How can church leaders ensure they are not leading others astray, per Matthew 7:15? Setting the Warning: Matthew 7:15 “Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.” Why Jesus’ Warning Matters Today • False teaching is not merely possible; it is expected. • Wolves disguise themselves, so discernment must be intentional, not casual. • The safety of Christ’s flock depends on vigilant, Scripture-anchored leadership. Anchoring in Sound Doctrine • Teach “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27-28). • Preach the Word “in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). • Compare every new idea with the written text (Acts 17:11). • Refuse to “go beyond what is written” (1 Corinthians 4:6). Guarding Personal Integrity • Meet the character qualifications of 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. • Lead “not for shameful gain, but eagerly” (1 Peter 5:2-3). • Keep short accounts with God: confess sin quickly (1 John 1:9). • Maintain private disciplines—prayer, study, worship—so public ministry flows from genuine devotion (Matthew 6:6). Cultivating Accountability • Invite elders and mature believers to “watch over your souls” (Hebrews 13:17). • Submit your teaching for peer review; “iron sharpens iron” (Proverbs 27:17). • Welcome correction; “better an open rebuke than hidden love” (Proverbs 27:5). Testing Every Spirit • “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits” (1 John 4:1). • Evaluate claims about God by the clear words of Scripture (Psalm 119:105). • Remember: truth never contradicts itself; Scripture interprets Scripture. Bearing Visible, Godly Fruit • “You will recognize them by their fruit” (Matthew 7:16). • Evidence of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, etc. (Galatians 5:22-23)—confirms authentic ministry. • Ongoing repentance and humility show a heart yielded to Christ (James 4:6-10). Protecting the Flock • Feed, don’t exploit, the sheep (Ezekiel 34:2-4). • Equip believers to discern truth for themselves (Ephesians 4:11-14). • Confront error swiftly to prevent gangrene spreading (2 Timothy 2:17-18). • Model servant leadership after the Chief Shepherd (John 13:14-15). Staying Close to the Shepherd • “Abide in Me, and I in you” (John 15:4). • Without Christ, leaders “can do nothing” of eternal value (John 15:5). • Daily dependence on Him keeps hearts soft and motives pure. Summary Checklist for Leaders □ Know and teach the Bible faithfully. □ Live a life that matches the message. □ Welcome accountability and correction. □ Test every new teaching by Scripture. □ Watch for spiritual fruit—yours and the congregation’s. □ Keep eyes fixed on Jesus, the Shepherd who never misleads His sheep. |
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