How does Ezekiel 13:21 warn against false prophets in today's church? Text of the Passage Ezekiel 13:21: “I will tear off your veils and deliver My people out of your hands, and they will no longer be prey in your hands. Then you will know that I am the LORD.” Historical Snapshot • In Babylon, Ezekiel confronts self-appointed prophetesses who sold “magic bands” (v.18) and “veils” as occult charms. • They promised safety while luring God’s people into spiritual captivity. • The Lord vows to strip away their deceptive coverings and free His flock. Key Themes in the Verse • Exposure – “tear off your veils”: God unmasks hidden error. • Deliverance – “deliver My people”: He rescues believers from manipulation. • Vindication – “you will know that I am the LORD”: False voices are silenced; God’s authority is confirmed. Warnings for Today’s Church • Slick spiritual merchandizing—selling “anointed” items or experiences that guarantee blessing. • Ear-tickling predictions of prosperity while ignoring repentance (Jeremiah 23:16-17). • Mystical practices that bypass Scripture yet claim divine endorsement. • Leaders who build personal followings instead of pointing to Christ (Acts 20:30). • Minimizing sin and judgment to keep crowds comfortable (2 Timothy 4:3-4). Recognizing False Prophets Now • Doctrine that departs from the clear text of Scripture (Galatians 1:8). • Revelations that contradict the completed canon (Revelation 22:18-19). • Character marked by greed, immorality, or control (2 Peter 2:1-3). • A track record of unfulfilled prophecies (Deuteronomy 18:21-22). • Pressure to accept teaching without Berean examination (Acts 17:11). Walking in Discernment • Test every spirit: “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, to see whether they are from God” (1 John 4:1). • Anchor in the whole counsel of God (Psalm 119:160). • Submit to trustworthy shepherds who uphold sound doctrine (Titus 1:9). • Cultivate personal Bible literacy so veils cannot deceive you. God’s Promise of Protection • The same Lord who tore off ancient veils still exposes modern deception. • Jesus, the Good Shepherd, safeguards His sheep: “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish; no one can snatch them out of My hand” (John 10:28). • When His people cling to truth, false prophets lose their power, and the church again “knows that He is the LORD.” |
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