How can we discern truth from falsehood according to Ezekiel 13:6? Setting the Scene Ezekiel is confronting prophets who claimed a word from God but actually spoke out of their own imagination. Ezekiel 13:6 exposes their deception and offers timeless insight for discerning truth today. Key Verse “Visions are false and divinations are a lie. They claim, ‘This is the declaration of the LORD,’ when the LORD has not sent them; yet they expect their words to be fulfilled.” – Ezekiel 13:6 Principles for Discerning Truth from Falsehood • Verify the Source – True revelation originates with the Lord; counterfeits come from human imagination (Jeremiah 23:16). – Ask: Does the claimed message align with the plain teaching of Scripture already revealed? God never contradicts Himself (Numbers 23:19). • Examine the Content – False prophets in Ezekiel’s day promised peace when judgment was imminent (Ezekiel 13:10). – Truth will often challenge sin and call for repentance, not merely soothe ears (2 Timothy 4:3-4). • Look for Fulfillment – Pretenders “expect their words to be fulfilled” (v. 6) but produce no real outcome. – Moses set the test: if a prediction fails, the speaker is not from God (Deuteronomy 18:21-22). • Assess the Fruit – Jesus taught, “You will know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16). – Authentic messages bear righteous fruit—obedience, holiness, and love (James 3:17-18). Warning Signs Mirroring Ezekiel 13 1. Claiming divine authority without divine commissioning (“The LORD has not sent them,” v. 6). 2. Relying on vague visions and impressions rather than clear Scripture. 3. Seeking personal gain or popularity (v. 19). 4. Offering comfort without confronting sin (v. 10). Positive Steps to Stay Anchored in Truth • Stay immersed in Scripture daily; let God’s Word be the plumb line (Psalm 119:105). • Test every claim by the whole counsel of God (Acts 17:11). • Submit to God-appointed, biblically faithful leaders (Hebrews 13:7). • Cultivate discernment through the Spirit’s guidance (John 16:13). Takeaway Ezekiel 13:6 reminds us that anything purporting to be God’s Word must be weighed against Scripture, verified in its fulfillment, and evidenced by righteous fruit. Discernment thrives when we stand firmly on the literal, unfailing Word of God. |
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