Connect Ezekiel 13:14 with Jesus' teachings on false prophets in Matthew 7:15. Connecting the Passages “I will tear down the wall you plastered with whitewash and level it to the ground, so that its foundation is exposed. When it falls, you will be destroyed in its midst; then you will know that I am the LORD.” “Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.” One Warning, Two Pictures • Whitewashed wall → looks solid but hides cracks. • Sheep’s clothing → looks gentle but hides a predator. • Common theme: deceptive appearance that collapses under God’s scrutiny. Why God Acts • Protects His people from being led astray (Jeremiah 23:29). • Exposes the faulty foundation of lies (1 Corinthians 3:13). • Vindicates His holiness and truth (Isaiah 45:23). How to Identify the Deceiver Jesus’ test (Matthew 7:16-20) • “By their fruit you will recognize them.” – Doctrine that contradicts Scripture (Deuteronomy 18:20-22). – Lifestyle that denies godliness (Titus 1:16). – Motives of exploitation (2 Peter 2:1-3). Ezekiel’s imagery applied • Scrape off the “whitewash”: compare every claim with the written Word (Acts 17:11). • Check the foundation: is Christ Himself exalted as the cornerstone? (Ephesians 2:20). Certain Outcome for False Prophets • Wall falls → total collapse (Ezekiel 13:15). • Wolves judged → cast out (Matthew 7:22-23). • Parallel verdict: God destroys both the message and the messenger who rejects His truth. Living on the True Foundation • Build on Christ’s words (Matthew 7:24-25). • Cling to Scripture’s full authority (Psalm 19:7-11). • Remain vigilant; deception often appears attractive (2 Corinthians 11:13-15). • Encourage one another in sound doctrine (Hebrews 3:13; 2 Timothy 4:2). The Lord who exposes the whitewashed wall and unmasks the hidden wolf invites us to stand firm on His unshakeable truth. |
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