Matthew 7:15-16

Jesus warns that false prophets look like sheep on the outside but are wolves on the inside. The way to discern them is by their fruit: their character, teaching, and actions.

God’s Word is “living and active; discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Scripture cuts through outer appearances and reveals what is true. We judge fruit accurately only when we use God’s Word as the standard. Human intuition alone isn’t enough.

Jesus warns us in Matthew 7 that not everything that looks spiritual is actually from God. Some will wear sheep’s clothing, but carry a wolf’s heart. Hebrews 4 reminds us why that warning matters! God’s Word is living, active, and sharper than a two-edged sword. It divides soul and spirit, joints and marrow, exposes motives, reveals truth, and shows the real fruit of a life.

As we open the Scriptures today, we’re not just learning how to discern others; we’re inviting God to discern us. We’re asking Him to reveal what’s genuine, to expose what’s false, and to shape us into people whose fruit matches our confession. Because in a world full of false appearances, God is after what’s real.