Connect Jeremiah 27:15 with New Testament teachings on false prophets. “For I have not sent them,” declares the LORD, “and they are prophesying falsely in My name; therefore I will banish you, and you will perish—you and the prophets who prophesy to you.” False Prophets in Jeremiah and the New Testament • God exposes pretenders: they speak in His name without His commission (Jeremiah 27:15; cf. Jeremiah 23:16). • Their words promise safety yet bring judgment (Jeremiah 6:14; 2 Peter 2:1). • The LORD warns that both the prophet and the people who follow him suffer together (Jeremiah 27:15; Matthew 15:14). New Testament Echoes • Matthew 7:15 – “Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.” • Matthew 24:11 – “Many false prophets will arise and lead many astray.” • 2 Peter 2:1 – “There will be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies… bringing swift destruction upon themselves.” • 1 John 4:1 – “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” Shared Marks of False Prophets • Speak without divine sending (Jeremiah 27:15; John 5:43). • Misuse God’s name for credibility (Jeremiah 23:25; Matthew 24:5). • Offer empty peace and prosperity (Jeremiah 14:13-14; 2 Timothy 4:3-4). • Live by self-interest and greed (Micah 3:11; 2 Peter 2:3). • Ultimately face God’s judgment along with their followers (Jeremiah 27:15; Matthew 15:13; Revelation 19:20). Biblical Tests for Discernment • Do their words align with established Scripture? (Deuteronomy 13:1-4; Acts 17:11). • Do their prophecies come true? (Deuteronomy 18:21-22). • Do they exalt Christ as Lord in truth and deed? (1 Corinthians 12:3; 1 John 4:2-3). • Do their lives bear the fruit of righteousness? (Matthew 7:16-20; James 3:13-18). • Do they lead listeners toward holiness rather than license? (Titus 1:15-16; Jude 4). Consequences of Ignoring the Warnings • Personal and communal ruin (Jeremiah 27:15; 2 Peter 2:2). • Hardened hearts resistant to true teaching (Jeremiah 6:10; 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12). • Loss of discernment, multiplying deception (Jeremiah 5:31; 2 Timothy 3:13). • Eternal judgment if unrepentant (Matthew 7:22-23; Revelation 21:8). Encouragement for Faithful Believers • God preserves a remnant who cling to His word (Jeremiah 42:19; Revelation 3:8). • Scripture equips believers to recognize and withstand error (2 Timothy 3:15-17). • The Holy Spirit guides into all truth (John 16:13; 1 John 2:20). • Holding fast to sound doctrine brings life and peace (Proverbs 4:20-22; 1 Timothy 4:16). |
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