Red Alert: False Prophets Ahead

“Watch out for false prophets…” 
Matthew 7:15 (NIV) 

Could the very person claiming to guide you be leading you astray? 

 One of the greatest dangers you face as a follower of Jesus is not attacks from outside the church but from within. Jesus says you must “watch out” for false prophets.  

The word Jesus uses for “watch out” literally means “beware.” When Jesus tells you to “beware,” it’s a code red. It’s the highest security alert He can give. In other words, pay attention because danger lurks.  

Before you can watch out for a false prophet, you need to know what to look for. The word used in the original Greek language for “false prophets” is one word–pseudoprophetes. “Pseudo” is the Greek word for “lie.” False teachers fail to teach the whole truth.  

But you can be alert and tuned in to avoid this deception. How?  

The Apostle Paul tells you what to look for in 2 Corinthians 11:4, “For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the Spirit you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted...” (2 Corinthians 4:11:4, NIV) 

Firstly, listen for signs of a different Jesus than revealed in the Gospels.  
- Some focus only on acceptance without mentioning judgment.  
- Others promise prosperity but ignore suffering and obedience. 
- Some claim all roads lead to heaven and avoid topics like sin and holiness. 

You can live without fear of false teachers because God has equipped you with the real thing. The Truth Himself lives within you. When you stay close to Jesus and regularly read His Word, He gives you awareness and wisdom to discern any danger ahead.  

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your Truth and for giving me Your Spirit of Truth. I trust You to guide me and pray for the wisdom to discern when something does not align with Your Word. I thank You for it, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.