Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Fall as the violation of the purpose of creation
Mat. 7:15-23
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” (21)
Why did Jesus talk about false prophets and false disciples immediately after talking about two gates (Wide and narrow) and choosing between two paths (one that leads to destruction and the other that leads to life), because He wants us to be aware of the danger of being led astray and to guard against it. The biggest sign that a person is a false prophet is by the fruit (deeds) or righteousness of his life. The primary sign that a person is a false disciple is that he does not do the will of the father. He may do a lot of good things, but obedience is what is required. We do have some tools to identify true prophets and true disciples.
1, Spend time in prayer and God’s word: We need to study god’s word. Pray that God might enlighten our minds to understand it. There are times and situations where we can do it on our own but the way that God has set it up is that we are meant to do this Christian life in community. He has given us teachers, pastors, and fellow Christians to help us in our journey.
2, Watch for fruitfulness: We cannot define or understand fruitfulness without knowing God deeply.  We have to keep in mind that mere Biblical knowledge and activity do not replace character and maturity. Most knowledgeable people have very little understanding. They haven’t allowed that knowledge to transform them to the image of God. Similarly our involvement in various activities can become a replacement for spending time with God. All of this does not lead us to maturity in Christ. True maturity can be seen in a person who fulfills God’s will and who demonstrates the ‘fruits of the Spirit.’ (Gal.5:22)
3, Beware of the miraculous: It is hard to believe Jesus will accomplish his mission and purpose for our world even through those who would seek to do it harm. People are transformed, healed and renewed even though certain false teachers do it for the wrong reasons. Why? Because this is about God and His Glory. God will work. But the warning is clear, “I will tell them plainly, I never knew you, away from me, you evildoers!” (23)
We are expected, through prayer and through God’s word to figure out the false prophet and false disciple. We have to keep in mind that we have to make some pretty close decisions for we are talking about our pursuit of the narrow path that leads to life and that makes it all the more important.
Prayer: O, Lord, my God, may Your Word become so much a part of me that obedience comes naturally and cheerfully from my heart. Change me and mold me into your image....Amen
Thought for the day: To avoid going wrong, follow God’s leading. To avoid being pulled into error, keep a firm grip on the truth.

Rev.Sam Mathew, Carrolton MTC Dallas

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