Definition and Nature:
False dreams, within the biblical context, refer to dreams that are deceptive, misleading, or originate from sources other than God. These dreams can lead individuals away from the truth and are often associated with false prophets and divination practices condemned in Scripture.

Biblical References:
The Bible addresses the issue of false dreams primarily in the context of warnings against false prophets and diviners who claim to have received messages from God through dreams. In Jeremiah 23:32 , the Lord declares, "Indeed," declares the LORD, "I am against those who prophesy false dreams," adding that these individuals lead His people astray with their reckless lies. This passage highlights the danger of false dreams in misleading the faithful.

In Deuteronomy 13:1-3 , the Israelites are warned about prophets or dreamers of dreams who might perform signs or wonders to entice them to follow other gods. The text states, "If a prophet or dreamer of dreams arises among you and proclaims a sign or wonder to you, and if the sign or wonder he has spoken to you comes to pass, but he says, 'Let us follow other gods'... you must not listen to the words of that prophet or dreamer." This underscores the importance of discerning the source and intent of dreams.

Characteristics of False Dreams:
False dreams are characterized by their inconsistency with God's revealed Word and their potential to lead believers away from the truth. They often serve the interests of the dreamer or false prophet rather than glorifying God. In Zechariah 10:2 , it is noted, "The idols speak deceit, diviners see visions that lie; they tell dreams that are false, they comfort in vain." This passage illustrates the emptiness and deceit inherent in false dreams.

Discernment and Response:
The Bible encourages believers to exercise discernment when evaluating dreams and visions. In 1 John 4:1 , Christians are instructed, "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." This principle applies to dreams, urging believers to test them against the truth of Scripture and the character of God.

Consequences of Following False Dreams:
Following false dreams can lead to spiritual deception, idolatry, and a departure from God's commandments. The consequences are severe, as seen in the warnings throughout Scripture. In Jeremiah 29:8-9 , the exiles in Babylon are cautioned, "Do not let your prophets who are among you and your diviners deceive you, and do not listen to the dreams you elicit from them. For they are prophesying falsely to you in My name; I have not sent them, declares the LORD."

Conclusion:
While dreams can be a means through which God communicates, as seen in the lives of biblical figures like Joseph and Daniel, false dreams stand in stark contrast as tools of deception. Believers are called to remain vigilant, grounded in Scripture, and reliant on the Holy Spirit for discernment to avoid the pitfalls associated with false dreams.