).
- Watch their lives and fruit – False prophets disguise themselves as believers but inwardly are ravenous wolves (Matthew 7:15-20). Examine how they live.
- Beware of covetousness and exploitation – False prophets often seek money, sexual immorality, power and influence (2 Peter 2:1-3).
- Remember Satan disguises himself as an angel of light – Wonderful signs and apparent miracles cannot be trusted if the message contradicts Scripture (2 Corinthians 11:13-15).
Additionally, Deuteronomy 13 and 18 give the test of fulfilled prophecy. Anyone proclaiming a sign or wonder that doesn’t come true has not spoken for the Lord. Finally, remember false prophets ultimately point people to themselves rather than exalting Jesus Christ.
5. Dangers of False Prophets
False prophets pose severe dangers both to individuals and entire church congregations:
- They lead people astray through counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders (Matthew 24:24). Even believers can be deceived.
- Their lies induce belief in false doctrines, diluting or contradicting the truth of Scripture (Jeremiah 23:16-17).
- They prey upon vulnerable people in the congregation for sexual sin, abuse, or financial gain (2 Peter 2:1-3).
- They create spiritual confusion, anxiety, and disillusionment that causes some to abandon their faith.
- They hinder people from believing the genuine Gospel.
For these reasons, Jesus emphatically warned his followers, “See to it that no one deceives you” (Matthew 24:4). Knowing Scripture, walking in discernment, and testing every message is essential for avoiding deception.
6. Our Response to False Prophets
Scripture guides our response when confronting false prophets:
- Avoid their influence – John advises believers to test the spirits and not believe every spirit (1 John 4:1). Stay away from false teachers.
- Reject their message – We must turn away from those who teach false doctrines, not welcoming or bidding them any success (2 John 1:10).
- Rebuke them – Titus 1:13 says rebuke false prophets sharply so they will become sound in the faith. Don’t stand idly by.
- Remove them – Romans 16:17 says to watch out for those who promote doctrines contrary to the apostles’ teachings. Have nothing to do with them.
Additionally, believers should continue speaking God’s truth. The best way to expose darkness is to let light shine.
7. Hope of Deliverance From False Prophets
Despite the dangers false prophets pose, Scripture provides hope that God protects His people:
- God promises to destroy those who falsely claim to speak in His name (Jeremiah 14:14-15). Judgment awaits them.
- Jesus says the elect cannot be deceived by false messiahs and prophets (Matthew 24:24). God preserves His own.
- Believers have the Holy Spirit and His discernment to recognize falsehood (1 John 4:1-6).
- Scripture thoroughly equips Christians to test teaching and reject error (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
The Lord remains faithful to guard His sheep from wolves in sheep’s clothing. He gives discernment to avoid deception. Clinging to Jesus, the true Shepherd and Guardian of our souls (1 Peter 2:25), keeps us secure in the truth.
8. Examples of Modern Day False Prophets & their Teachings
Throughout church history, many false prophets have arisen to lead believers astray. Some modern day examples include:
- Sun Myung Moon – Founded the Unification Church, blending biblical themes with worship of Moon and his wife as messiahs.
- David Koresh – As leader of the Branch Davidians, he claimed to be the Son of God and persuaded followers to engage in armed conflict.
- Jim Jones – Jones’ People Temple cult committed mass suicide based on his claims to be the reincarnation of Jesus, Buddha and Lenin.
- Wayne Bent – Leads the Lord Our Righteousness Church and claims to be divine while making sexual demands on female followers.
- Rael – Founder of the Raelian Movement which teaches life on Earth was created by aliens through genetic engineering.
Additionally, some prosperity gospel preachers make huge profits by promising health and wealth to donors, while living lavish lifestyles themselves. Other faith healers use psychological manipulation and stagecraft to simulate miraculous healings.
9. How Should Churches Respond to False Prophets Today?
Churches should take the threat of false prophets and teachers very seriously. Here are some recommendations:
- Equip members to discern truth from error by teaching solid biblical doctrine (Titus 1:9).
- Closely monitor visiting speakers/teachers; don’t give an uncontrolled platform.
- Investigate credibility of any who claim to have a prophetic message.
- Intervene and, if necessary, discipline members who promote false teaching (Titus 3:10).
- Set an example by boldly denouncing false doctrine and withdrawing support from false teachers.
- Provide counseling/support for those led astray to help them back to biblical truth.
- Focus on Jesus Christ as the cornerstone and spiritual protection against deception (1 John 4:1-6).
Churches that teach truth and shepherd their flocks wisely can inoculate themselves against wolves in sheep’s clothing seeking to gain influence.
10. How Can Individuals Be Protected From False Prophets?
Believers can take these steps to avoid being deceived:
- Pray for spiritual discernment and wisdom (James 1:5).
- Know your Bible well and recognize Scripture’s core doctrines.
- Be wary of extrabiblical prophecies or teachings.
- Evaluate teachers’ lives, character, and the fruit of their ministries (Matthew 7:15-20).
- Test prophetic messages against Scripture (Isaiah 8:20); reject anything contradicting the Bible.
- Don’t fall for appeals to personal experience over biblical authority.
- Avoid isolating yourself from trusted Bible teachers and accountability.
- Measure phenomena like miracles and healings against Scripture’s warnings of deception.
- Trust the Holy Spirit’s leading as He guides you into truth (John 16:13).
Submitting ourselves to Christ and His Word protects us from deception. Jesus declared God’s truth sets us free from spiritual bondage and darkness (John 8:32). Stay rooted in Scripture.