Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves. — MATTHEW 7:15
A true shepherd will be like Christ. He will be temperate and free from the love of money (1 Tim. 3:2–3). He will not teach of his own authority but will be faithful to the word of God.
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The people of God in every age must be on guard against imposters. Jesus warns that imposters disguise themselves in order to be heard, to gain trust, to find entrance into the sheepfold. They look like the shepherd but they are more like the wolf. Sheep’s clothing refers to the woolen outer garment that would identify a shepherd. The frightening picture that Jesus paints is of a wolf who puts on this clothing.
False teachers may appear to be genuine, but they are not. They are not in the church to feed and protect the sheep, but to devour them. They come to satisfy their own selfish appetites. Their inward motives are in conflict with their outward appearances. For this reason, Jesus explains that we must judge not by mere appearances—for appearances can be deceiving—but with righteous judgment (John 7:24).
We must be alert for false teaching. Beware! The savage wolves may penetrate your church not only through its doors but also through the Internet, TV, and books. Look past appearances and judge the fruits. The appetite of a wolf cannot be hidden. Materialism and greed are common characteristics of wolves (2 Pet. 2:3). Also, their teaching will not accord with sound doctrine. Paul exhorts us to “examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good” (1 Thess. 5:21).
A true shepherd will be like Christ. He will be temperate and free from the love of money (1 Tim. 3:2–3). He will not teach of his own authority but will be faithful to the word of God.