Jesus said regarding false teachers and prophets, “You will know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16). He warned that their approach would be by stealth: “… who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.” They look harmless but are really on the hunt for prey.
The Lord’s message is that we are not to be dazzled by outer appearances (attractive, eloquent, educated, successful) rather we are to look past all that to the kind of fruit they’re producing.
First, there is the fruit of their teaching. Is it Biblical? Do you see it taught by Jesus? The Apostles? Is it anywhere in the New Testament (NT)? Have you earnestly checked it out by searching the Scriptures?
News Flash: To not know your bible in these dark days is as dangerous as walking down a snake infested path without a flashlight.
Second, there is the fruit of their lifestyle. Does their lifestyle glorify God? Is it in line with Christian teaching? Is it moral? Clean?
In a day when false prophets, teachers, and cults are literally on every corner—many in positions of high visibility and influence—only you can protect your own soul by picking the fruit they produce!