“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves” (Mat 7:16).
Let’s take a closer look at some clues embedded in the animal metaphor our Lord employs to help us differentiate true ministers from fake ones. Firstly, we learn that each animal’s unique voice betrays its true identity. Thus, a wolf disguised as a sheep is betrayed by its distinctive howl, unlike a sheep’s bleat. So over-reliance on the visual without also attending to the audio can ruin a sincere believer’s destiny. As you walk closely with Jesus, you get so familiar with His voice, that when He speaks through someone else, you can tell it’s the voice of your Good Shepherd (John 10:4). Furthermore, each animal’s behaviour reveals its real identity, regardless of its mask. For instance, while wolves are predators, sheep are herbivores. Wolves thrive on killing and eating other animals. Their predatory nature will differ from their camouflage. We must therefore beware of those who live to use, exploit, control or harm others. Guard against them and against becoming like them!
Pastor Josh