Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves.
These words are Jesus’ warning to believers to be watchful against false teachers who outwardly display humility and piety, yet in their hearts selfishness, ambition for glory, and a deceiving spirit are hidden. “Sheep’s clothing” symbolizes an outwardly peaceful and devout appearance, while the “wolf” points to an inwardly merciless and dangerous nature. Jesus teaches to discern them by their fruit, that is, by the result of their deeds and conduct, not by their words. False prophets do not act with open evil, but speak with the appearance of truth, deceiving inexperienced hearts. Therefore the Christian is called to test every teaching in the light of the Lord’s word, and an outwardly pious voice should not be enough for him as a basis for trust. This warning has eternal value, reminding us that faith must not be built on human authority, but on truth and holiness.