How can we discern false prophets as warned in Matthew 24:3? The Setting of Matthew 24:3 “As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately. ‘Tell us,’ they said, ‘when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming and of the end of the age?’” Jesus’ First Charge: Guard Your Heart from Deception “Jesus answered them, ‘See to it that no one deceives you.’” (Matthew 24:4) From the very first breath of His reply, the Lord spotlights deception as the disciples’ primary danger. False Prophets Defined • Individuals who claim divine authority yet distort or deny the true gospel • Counterfeits empowered by “great signs and wonders” to mislead, “if possible, even the elect” (Matthew 24:24) • Often cloaked in convincing charisma, popularity, and apparent success Five Biblical Tests for Exposing a False Prophet 1. The Doctrine Test • Compare every message with the full counsel of Scripture (Acts 17:11; Galatians 1:8–9). • A true messenger upholds Christ’s deity, incarnation, atoning death, and bodily resurrection (1 John 4:1–3). 2. The Fruit Test • “By their fruits you will recognize them” (Matthew 7:16–20). • Look for consistent obedience, humility, holiness, and love, not merely giftedness. 3. The Fidelity Test • Deuteronomy 13:1–5 warns that even accurate predictions are nullified if the prophet lures people away from God’s commands. 4. The Fulfillment Test • Deuteronomy 18:20–22—prophecies that fail to materialize mark the speaker as false. 5. The Influence Test • 2 Peter 2:1–3 notes that false teachers exploit with fabricated stories and pursue greed. • Evaluate where the teaching leads: toward Christ-exalting worship or toward self-centered gain. Red Flags to Watch For • Messages that minimize sin or remove the offense of the cross • Promises of blessing detached from repentance and submission to Christ • New “revelations” that supersede or contradict Scripture • Leaders who demand unaccountable authority or foster cult-like loyalty • A lifestyle marked by moral compromise, pride, or financial exploitation Practical Habits for Staying Grounded • Daily Scripture intake—absorb the genuine so the counterfeit stands out • Active participation in a biblically faithful local church (Hebrews 10:24–25) • Ongoing dependence on the Holy Spirit, who guides “into all truth” (John 16:13) • Honest accountability relationships that challenge and sharpen discernment • Persistent prayer for wisdom (James 1:5) and for shepherds to remain true Encouragement for Faithful Watchers Jesus foretold deception not to alarm but to equip. His sheep “know His voice” (John 10:4), and He promises, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). Stand firm in His Word, stay alert, and rest in the Shepherd who never fails. |
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