By Scarlett Stough
Many wild creatures have the ability to be camouflaged from predators or from the prey they hunt. We are warned the same is true of false apostles of Christ.
And what I do I will continue to do, in order to undermine the claim of those who would like to claim that in their boasted mission they work on the same terms as we do. For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.
2 Corinthians 11:12-15 ESV
Jesus warned his disciples:
Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit.
Matthew 7:15-18 ESV
What are these “fruits” we are to examine? How can we know if the “tree” is healthy or diseased?
Jesus went on in this same passage to describe one characteristic to use to recognize those who are false. Some may prophesy in his name, and even cast out demons and do mighty works, but if they teach and practice “lawlessness” they do not belong to his kingdom (Matthew 7:21-27).