Matthew 7:15-20

Jesus Teaches about False Teachers

 

16 By their fruit you will recognize them.

 

Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? 17 Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.

 

18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.

 

19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.

 

20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them."

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This is the Word of the Lord ... It is meant to change the way that we think, and the way that we live.

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Commentary by Bob Pardue

What 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.

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 the traditional churches.

Am I saying all 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 with very little time to enjoy the monetary rewards of their ministry.

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.

When Jesus talks about bad trees,he means 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 and you will know the truth when you hear it.

Love in Christ

- Bob

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