In today’s Gospel reading Jesus warns and speaks to us of false prophets. He tell us of the imminent coming of false prophets. But how do we know who are false prophets? Jesus tells us these people appear to be righteous people, holy and good, “they come to you in sheep’s clothing but inside they are wild wolves.” They may be people around us, clergy, religious or lay. How can we distinguish who are true and who are false?
Jesus says not all who profess his name are true believers. He also says, “You will recognize them by their fruits.” They may appear good and righteous, but they will always sow discord instead of unity. Unity is the fruit of the Holy Spirit, discord is Satan’s instant trademark. They will be more concerned with their own advancement rather than the glory of God. They will worship creatures more than the Creator. Their doctrines will be more self–centered rather than God–centered.
In the first reading, we see King Josiah as a true prophet. He leads his people in fulfilling the covenant that their fathers and they made with God. Let us follow his example and may our prayer today be: “Teach us the way of your decrees, O Lord. Give us the wisdom to recognize the false prophets in our lives and the courage to refute them.”
