Today’s Reading, Jeremiah 14-17
Focal Scripture: Jeremiah 14:14 “But the Lord said to me, “These prophets are prophesying a lie in my name. I did not send them, nor did I command them or speak to them. They are prophesying to you a false vision, worthless divination, the deceit of their own minds.”
Being led astray can be obvious most of the time. However, you can also be lead astray by people you trust, especially if they are in a position of power or authority. This can happen in the secular work environment and it even happens in churches. When you are lead astray in a church it is by a false prophet. It doesn’t matter if it is intentional or unintentional. These prophets claim to speak for the Lord but have their own motives.
In today’s reading we see that the Lord exposes these false prophets. He calls them liars, declares he did not send them or know them. He definitely did not speak to them or give them a message to declare to the people. Everything they are saying is false and deceit of their own minds. These false prophets will be judged and will be dealt with severely.
You might be saying “Allen, we don’t have false prophets today in our churches.” I am here to tell you that they are plentiful. Sometimes they are obvious and sometimes they are not. The obvious ones declare that you can get whatever you want by giving enough money. Or they might tell you if you don’t have enough faith that is why you are still sick. You might even hear them state that suffering is only because of some sin in your life. These false prophets are easy to spot, yet many people listen to their message.
The more difficult ones to spot are the ones who declare to speak on behalf of God and have disdain for his people. They are individuals who say publicly and from the pulpit what is needed to be heard and privately destroy others. These are men who are corrupt in their leadership and attitude. Men who view ministry as a burden and not a calling. Their false prophecy comes out amongst a small group of people and they create damage wherever they go in ministry. Just like false prophets of old they will have a strong following and even people who will defend them to the death.
Why do we need to discuss this in our culture? Because no matter what type of false prophet you encounter they cause damage. They hurt people for their own gain. They are never going to admit that their message is false. This is why it is important to investigate who is the leader of your church. Take time and check every detail. Talk to former staff members and then call every reference. Then ask references for references.
If we are going to stop false prophets that are obvious and secretive from gaining influence we must do our due diligence. Make no doubt though that God will deal with these false prophets in very harsh and real ways. Their message will be judged and their attitudes will be condemned.
False prophets may thrive for a season but one day they will be exposed. This is why you must be critical of who leads and preaches before you weekly. This is why not everyone is called to declare Gods word. Expose the false prophets both obvious and secretive.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading Jeremiah 18-22
