May 23, 2017
In Matthew 7, verses 15-20, Jesus addresses the topic of false prophets. He describes them wolves in sheep’s clothing and warns that, even though they will disguise themselves, they will be recognizable because of their fruit. In other words, while their looks may be deceiving, their fruit won’t be. It will be painfully clear by their words and actions that they are not approved by God. They may appear to be on the same path, the narrow path, but their presence there is only to act as distractions and road blocks to those who are truly God’s children. This message is essential for us to hear, because we are surrounded by so many who claim to be Christ-followers, but whose lives lack any sign of fruitfulness. They appear to be fellow companions on the narrow path to the kingdom of God, but they are like diseased trees, incapable of producing life-giving fruit. Not everyone who claims to be a Christ-follower is one. Not everyone who sits in the pew on Sunday is a true worshiper of God. Jesus would have us live warily and wisely, knowing that the enemy is real and the threats against us are ever-present.