BEWARE THE FALSE PROPHETS By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Matthew 7:15 “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”
________________________________________
Introduction
In every generation, the presence of false prophets has been a challenge to the faithful. These individuals, driven by lust, greed, and self-interest, turn from the truth and lead others astray with cunningly devised tales and lies. Their actions are not new; history reveals a pattern of rebellion and deceit among those who have forsaken their first love, the Living God. This message warns of the dangers posed by these impostors and calls for vigilance and repentance to stay aligned with God’s truth.
________________________________________
The Characteristics of False Prophets
They Bring Lies to Their Own Bosoms
Jeremiah 14:14 “Then the Lord said unto me, The prophets prophesy lies in my name: I sent them not, neither have I commanded them, neither spake unto them: they prophesy unto you a false vision and divination, and a thing of nought, and the deceit of their heart.”
False prophets embrace deceit and live by their lusts without a conscience. They indulge in hypocrisy, forsaking the truth and their divine calling. Such behavior reveals their alignment with the gods of the heathen rather than the true and living God.
________________________________________
They Lead Others into Delusion
Isaiah 9:16 “For the leaders of this people cause them to err; and they that are led of them are destroyed.”
Instead of calling for repentance, these false prophets promote sweet lies that feed human pride and rebellion. Their followers, seduced by delusions, despise the truth and reject correction, choosing the intoxication of falsehood over the soberness of truth.
The Historical Context of False Prophets
________________________________________
Warnings in the Days of Old
Ezekiel 13:10 “Because, even because they have seduced my people, saying, Peace; and there was no peace; and one built up a wall, and, lo, others daubed it with untempered mortar.”
Throughout history, God sent true prophets to warn His people to repent and turn from wickedness. However, false prophets arose, offering comforting lies instead of truth. Despite God’s clear demonstrations of wrath against rebellion, many chose deception over repentance.
________________________________________
The Repetition of History
Ecclesiastes 1:9 “The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.”
The same patterns repeat today. False prophets continue to rise, preaching delusions and exploiting their followers. Yet, God remains faithful, calling for repentance through His true messengers and revealing His displeasure through signs and judgments.
The Consequences of Following False Prophets
________________________________________
God’s Wrath Upon the Proud and Deceptive
Proverbs 16:18 “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.”
God’s wrath is inevitable for those who persist in pride and falsehood. The false prophets, along with their followers, will face destruction, their pretensions exposed, and their delusions shattered.
________________________________________
The Fate of the Deceived
2 Thessalonians 2:11-12 “And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”
Those who cling to falsehood reject God’s truth and set themselves up for judgment. Their intoxication with lies leads to spiritual blindness, ensuring their ultimate ruin.
A Call to True Worship and Repentance
________________________________________
Turn from Falsehood to Truth
John 8:32 “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”
The faithful are called to reject the sweet-tasting poison of falsehood and embrace the sobering truth of God’s word. Repentance is the only path to escape the judgment reserved for the proud and deceitful.
________________________________________
Stand Firm in God’s Guidance
Psalm 119:105 “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
In times of great deception, believers must remain anchored in God’s word and seek His direction. By walking uprightly, they will find safety and purpose, even amidst the chaos of judgment.
________________________________________
Summary
False prophets have always sought to lead God’s people astray, feeding their delusions and turning them away from truth. Yet, God’s faithful warnings through true prophets and His righteous judgments reveal His unwavering commitment to justice. The call to repentance remains urgent, as God’s wrath will not tarry forever.
________________________________________
Conclusion
God’s truth endures, even as falsehoods rise to challenge it. The faithful are called to discernment, rejecting the intoxication of lies and clinging to the eternal truth of God’s word. By walking in obedience, they align themselves with the Living God and secure His mercy.
________________________________________
Call to Action
Examine your heart and your ways. Reject the enticing lies of false prophets and seek the truth of God’s word. Repent, turn from sin, and walk in the light of His guidance.
________________________________________
Final Word of Encouragement
Though the times are perilous, those who remain steadfast in God’s truth will find refuge in Him. Trust in His promises, walk in His ways, and rejoice in His mercy, for He is faithful to His own.
