3 Tell Tale Signs of a Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing

Crosswalk.com Contributing Writer
Published Sep 10, 2024

False teachers abound today. They have huge followings on their YouTube channels, Instagram accounts, or church auditoriums on Sunday mornings. And if we are not on the alert, we just might mistake them for the real thing. Jesus warned His followers to watch out for false prophets or religious teachers who will attempt to infiltrate the church and lead believers astray through bad doctrine, greedy living, or a spirit contrary to God’s. In Matthew 7:15, Jesus firmly warned: “Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves” (NASB). What does it mean for a false prophet or teacher to be in “sheep’s clothing?” It means they will disguise themselves as true followers of Christ, by trying to blend in, but will lack the indwelling of the Holy Spirit that is evident in one’s character and discernment of the truth. If someone acts and, at times, sounds like a great teacher of the faith, they might not necessarily be one if you look and listen closer. Here are 6 tell-tale signs of what Jesus called “a wolf in sheep’s clothing”  

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Cindi McMenamin headshotCindi McMenamin is a national speaker, Bible teacher, and award-winning writer who helps women and couples strengthen their relationship with God and others. She is the author of 17 books, including When Women Walk Alone (more than 160,000 copies sold), When God Sees Your TearsWhen a Woman Overcomes Life’s Hurts, and When Couples Walk Together:31 Days to a Closer Connectionwhich she co-authored with her husband of 36 years. Her newest book, The New Loneliness: Nurturing Meaningful Connections When You Feel Isolated, is now available for pre-order on Amazon. For more on her speaking ministry, coaching services for writers, and books to strengthen your soul, marriage, and parenting, see her website: www.StrengthForTheSoul.com

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