FEB 24

Matthew 7:17-18
Memorise Matthew 7:23
“…I never knew you: depart from me…”

Christ our Lord warns of false prophets and how to identify them, by the type of fruit they produce. It is not possible for a good tree to bear evil fruit, nor a corrupt tree bear good fruit. Consequently, an examination of the fruit will tell us whether a tree is good or evil, because it will not be obvious whether a teacher is genuine or a dangerous predator in harmless sheep’s clothing. False prophets will be people in leadership, theologians, spiritually learned, full of good works, and articulate – having all the appearance of godliness. From the outside, there will be no difference between them and genuine believers. Subtly, they will beguile, confuse and deceive those who are unaware.

The number 98.7% sounds pretty good – it is close enough to 100%, perfection. If you received 98.7% on an exam, you would think that was an excellent mark. How many people can attain 100%, 100% of the time anyway? Whilst we cannot see into their hearts, we can consider the ‘fruits’ of those who claim the Bible is 98.7% perfect. Does this strengthen people’s faith in the Word of God? Does it draw unbelievers to Christianity? Whose word is elevated, God’s or man who puts this judgement and limitation on God’s Word? We believe in a God who did not preserve His Word completely and perfectly? Can this possibly be good fruit? Certainly not.

A strong conviction in the 100% purity and perfection of the Word of God will only strengthen our faith in God, and help us to have absolute confidence in the truth of God’s Word. Allowing the possibility of anything less than that will cause uncertainty, doubt and ultimately unbelief to creep in. It will affect our faith, and cause us to question the Word of God, rather than just accepting it by faith.

There will be wolves who will come into your life and church with charisma, clever arguments and sweet words seeking to undermine and destroy Christians and the work of God. Examine with spiritual knowledge from the Word of God not the outward tree but with much prayer, its fruit.

Thought: If the Bible is 98.7% perfect, does that mean God is only 98.7% God?
Prayer: May I love the Bible and defend it with knowledge and courage.