[CYM] 36.0 Beware of False Prophets

Yeshua repeatedly warned His followers to be alert and discerning, especially about those who would appear religious but lead others away from the truth. One of the clearest warnings comes in Matthew 7:15–20, part of the Sermon on the Mount:

Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.

Here, Yeshua warns that false prophets may appear gentle and spiritual, but their true nature is dangerous. They can deceive others by their outward appearance, words, or religious authority. The key to discerning them, Yeshua says, is by examining their fruit—their actions, character, and impact. He continues:

A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. (vv. 18–20)

This teaching ties directly to the idea that true righteousness must be inward, not just external.

In Matthew 24:11, 24, Yeshua adds that in the last days, many false prophets and false messiahs will appear and “deceive many”, even performing signs and wonders to lead people astray.

Mark 13:22 and Luke 21:8 echo this warning, especially in the context of the end times. In John 10:1–5, Yeshua contrasts Himself as the true Shepherd with others who are “thieves and robbers” who do not enter through the gate.

Across the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, Yeshua commands His followers to be spiritually discerning, testing leaders and teachings against the truth of God’s Word, and remaining rooted in Him.