Pastor Jack King delivers a critical message from Matthew 7, urging believers to practice spiritual discernment by examining the "fruit" produced in the lives and teachings of others. He explains that Jesus' teaching on knowing them by their fruit came right after his warnings on judgment, hypocrisy, and the narrow gate to life.
-- A false prophet has ulterior motives, often seeking personal benefit, control, or influence.
-- Anytime a teaching is intended to control a person, the Scripture calls it witchcraft—the ability to manipulate and keep people "under your spell."
-- Jesus describes false prophets as those who are "dressed in lamb's clothing" but are inwardly "ravaging wolves" out to devour and sway people.
-- We are warned not to be deceived by a smooth voice; their persuasive delivery does not equate to truth or sound Christian doctrine.
-- The solution is to study the Scriptures and know the Word of God so well that you can "smell a false prophet a mile away."
-- Just as a "corrupt tree will bring forth corrupt fruit," a corrupt teacher will not produce good fruit in line with the Gospel.
-- Living a fruitful life (as discussed in 2 Peter 1) means removing the things that make you "barren" or unfruitful, such as the "cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches" (the spiritual "suckers").
-- A true Christian demonstrates the Gospel: they share their faith, lead others to Christ, are kind, and are committed to God's Word.
Scriptures for Further Study
-- Matthew 7:1-14
-- Matthew 7:16
-- Matthew 7:20
-- 2 Peter 1
This is episode 101.
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