How can we discern false prophets like those in Ezekiel 13:18 today? Setting the Scene in Ezekiel 13:18 “and say, ‘This is what the Lord GOD says: “Woe to the women who sew magic charms on all wrists and make veils for the heads of people of every stature in order to ensnare souls. Will you ensnare the souls of My people but preserve your own?”’ (Ezekiel 13:18) • False spiritual leaders in Ezekiel’s day used attractive outward symbols—charms and veils—to captivate people. • Their real aim was control: “to ensnare souls.” • They served themselves, not God, preserving their own comfort and influence. Recognizing Modern Counterfeits Today’s false prophets may not stitch literal charms, yet similar marks remain: • Self-promoting messages promising health, wealth, or secret knowledge. • Manipulative techniques (emotional hype, fear tactics, elitist “inside” revelations). • Teaching that downplays sin, repentance, and the centrality of Christ’s cross. • Lifestyle contradictions—lavish indulgence, moral compromise, or hidden scandals. Grounded Tests for Discernment 1. Alignment with Scripture • “To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn.” (Isaiah 8:20) • The Bible—not trends, experiences, or personality—remains the non-negotiable standard. 2. Faithfulness to the True God • “If… he says, ‘Let us follow other gods’… you must not listen.” (Deuteronomy 13:1-3) • Any teaching that shifts worship away from the Father, Son, and Spirit is a counterfeit. 3. Christ-Centered Confession • “Every spirit that confesses Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God.” (1 John 4:1-3) • Authentic voices exalt the incarnate, crucified, risen Lord—not merely moralism or mysticism. 4. Accuracy of Prophetic Claims • “When the thing does not come about… that is a message the LORD has not spoken.” (Deuteronomy 18:21-22) • God’s prophets do not deliver failed predictions. 5. Observable Fruit • “By their fruit you will recognize them.” (Matthew 7:15-20) • Look for humility, holiness, love, and service, not greed or exploitation (2 Peter 2:1-3). Practical Discernment Steps • Stay rooted in daily Bible reading; let God’s voice shape intuition. • Commit to a local, biblically faithful church where shepherds can help test teachings (Hebrews 13:17). • Compare every message—podcast, book, conference, social media—with clear passages of Scripture. • Note patterns: one failed prophecy or doctrinal error rarely stands alone. • Avoid fascination with the spectacular; treasure the ordinary means of grace—prayer, Word, fellowship, communion. • Guard the heart: refuse bitterness or pride while exposing error (Ephesians 4:15). Encouragement to Stand Firm False prophets rise, but the Lord still speaks through His unchanging Word. As we cling to truth, “the God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet” (Romans 16:20). Hold fast; souls are rescued when believers discern wisely and live boldly for Christ. |
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