How does Ezekiel 13:8 warn against false prophecy in today's church? Ezekiel 13:8—God’s Unmistakable Verdict “Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: Because you have spoken falsehood and seen a lie, behold, I am against you, declares the Lord GOD.” False Prophets: Then and Now - In Ezekiel’s day, self-appointed spokesmen claimed new “words” to soothe exiled Israel; God called their messages “falsehood.” - Today the danger remains whenever anyone claims, “God told me,” yet their message contradicts Scripture or exalts self. - God’s stance has not softened: “I am against you” still applies to every pulpit, podcast, or platform that trades truth for applause. Why God Stands Against Counterfeits - They misrepresent His character (Jeremiah 23:16–17). - They endanger souls by offering a false sense of peace (1 Thessalonians 5:3). - They divert glory from Christ to human personalities (Acts 20:30). - They undermine the trustworthiness of divine revelation (Deuteronomy 18:20-22). Marks of False Prophecy in Today’s Church - New “revelations” superseding or contradicting Scripture (Galatians 1:8–9). - Promises of blessing without repentance (Jeremiah 6:14). - Vague predictions that cannot be tested, or failed predictions excused away (Deuteronomy 18:22). - Merchandising the faith—truth for sale (2 Peter 2:1-3). - Flattery that strokes egos rather than confronts sin (2 Timothy 4:3-4). Discernment Checklist for Believers - Examine every claim by the written Word (Acts 17:11). - Test the spirits—ask, “Does this exalt Jesus as Lord come in the flesh?” (1 John 4:1-3). - Watch the fruit of the messenger’s life (Matthew 7:15-20). - Seek the counsel of mature, Scripture-anchored believers (Proverbs 11:14). - Remain submitted to a local, biblically faithful church (Hebrews 13:17). Protective Steps for Leaders - Teach verse-by-verse exposition, grounding people in context. - Publicly correct error when it arises (Titus 1:9). - Model humility: “Thus says the Lord,” not “Thus says my brand.” - Encourage congregational Berean-type testing rather than blind loyalty. - Pray for boldness to confront attractive lies with loving truth (Ephesians 4:15). Encouragement for the Faithful - God’s Word stands firm; no new revelation will overturn it (Psalm 119:89). - Christ promised, “My sheep know My voice” (John 10:4); stay close to the Shepherd. - The Spirit guides into all truth, never into contradiction (John 16:13). - Hold fast; the God who opposed false prophets in Ezekiel’s day still defends His flock today. |
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