Signs of False Prophets: Evaluating Spiritual Leaders by Their Fruits

The Bible contains several warnings about false prophets and false teachers. These warnings are intended to help believers discern between genuine and false teachings. Here are some specifics to consider:

False Doctrine: False prophets often promote teachings that deviate from the core doctrines of the Christian faith. They may distort or deny essential truths about God, Jesus Christ, salvation, or the authority of Scripture.

2 Peter 2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.

Deception: False prophets are skilled in deception. They may use charismatic personalities, eloquent speech, and persuasive tactics to lead people astray. Jesus warned of false prophets who would come in sheep's clothing but inwardly be ravenous wolves.

Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

Fruit Inspection: Jesus taught that you can recognize false prophets by their fruits (Matthew 7:16-20). In other words, look at the outcomes of their teachings and actions. It may be a warning sign if their teachings lead to division, confusion, or harmful behavior.  (See below for more about fruit)

Matthew 7:16 - 7:20 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

Denial of Christ's Humanity or Divinity: Some false teachers deny the humanity or divinity of Jesus Christ. They may promote heretical views about Jesus, such as denying His deity or claiming that He did not come in the flesh.

1 John 4:2 - 4:3 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.

Self-Centeredness: False prophets often have self-centered motives. They may seek personal gain, fame, or control over others rather than serving the genuine spiritual needs of their followers. 

Miracle Claims: False prophets may claim to perform miracles, signs, and wonders to validate their authority. However, the Bible warns that even false prophets can perform miraculous deeds.

Matthew 24:24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.

Twisting Scripture: False teachers may manipulate or misuse Scripture to support their own agendas. They take verses out of context or interpret them in ways that align with their teachings.

2 Peter 3:16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

Rejection of Accountability: False prophets often resist accountability and correction. They may isolate themselves from those who challenge their teachings or question their authority.

2 Timothy 4:3 - 4:4 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

Divisiveness: False teachers can cause divisions within the Christian community. They may lead followers away from established churches and create splinter groups or cults.

Romans 16:17 - 16:18 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.

Unrepentance: False prophets may persist in their false teachings and show no signs of genuine repentance or willingness to correct their errors.

Revelation 2:21 - 2:22 And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds.

Diligent and prayerful study of the Bible is paramount in discerning truth from falsehood. These practices provide a foundation for sound judgment and a deeper understanding of genuine spiritual guidance.      

Studying to discern good from bad fruit is vital, especially in today's society. The biblical principle of evaluating individuals or teachings by their fruits is central to making wise judgments. While Matthew 7:16-20 serves as a key reference, there are other Bible verses that underscore the importance of this concept. Here are additional scriptures that reinforce the critical nature of fruit inspection:

Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV): "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." This passage highlights the positive fruits that should be evident in the lives of believers who are led by the Holy Spirit.

Matthew 12:33 (NIV): "Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit." This verse emphasizes the connection between the nature of a person or teaching and the outcomes it produces.

Luke 6:43-44 (NIV): "No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes or grapes from briers." Similar to Matthew 7:16-20, this passage underscores the idea that the character or teachings of individuals can be discerned by the results they produce.

James 3:17-18 (NIV): "But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness." James describes the "good fruit" that is associated with heavenly wisdom and contrasts it with worldly wisdom.

1 John 4:1 (NIV): "Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world." While not explicitly about "fruit," this verse encourages believers to evaluate teachings and individuals to discern their origin and authenticity.

The Word of God warns us about false prophets and teachers as a beacon of wisdom in a world filled with both light and darkness. By heeding these warnings and remaining vigilant, we can navigate the path of faith with greater discernment and clarity. Let us not be ignorant when the Word provides us with the tools to identify and resist falsehood, enabling us to stand firmly in the truth. As we embrace these insights, we equip ourselves to protect our faith, cherish genuine teachings, and honor the sacred trust of discernment bestowed upon us by our Creator.

Amanda Allen

www.KingdomRevelations.com