Christ Commands

Scripture

Primary passage

Matthew 7:15–20

15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves. 16 By their fruits you will know them. Do you gather grapes from thorns or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree produces good fruit, but the corrupt tree produces evil fruit. 18 A good tree can’t produce evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree produce good fruit. 19 Every tree that doesn’t grow good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.

Primary passage · World English Bible

The command

Hear what Jesus commands.

Recognize deceptive teachers by the lasting fruit their lives and teaching produce.

In context

Hear the whole passage.

Near the close of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus warns that some who appear harmless and speak religiously conceal destructive aims.

What this reveals

What this reveals about God.

Jesus forms discerning disciples who test spiritual influence patiently, truthfully, and by its fruit rather than by appearance or charisma.

Practice this command

Take one concrete step.

Examine one influential voice you regularly receive. Compare its message and visible fruit with Jesus' teaching, and discuss your observations with a mature believer.

Discuss

Talk about it.

What fruit should help us distinguish a trustworthy teacher from one whose influence is spiritually destructive?

Pray

Pray this.

Jesus, give us clear eyes and humble hearts. Protect us from deception and grow good fruit in those who teach in your name.

Teach

Teach it simply.

Teach discernment without suspicion or rumor: Jesus directs attention to sustained fruit, and serious concerns should be handled with evidence, wisdom, and appropriate accountability.

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