How can we identify and avoid false shepherds in today's church? Setting the Scene Zechariah 11:8: “In one month I dismissed three shepherds. My soul grew impatient with them, and their souls also loathed Me.” Key Insight from Zechariah 11:8 • God Himself removes corrupt leaders (“shepherds”) who refuse to honor Him. • The double loathing—God toward them, they toward God—exposes the heart of every false shepherd: hostility to the Lord and indifference to His flock. Defining a False Shepherd • Cares for position, pay, or prestige more than for people (Ezekiel 34:2–3). • Teaches contrary to the apostles’ doctrine (Acts 2:42; 2 Peter 2:1). • Uses smooth words to gain followers for self, not Christ (Romans 16:18). • Shows no genuine fruit of the Spirit (Matthew 7:15–20). • Rejects correction and accountability (Jeremiah 5:30–31). How to Recognize Them in Today’s Church 1. Doctrine Test – Compare every teaching with the whole counsel of Scripture (Acts 17:11). – Watch for denial of Jesus’ full deity, His bodily resurrection, or salvation by grace alone (Galatians 1:8–9). 2. Character Test – Observe lifestyle: purity, humility, servant-heartedness (1 Timothy 3:2–7). – Note attitude toward money (1 Peter 5:2). 3. Fruit Test – Are people growing in holiness and love (John 15:8)? – Is the shepherd reproducing mature disciples or merely gathering fans (Ephesians 4:11–13)? 4. Motivation Test – Does the ministry exalt Christ or the leader (John 3:30)? – Are hard truths preached, or only what “itching ears” crave (2 Timothy 4:3–4)? 5. Accountability Test – Plural leadership and transparent finances (Philippians 1:1; 2 Corinthians 8:20–21). – Willingness to submit to Scripture and to godly elders (Hebrews 13:17). Why False Shepherds Thrive • Many prefer flattering words over repentance (Isaiah 30:10). • Spiritual laziness—believers neglect regular Bible intake (Hebrews 5:12–14). • Culture prizes charisma over character (1 Samuel 16:7). Steps to Avoid Their Influence • Saturate your mind with Scripture daily (Psalm 1:2; Acts 20:32). • Stay planted in a local church that upholds apostolic teaching (Titus 1:9). • Test every spirit—verify claims, prophecies, and experiences (1 John 4:1). • Pray for discernment and boldness to confront error (Philippians 1:9–10). • Support and encourage faithful shepherds (1 Thessalonians 5:12–13). Anchoring in the True Shepherd John 10:11: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” • Measure every leader against Christ’s sacrificial model. • When leaders imitate Christ, follow them (1 Corinthians 11:1). • When they depart, obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29). Living the Lesson • Zechariah’s warning stands: God will not tolerate shepherds who despise Him and devour His flock. • Guard your heart, guard the gospel, and gladly submit to the Good Shepherd who never fails His sheep. |
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