Sermon: Discerning the Fruit - Identifying the Wolves in Sheep's Clothing
The words of our Lord Jesus Christ, found in Matthew 7:15: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.”
These words, spoken by our Savior, are not mere suggestions; they are a stark warning. A warning that echoes through the ages, reminding us that deception is a constant threat to the body of Christ. We are not dealing with mere disagreements or differing opinions; we are confronting those who seek to “overthrow the faith of some,” as Paul warns Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:14-18. These are not merely misguided individuals; they are wolves, disguised in the very garments of the flock.
The Deceptive Nature of False Teachers
These wolves, as Jesus describes them, appear innocent and harmless. They may speak with eloquence, display outward piety, and even perform seemingly good deeds. But beneath the surface lies a heart driven by self-interest and a desire to lead others astray. As 2 Timothy 3:13 reminds us, “evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.” They deceive others, and tragically, they often deceive themselves.
How Do We Identify the Wolf?
Now, here is the crucial question: how do we discern these wolves among the sheep? We cannot peer into the hearts of men. As 1 Corinthians 2:11 states, “For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them?” And as 1 Kings 8:39 reminds us, “For you—you alone—know every human heart.” We cannot judge the inner motives of another.
Furthermore, sincerity alone is not the measure of truth. Saul, before his conversion, was undeniably sincere in his persecution of the church (Acts 26:9-11; 23:1). But his sincerity did not make his actions righteous. As Jesus himself says in Matthew 7:21-23, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” Many will claim their devotion, but their deeds will betray them.
The Test of Fruit
This brings us to the core of Jesus' instruction: “You will know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16-20). This is our primary tool for discernment. We must examine the fruit that people produce.
• Their Doctrine: 2 John 7-11 and 1 John 4:1-4 emphasize the importance of sound doctrine. Do their teachings align with the clear and consistent message of Scripture? Do they uphold the deity of Christ, the authority of the Bible, and the gospel of grace? Deceivers and antichrists are identified by their departure from these truths.
• Their Behavior: While we cannot judge their hearts, we can observe their actions. Do they exhibit the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23)? Or do they display the works of the flesh—selfish ambition, discord, envy, and greed?
• Their Impact: What is the effect of their ministry? Does it build up the body of Christ, or does it cause division and confusion? Did the church in Ephesus test those who claimed to be apostles, and they were found to be liars, as we read in Revelation 2:2.
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Covetousness and Greed
While not all false teachers are motivated by greed, it is a frequent and dangerous characteristic. 1 Timothy 6:3-5 warns against those who use godliness as a means to financial gain. But remember, the absence of greed does not guarantee true teaching. We must look to the whole fruit of their ministry.
Application
We must be vigilant. We must study the Scriptures, test every spirit, and observe the fruit of those who claim to speak in God’s name. Let us not be swayed by eloquent words or impressive displays, but let us hold fast to the truth of God’s Word.
Let us pray for discernment, that we may recognize the wolves in sheep’s clothing and protect the flock of God. May we be found faithful, bearing good fruit that glorifies our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
