A Tree and It’s Fruit
Matthew 7:15-20
I. What is a false prophet
A. One who deceives - Matthew 24:24
B. One who comes in name of the Lord purporting truth, but glorifies self
- has a new word from the Lord
- promotes self
C. Destroys others
II. The danger
A. Appearances look good
“They are counterfeits of the real thing, dishonest practitioners
masquerading as the messengers of Christ. Nor do their tactics
surprise me when I consider how Satan himself masquerades as an
angel of light. It is only to be expected that his agents shall have gthe
appearance of ministers of righteousness....” 2 Corinthians 11:13-15
B. The appearance may look good.....but it’s the heart that matters.
III. Garbage in, Garbage out
A. Fruit comes forth from the well spring of the soul
B. From a heart of darkness will come tainted fruit
IV. Examine the fruit
A. Points of evaluation
1. Character
2. Motive
3. Ambition
4. Actions
5. Doctrine
B. The way it should be
1. John 15:8
2. Galatians 5:22-23
3. Colossians 1:10
4. 2 Tim 4:2
