How does 2 Corinthians 11:13 connect to warnings about false prophets in Matthew 7:15? Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing Meet Angels of Light “Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.” (Matthew 7:15) “For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ.” (2 Corinthians 11:13) Both passages warn that spiritual impostors look harmless—even godly—while hiding deadly motives. Jesus pictures them as wolves wearing wool; Paul says they “masquerade” as Christ’s own messengers. The language is different, but the danger and strategy are identical. Shared Traits of the Counterfeits • Disguise – Sheep’s clothing (Matthew 7:15) – Masquerading as apostles (2 Colossians 11:13) • Deception – “False prophets” and “false apostles” claim divine authority they do not possess. • Destructive intent – “Ravenous wolves” devour (Matthew 7:15). – “Deceitful workers” undermine the gospel (2 Colossians 11:3–4). • Satanic backing – Paul adds: “Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light” (2 Colossians 11:14). False teachers mimic that pattern. Jesus Warned First, Paul Echoes • Matthew 7 is early in Jesus’ ministry; He alerts disciples to coming fakes. • Years later, Paul confronts those very fakes in Corinth, showing Jesus’ words were prophetic and timeless. Recognizing Counterfeits by Their Fruit • Jesus: “By their fruit you will recognize them” (Matthew 7:16–20). • Paul: Look for deviation from “the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ” (2 Colossians 11:3). Practical indicators: – Doctrine: Galatians 1:6-9—any gospel other than Christ crucified is accursed. – Character: 2 Peter 2:1-3—greed, sensuality, and exploitative methods. – Impact: 1 John 4:1-3—true teachers confess Jesus Christ come in the flesh and produce love. Guarding the Flock Today • Stay anchored in Scripture (Acts 17:11). • Test every spirit and teaching (1 John 4:1). • Value qualified, accountable leadership (1 Titus 3:1-7). • Expect opposition: “After my departure, savage wolves will come in among you” (Acts 20:29-30). Anchor in the True Gospel The safest defense against counterfeit currency is intimate familiarity with the real thing. Hold fast to the sufficiency of Christ’s finished work (John 19:30), the authority of His Word (2 Titus 3:16-17), and the guidance of the Holy Spirit (John 16:13). False prophets and false apostles will keep trying new disguises, but the unchanging gospel exposes them every time. |
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