Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, sheep are often used as symbols of innocence, purity, and the faithful followers of God. However, the imagery of sheep is also employed to convey warnings about deception, particularly in the context of false prophets who disguise themselves as harmless and trustworthy. This dual symbolism is crucial for understanding the biblical perspective on discernment and vigilance among believers.Biblical References One of the most direct references to false prophets assuming the appearance of sheep is found in the Gospel of Matthew. Jesus warns His followers, "Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves" (Matthew 7:15). This passage highlights the deceptive nature of false prophets who present themselves as benign and gentle, akin to sheep, yet harbor malicious intentions. The metaphor of sheep's clothing suggests an outward appearance of righteousness and piety, which can easily mislead the unsuspecting. The contrast between the external appearance and the internal reality underscores the need for spiritual discernment. Believers are encouraged to look beyond superficial appearances and evaluate the true nature of those who claim to speak for God. Old Testament Context The Old Testament also provides insights into the theme of false prophets. In the book of Jeremiah, God condemns the prophets who lead His people astray with false visions and deceptive messages. "They dress the wound of My people with very little care, saying, ‘Peace, peace,’ when there is no peace" (Jeremiah 6:14). Although the imagery of sheep is not explicitly used here, the concept of false assurances and misleading appearances aligns with the New Testament warnings. New Testament Warnings The Apostle Paul echoes this concern in his letters, cautioning the early church about those who would distort the truth. In his farewell address to the Ephesian elders, Paul warns, "I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock" (Acts 20:29). Here, the imagery of wolves among the flock reinforces the idea of external threats disguised as part of the community. Discernment and Vigilance The biblical exhortation to discernment is further emphasized in the epistles. In 1 John 4:1, believers 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 call to test the spirits serves as a safeguard against deception, urging Christians to evaluate teachings and prophecies against the truth of Scripture. Conclusion The imagery of sheep and the warnings against false prophets serve as a powerful reminder of the need for vigilance in the Christian life. By understanding the biblical portrayal of false prophets as wolves in sheep's clothing, believers are better equipped to recognize and resist deceptive influences that threaten the integrity of their faith. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 7:15Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Scriptural Predictions of an Apostasy. Treatise i. On the Unity of the Church. And ii. Acts vii. 54 The Sibylline Oracles. The Resurrection of Christ; his Last Interview with his Disciples ... The Gospel of Matthew In the House of his Heavenly, and in the Home of his Earthly ... Of the Power of Making Laws. The Cruelty of the Pope and his ... The Historical Books. 1 the New Testament... Resources What is the meaning of the Parable of the Sheep and Goats? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the Parables of the Lost Sheep and Lost Coin? | GotQuestions.org Why did Jesus tell Peter to "feed my sheep" in John 21? | GotQuestions.org Sheep: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sheep Gate: An Ancient Gate of Jerusalem Sheep of the Defenselessness of Servants of God (Greek: Diakonoi) Sheep of the Wicked in Their Death Sheep of Those Under God's Judgment Sheep were Frequently: Cut off by Disease Sheep were Frequently: Destroyed by Wild Beasts Sheep were Frequently: Given As Presents Sheep were Frequently: Given As Tribute Sheep were Frequently: Taken in Great Numbers in War Sheep: (In Patience and Simplicity) of Patience, of Christ Sheep: (In Proneness to Wander) of Those Who Depart from God Sheep: (Lost) of the Unregenerate Sheep: (Separation from the Goats) the Separation of Saints Sheep: (When Found) Restored Sinners Sheep: Also: Jacob's Management of Sheep: Being Covered With a Fleece Sheep: Bleating of, Alluded To Sheep: Constituted a Great Part of Patriarchal Wealth Sheep: False Prophets Assume the Simple Appearance Sheep: Feasting at the Time of Shearing Sheep: Females of, Called Ewes Sheep: First Wool of, Given to the Priests Sheep: Firstlings of, Could not be Dedicated As a Free-Will offering Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Redeemed Sheep: Firstlings of, not to be Shorn Sheep: Flesh of, Extensively Used As Food Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Members of the Family Sheep: Flocks of Attended by Servants Sheep: Flocks of Conducted to the Richest Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Fed in the Valleys Sheep: Flocks of Fed on the Mountains Sheep: Flocks of Fled from Strangers Sheep: Flocks of Followed the Shepherd Sheep: Flocks of Frequently Covered the Pastures Sheep: Flocks of Guarded by Dogs Sheep: Flocks of Kept in Folds or Cotes Sheep: Flocks of Made to Rest at Noon Sheep: Flocks of Watered Every Day Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abel Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Abraham Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice by Noah Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice from the Earliest Age Sheep: Offered in Sacrifice Under the Law Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bashan Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Bozrah Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Kedar Sheep: Places Celebrated For: Nebaioth Sheep: Skins of, Made Into a Covering for the Tabernacle Sheep: Skins of, Worn As Clothing by the Poor Sheep: The First Fleece of, Belonged to the Priests and the Levites Sheep: The Land of Bashan Adapted to the Raising of Sheep: Time of Shearing, a Time of Rejoicing Sheep: Tithe of, Given to the Levites Sheep: Tribute (Taxes) Paid In Sheep: Under Man's Care from the Earliest Age Sheep: Washed and Shorn Every Year Sheep: Wool of, Made Into Clothing Related Terms |
    |