By Their Fruits

“Beware of false prophets.” This is a simple command, yet it is one that is not received well in our present age. Indeed, Jesus tells us here to identify and avoid those who preach falsely, yet faithful pastors are often attacked by well-meaning parishioners who find Jesus’s words here to be insensitive. But this instruction is not optional.  Jesus does not say “if” false prophets come. He says when. Beware. Be on your guard. Pay attention. Jesus warns His disciples that the greatest danger to their souls will not be from outside the Church but from inside it. The wolves do not come howling in from the wilderness; they come dressed like shepherds. They look like Christians. They sound like preachers. They quote the Bible. They smile. They are winsome. They hold office. But inwardly, Jesus says, they are ravenous wolves. This is a frightening thought. Jesus is not just speaking to the Twelve; He is speaking to you and, indeed, all Christians.

Find out more in this sermon from St. John's Lutheran Church of Oakes, ND!