False Prophets and Teachers

False Prophets and Teachers

Scripture often warns against false prophets and false teachers for the simple reason that God’s own people can be deceived (Ezekiel 34:1 – 7; Matthew 7:15 – 16; 24:4, 11).

Therefore, the Bible exhorts believers to test those who claim to be prophets (1 John 4:1 – 3).

How can believers recognize a false prophet? Here are some considerations:

False prophets make predictions that are not fulfilled (Deuteronomy 18:21 – 22).

False prophets sometimes entice people to follow false gods or idols (Exodus 20:3 – 4; Deuteronomy 13:1 – 3).

False prophets often deny the deity of Jesus Christ (Colossians 2:8 – 9).

False prophets sometimes denied the humanity of Jesus Christ (1 John 4:1 – 2).

False prophets sometimes advocate legalism, such as abstaining from certain foods for spiritual reasons (1 Timothy 4:3 – 4).

False prophets often encourage asceticism (Colossians 2:16 – 23).

False prophets sometimes teach that marriage is bad (1 Timothy 4:3).

False prophets often promote various forms of immorality (Jude 4 – 7).

If a so-called prophet says anything that clearly contradicts any part of God’s Word, his teachings should be rejected. The Word of God is our barometer of truth – a litmus test that exposes error.

We ought to follow the example of the Bereans by comparing all truth claims with Scripture (Acts 17:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:21.)