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Explanation for:
Matthew
7
:
15
Beware of false prophets, who come to you in the clothing of sheep, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
13
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{"arr":[{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"This setting can also be interpreted concerning those who make promises in appearance and speech, yet their actions tell a different story. Particularly, it should be considered in relation to heretics who, through self-control, purity, and fasting, seem to be adorned in a semblance of holiness, yet their hearts are tainted, resembling souls poisoned by malice, preying on the unsuspecting members of the community. Thus, through the outcomes of their actions, which undermine purity, they are akin to ferocious wolves."},{"author-name":"Athanasius the Great","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c889457b66f7fc274d1066_Athanasius%20the%20Great.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Therefore, dear brother, when you encounter an individual who appears respectable, focus less on whether he dons a sheepskin or carries titles such as presbyter, bishop, deacon, or ascetic. Instead, seek to discern his actions: is he pure, loving toward strangers, compassionate, full of love, dedicated to prayer, and patient? If he prioritizes his appetites above all, if he is consumed by greed, and if he is tainted by false piety, then turn away from him. He is not a shepherd of wisdom, but rather a ravenous wolf."},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"In this context, in addition to the dogs and swine, we encounter a more insidious type of accusation and treachery. While the former are apparent and visible, the latter are concealed. For this reason, the Saviour instructed that those overt threats be removed, while the hidden dangers require careful scrutiny, as they are not easily recognized at first glance. Hence, He urged, \\"Hearken,\\" instilling a sense of diligence in identifying them. Furthermore, to prevent discouragement among those who were informed of the necessity to traverse a narrow and difficult path—one that many find unpleasant—while also steering clear of dogs, swine, and other malevolent forces, such as wolves, the Saviour recalled events from the time of their ancestors, highlighting the false prophets. Such occurrences were not new. Therefore, He reassured them not to be troubled, as nothing extraordinary would transpire. The devil consistently intertwines deceit with the truth. In labeling certain individuals as false prophets, it seems that Christ was not referring to heretics alone, but rather to those who, while living immoral lives, feign righteousness—a group typically known as deceivers."},{"author-name":"Basil the Great","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c889927158e4af30595484_Basil%20the%20Great.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"We should not be swayed quickly or without careful examination by those who appear to embody truth. Instead, we must discern each individual based on the attributes outlined in the Scriptures. Take heed of the false prophets who approach you disguised as innocuous sheep, yet are, in reality, deceitful. Their true nature will be revealed by their fruits (Matthew 7:15, 16)."},{"author-name":"Maximus the Confessor","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8951a1dea23713695271e_Maximus%20the%20Confessor.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":7,"exegesis-text":"Let us be cautious not to entertain thoughts that diminish the seriousness of our sins or suggest that they have been entirely forgiven. The Lord, who is our protector, warned us: Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. As long as we remain troubled by sin, we have not truly received forgiveness, nor have we produced the genuine fruits of repentance. The essence of repentance is the tranquility of the soul, and this tranquility serves as atonement for sin. We do not yet possess complete serenity of spirit, since we are sometimes affected by our passions, and at other times not. Therefore, we have not yet attained perfect forgiveness. We were liberated from original sin through holy baptism, and we will be freed from the sins we have committed after baptism through true repentance."},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"Those who stray from the truth often exhibit cleverness and deceitfulness; hence the warning to \\"beware.\\" They communicate soothing words and present themselves as if they lead virtuous lives, yet beneath that facade lurks corruption. The guise of gentleness they wear is merely a mask, one that other hypocrites employ to mislead and manipulate."},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"After discussing the path, He warns us about the wrongdoers along that path, encouraging us to be vigilant and discerning. Earlier, He advised us regarding dogs and swine as dangers, but now He introduces a more perilous threat: wolves disguised in sheep's clothing. While dogs and swine are easily identifiable, these wolves remain hidden and undetectable. Some believe they represent extraordinary and wicked individuals who lead many astray. Known as false prophets, they predict and interpret future events, presenting themselves in the guise of innocent sheep in the pastures of Christ, yet they are predatory wolves that quietly and secretly lead simple souls to ruin. Chrysostom explains that these are Christians whose lives are marked by vice and malice, promoting unkindness and hypocrisy, thereby corrupting moral standards. By distinguishing them from the previously mentioned dogs and swine, Christ instructed that the latter should not be entrusted with sacred teachings, and we should avoid the former as if they were toxic beasts, lest we share in their downfall. To help his listeners identify such individuals, He provided a principle for discernment: By their fruits you shall know them (Matthew 7:16)."},{"author-name":"Theophan the Recluse","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8983a6e0f4c3aecaae3fc_Theophan%20the%20Recluse.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"\\"Beware of false prophets.\\" Since the inception of Christianity, this admonishment has been ever relevant. The Lord has not pinpointed specific false prophets to be cautious of, as their identification can be elusive. They metamorphose like trends, with each new era bringing forth fresh manifestations. They often present themselves in sheep’s attire, embodying an illusion of benevolence in their deeds and a semblance of truth in their words. In contemporary times, their garments are made of progress, civilization, enlightenment, freedom of thought, and personal convictions that reject faith. This serves as a deceptive façade. Thus, when you encounter this façade, do not be quick to lend an ear to the proclamations of those who wear it. Examine closely for the presence of a wolf beneath that sheep’s disguise. Understand that the Lord is the true initiator of perfect goodness, the one who softens hearts and morals, the true light-giver, liberator, and the one who fills the heart with an undeniable sense of truth, which instills an unshakeable conviction. Hence, if you detect any sign of contradiction to the Lord's teachings in the messages of these new prophets, recognize them as predatory wolves and turn away from them."},{"author-name":"Ignatij (Briantchaninow)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ce37597540c9caa5df5_Ignatij%20(Briantchaninow).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Be vigilant, says the Lord, regarding the false prophets who appear as harmless sheep but are actually fierce wolves beneath the surface: you will recognize them by their deeds. False prophets are always subtle in their approach; thus, the Lord emphasizes the need for careful attention and caution towards them. \\n\\nBeware of the false prophets, or misguided teachers and erroneous doctrines, who may appear to you as innocent as sheep, yet are inwardly ferocious wolves: by their outcomes, you shall recognize them. The Apostle speaks of spiritual fruits, which include joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, mercy, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22). A doctrine that pleases God will inevitably yield spiritual fruit, as outlined by the Apostle; however, if such fruit is absent, the doctrine is false, even if the person claiming to be a prophet possesses impressive titles associated with wisdom and understanding. This divine instruction calls for great contemplation, starting with the crucial words, \\"hear ye.\\" Truly, it demands our utmost focus and thoughtfulness to be implemented! False teachings are often conveyed in captivating and eloquent manners. Not everyone can discern falsehood by analyzing its concepts; nevertheless, its fruit reveals its true nature, allowing for immediate identification and judgment. The Holy Great Barsonophius once advised a monk: \\"Understand, my brother, that any thought not underpinned by the silence of humility does not originate from God, but clearly comes from the adversary. Our Lord approaches us in peace, while the enemy brings chaos and defiance. Although demons may masquerade in sheep's clothing, their true nature as ravenous wolves is uncovered through the turmoil they cause, as it is written, 'from their fruit you shall know them.' May the Lord guide us all to remain steadfast and not be swayed by their deceptive truths."},{"author-name":"Abbot Panteleimon about the Trinity","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The path to the Kingdom of Heaven can be arduous and sorrowful, particularly because some individuals masquerade as advocates of truth and goodness while they actually propagate deceit and various forms of evil. The Saviour cautions us against these deceitful individuals: \\"Beware,\\" He instructs, \\"of false prophets; beware of them!\\" Reflecting on the Saviour’s approach, St. John Chrysostom notes, \\"He did not command punishment but simply warned us to be vigilant so that we do not suffer harm from them.\\" The blatant heretics, whom He referred to as dogs, and the woeful sinners, whom He labeled swine, are less perilous as they are easily identifiable. However, the challenge lies in discerning the false prophets, who disguise themselves as genuine Orthodox Christians, coming \\"in sheep's clothing,\\" cloaked in an illusion of humility and simplicity, and even outward acts of piety such as charitable giving and prayer. Yet, their deeds are performed in a Pharisaic manner as they inwardly embody ravenous wolves. Who are these false prophets? A true prophet is a chosen servant of God, commissioned to convey His will to humanity and to foretell what is to come. Historically, prophets not only made predictions but also guided the people in righteous living, thus they were often regarded as divinely appointed heralds of faith and righteousness. Consequently, a false prophet is a charlatan who feigns being a God's messenger, a proponent of truth; he stands as a false teacher and deceiver. Many still exist today. But how can we differentiate these false teachers from the genuine ones? The Lord provides us with a means to discern them. Their pride taints them so thoroughly that even their ostensible virtues are rendered insignificant in God's eyes. A tree may display beautiful and fragrant blooms and lush, green leaves, yet what truly matters is the fruit it bears: good fruit signifies a healthy tree, while bad fruit signals a corrupt tree."},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"False Prophets. A prophet, in the specific sense, is one who predicts the future not through innate perception based on an understanding of natural laws or situational awareness, but through direct revelation from God. Thus, a prophet offers insights into matters and occurrences that are beyond ordinary human foresight. Consequently, a prophet serves as a unique messenger of God, entrusted with knowledge of what is to come. Typically, this extraordinary messenger does not limit himself to a single divine revelation, as he is also called to instruct the people broadly, guiding them through various circumstances. Therefore, in a wider context, a prophet can be understood as a teacher appointed by God. A false prophet, then, is an individual who has not been commissioned by God to predict the future or teach the people; instead, he deceitfully poses as a divinely sent prophet. Such false prophets were particularly prevalent during the time of the Babylonian exile (Jeremiah 23:9 ff.; Ezekiel 13:1 ff.).\\n\\nThis may refer to false teachers in general, who were abundant among the Jews, especially those within the Christian community who might emerge within the very heart of the Church, against whom the Lord cautions His followers (cf. Theophylact). Moreover, it encompasses \\"those who lead a corrupt life while cloaking themselves in a façade of righteousness, whom many refer to as flatterers\\" (Chrysostom). In sheep's clothing. The sheep symbolizes innocence and humility. The phrase “in sheep’s clothing” indicates a deceptive appearance, one that embodies simplicity and gentleness, making it easier to mislead the unsuspecting. Wolves, being ferocious, contrast sharply with this imagery. In relation to false teachers and flatterers, this expression applies to those who ruthlessly entice individuals into their misguided beliefs, ultimately harming their souls and spiritually murdering them through their erroneous teachings. The metaphor draws from the behavior of a wolf that dons a sheep's skin to infiltrate a flock and, unnoticed by the naïve and trusting sheep, seizes and attacks some, scattering the remainder."},{"author-name":"Gladkow B.I.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88bf0ceef8c96e09a6521_Gladkow%20B.I..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Stay true to the narrow way that guides you to the confined entry of everlasting life. Do not heed those who seek to entice you. Though these deceivers may present themselves with pious and gentle words, their actions often contradict their statements. Therefore, do not be swayed by their insincere rhetoric; instead, observe their actions. Just as you identify a tree by its fruit, discern individuals by their works. A tree that appears pleasing but produces bad fruit should not be trusted; its exterior may be appealing, but lacking good fruit, it is cut down and cast into the fire, serving merely as kindling. The same principle applies to people: do not be misled by appearances or their declarations if their actions do not reflect their claims. Such individuals cannot serve as true teachers or leaders for those yearning for the truth. They may refer to themselves as messengers of God's word, proclaimers of His will, or prophets; however, they are false prophets, akin to hungry wolves disguised in sheep's clothing. Exercise caution around them! Throughout history, there have been false teachers before the coming of Christ and after His arrival, and many still exist today. While not every one can be characterized as ravenous wolves—some may lead lives of strict morality without selfish or ambitious motives—if they mistakenly lead others astray with their teachings, they too will be likened to wolves, diverting souls from the path to the Kingdom of Heaven and effectively robbing them of their rightful place. Be vigilant! Remember, it is not everyone who calls out to Me, “Lord! Lord!” who will enter the Kingdom of Heaven, but only those who do the will of My Father who is in Heaven."},{"author-name":"Philaret (Amphiteatrov)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896e9b7a2ebaf99e4620a_Philaret%20(Amphiteatrov).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The Saviour provides us with a vital warning to ensure we remain steadfast on the singular path leading to eternal life. O souls, redeemed through the precious blood of Christ from sin's chains, having been promised eternal life in the baptismal waters of the Holy Spirit, you are called to live in the light of God’s commandments with all virtue and holiness! Be vigilant against those false teachers who approach you through their own words or writings, lacking a divine mandate from God or His holy Church. They come disguised as gentle sheep, feigning humility and affection for you while subtly catering to your passions. Their intention is to widen the narrow gate and pathway to the Kingdom of Heaven, accommodating your transgressions and sins. They proclaim a misguided notion of God’s mercy devoid of His righteousness, concealing His unchanging judgment upon the lawless and their fate in the fiery Gehenna, thereby extinguishing the saving fear of God from your hearts—this fear being the foundation of true wisdom (Proverbs 1:7). They lull your conscience into a state of complacent carelessness, delaying repentance until advanced age or the very moment of death. Beneath this woolly disguise, these predatory wolves seek to gain your trust, constructing for themselves a sanctuary of vanity, fleeting happiness, and human praise upon the foundation of your deception. Be cautious of these voracious wolves, who, driven by selfish ambition, aim to liberate you from your Gospel duties, leading you into degrading and painful enslavement to your desires and sins. Exercise discernment in your everyday interactions and conversations, guarding against those who incite lust under the pretense of pleasing you with enticing words, as they may weaken your faith's resilience and the severity of your piety. Scripture warns us, ‘The customs of good conversations are corrupted by evil ones’ (1 Corinthians 15:33). To help us differentiate between true preachers and false prophets, the Saviour provides a clear sign, enabling all to identify them."}]}
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