Matthew 7:16

"“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves."

Key Reflection

"Beware of false prophets" warns us to be vigilant against those who may appear harmless and innocent, like sheep, yet secretly harbor malicious intentions, much like ravenous wolves. This teaches that authenticity must be discerned beyond appearance, emphasizing the importance of true spiritual insight in identifying genuine teachers.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 16. Ye shall know them by their fruits. He gives the proper test of their character. Men do not judge of a tree by its leaves, or bark, or flowers, but by the fruit which it bears. The flowers may be handsome and fragrant; the foliage thick and green; but these are merely ornamental. It is the fruit that is of chief service to man; and he forms his opinion of the nature and value of the tree by their fruit. So of pretensions to religion. The profession may be fair; but the conduct--the fruit in the eye of the world--is to determine the nature of the principles.

Related Verses

More from Matthew 7

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Go deeper with Bible.talk - your AI Bible study companion