Dear Explorer,
Read Matthew 7:15-20
The focus for this passage is found in the first 5 words. What is it?
What does it mean that they will come in sheep's clothing?
They will come disguised. They will try to blend into the crowd. They will try to look like followers of Jesus on the outside.
Why does Jesus consider them to be like wolves?
First, I think He used sheep and wolves because it's something the people who were in his audience would understand. Satan's goal is to steal, kill and destroy you. Doesn't that sound a lot like wolves among sheep?
Now Jesus says that you will recognize false prophets by their fruit, or the results in their lives.
Jesus warns that a diseased tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and destroyed. I believe Jesus is warning us to watch out for people who say one thing and do another and for people who preach but the results are not good ones.
Read Luke 6:43-45
Luke gives us some new information. Where does He say that good or bad results comes from?
Now, you know that Luke, a doctor, was not referring to the organ of the body that pumps blood. He was referring to our inner Core. A false prophet or a fake follower can sometimes preach a pretty good sermon, but when you get to know them, you'll hear words that reveal that their core is not controlled by the Holy Spirit, but is controlled by SELF. Luke says to listen carefully, and their words will reveal who is in control of their core.
Read Matthew 7:21-23
You need to be warned that not everyone who says they are a follower of Jesus, is. I know several young women who married men who “claimed” to be followers, but after they were married, proved that they were just pretenders. How can this be?
It's hard to tell the difference unless you examine deeply and I want to assure you, if you are going to marry someone – you should be looking very deeply!!!! The difference lies in whether you believe about Jesus or whether you have asked Jesus into your inner core.
We are all empty until we invite Jesus to take control and reside within us. Many people learn about Jesus and believe everything about Him – but don't want to give Him the controls of their life. Even Satan believes in Jesus. Many believe that Jesus died, was resurrected, is God's Son, etc. But have no intention of inviting Jesus into their control center.
In this passage, Jesus says some people preach sermons, do miracles (yes Satan can do supernatural things, too.) and call Him Lord – but what does Jesus say about them?
He says, “I never knew you”. I think that means that they never invited Him into their lives to be the new boss, so, they are still empty at the core. But they can look and act religious on the outside.
Make sure you know the difference in being “religious” and being in a “relationship” with Jesus.
Read Luke 6:46
What does the word “Lord” mean?
It means the same as “master” or “boss” or “the one who controls me and my actions.”
“Why do you call me Lord – if you don't obey what I say?” That's a really good question. Maybe you need to ask yourself that question. I do occasionally.
Making Jesus truly your Lord by not only inviting Him into your core, but by obeying Him and following His directions is a great recipe for success in this life and for eternity!
In His service, dale
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