Matthew 7:15
Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves.
The scariest thing about being deceived is that you never realize its happening. Just this weekend a gas station attendant tried to add an extra item to our receipt on the way back from Kristie’s parents’ house. I would have never caught it if Kristie hadn’t been with me. I was deceived because I wasn’t paying attention to the amount he charged us. Kristie caught the difference in prices right away.
In effect, this is the same principle Jesus was teaching His followers. “Pay attention!” The world is full of wolves in sheep’s clothing. If you allow yourself to become awestruck by their appearances or persuasive talk, you could place the entire flock in harms way. You must be more aware of your surroundings. You must learn to think critically and to use discernment.
The key to this command is found in the following verses. “You will know them by their works…” How does your youth pastor’s lifestyle match his teaching? Does your pastor show the love and the compassion of Christ? What about your friends? Here’s the deal. Jesus is your standard for living. The Bible is your standard for instruction. Regardless of how wonderful spiritual leaders can make an argument, and despite the enthusiasm carried in their walk, if any teaching or example strays from the word of God, you must be able to recognize and dismiss it as sin dressed up in “sheep’s clothing.”
I challenge you to pay attention to your surroundings today. Pay attention to those who are teaching you, to your mentors, and to your parents. Pay attention to your teachers at school, your best friend, and the music on the radio. Do they pass the test of Scripture, or are they hiding something dangerous underneath?
Man that is so true. My boyfriend cheated on me w someone at my church & my Youth astor said those same words.