How does Acts 13:6 connect with warnings against false prophets in Matthew 7:15? Key Verses Acts 13:6 — “They traveled through the whole island as far as Paphos, where they encountered a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus.” Matthew 7:15 — “Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.” Shared Warning • Both passages expose a real and present danger: people who claim spiritual authority yet distort God’s truth. • Jesus issues the general caution; Luke records a vivid case study that shows the caution in action. • Together they confirm that false prophets are not theoretical—they surface in history, in churches, in missions, and must be confronted. How Acts 13:6 Illustrates Jesus’ Warning • “Sheep’s clothing”: Bar-Jesus is a Jew, using the revered title “son of Jesus/Joshua,” presenting himself as spiritually helpful to the proconsul. • “Ravenous wolf”: Behind the façade he practices sorcery, opposing the gospel (v. 8) and trying to keep Sergius Paulus from faith. • The encounter validates Christ’s words: appearances deceive; spiritual discernment is essential. Traits Seen in Bar-Jesus—and in False Prophets Today • Spiritual camouflage: religious language, titles, or credentials (cf. 2 Corinthians 11:13–15). • Mixture of truth and occult or worldly wisdom (Deuteronomy 13:1-3). • Opposition to the plain gospel message (Galatians 1:6-9). • Personal gain or influence: Bar-Jesus enjoys status in the proconsul’s court (2 Peter 2:3). • Resistance when confronted: he “opposed” Paul and Barnabas (Acts 13:8). Biblical Pattern of Dealing with False Prophets • Expose error clearly (Acts 13:9-10; Ephesians 5:11). • Proclaim sound doctrine immediately (Acts 13:12; Titus 1:9). • Trust the Spirit’s power over deception (Acts 13:9; 1 John 4:4). • Expect God to protect His flock and advance the gospel despite opposition (Acts 13:11-12). Take-Home Encouragement • Scripture’s warnings are practical safeguards, not pessimistic fears. • Discernment flows from knowing the Word; the better we know the real, the easier we spot the counterfeit (Psalm 119:105; Hebrews 5:14). • The church today, like Paul and Barnabas then, can face error confidently, trusting the risen Christ to prevail. |
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