Jesus warns to watch out for false prophets. He says they are like wolves in sheep’s clothing. The way to recognize them is by their fruit. He compares them to fruit-bearing trees. A good tree won’t and cannot produce bad fruit, and a bad tree won’t and cannot produce good fruit. In fact, every bad tree will be cut off and thrown into the fire. One last time Jesus says that by their fruit you will recognize them.
Words are easy to say…it’s following those words with action that is the most difficult. Many leaders may be able to speak a good word, but does their life back it up? Can you see the result of their teaching in their life? In other words, can you believe what they are saying because you know they are genuine? Or does it feel more like they’re a wolf in sheep’s clothing? Strong words for teachers to live by.
But this doesn’t just apply to those in leadership and teaching positions…it goes for everyone. Tomorrow we will see that Jesus is about to open up this teaching to all disciples. But it’s worth noting that you should be able to believe the words of those who teach and lead because of their actions both in public and behind the scenes.
A Journey With Jesus 