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“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.”
— Matthew 7:15 (ESV)
The Warning Is Real
Jesus didn’t mince words. He said there would be wolves in the flock—people who look like Christians, sound like Christians, but have no intention of serving Christ. These are not simply believers who are struggling or doubting. These are predators with a purpose: to disrupt, deceive, and divide.
We’re not called to paranoia, but we are called to discernment.
How to Identify a Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing
1. They Twist Scripture
A wolf knows how to quote the Bible, but often bends it to justify sin, manipulate others, or promote their own authority. Like Satan in the wilderness (Matthew 4:6), they use God’s Word for their agenda.
2. They Seek Power and Attention
Wolves crave influence. They push themselves into leadership or try to gain followers through charisma, not character. If someone constantly seeks the spotlight and resists accountability, that’s a red flag.
3. They Divide, Not Build
Wolves sow discord, gossip, and suspicion. They pit believers against each other subtly, planting doubts about pastors, leaders, or other members. Unity in the Spirit is a threat to them.
4. They Lack the Fruit of the Spirit
Look at Galatians 5:22-23. Is their life marked by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control? Wolves might fake it, but over time, the mask slips.
5. They Are Unteachable
Reproof, correction, or confrontation doesn’t humble them—it offends them. They won’t listen to counsel. They’ll spin it, attack back, or walk away with bitterness.
1. Judas Iscariot – A Wolf Among the Disciples
- Scripture: “Then Satan entered into Judas called Iscariot, who was of the number of the twelve.” – Luke 22:3
• Why They’re Wolves: Judas walked with Jesus, talked like a disciple, and even managed the group’s money. But his heart was never fully with Christ. He betrayed Jesus for personal gain and ultimately led to His arrest.Lesson: Wolves can be close. Position and proximity to Jesus don’t equal loyalty to Him.
2. Simon the Sorcerer – A Wolf After Power
- Scripture: “Give me also this power so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” – Acts 8:19
- Why They’re Wolves: Simon claimed to believe and was baptized. But when he saw the power of the Holy Spirit, he wanted to buy it. His motive wasn’t worship; it was control and status.
Lesson: Wolves seek spiritual power for selfish reasons, not for God’s glory.
3. Ananias and Sapphira – Wolves in the Offering Plate
- Scripture: Acts 5:1–11
- Why They’re Wolves: They pretended to be generous and righteous, but lied to the Holy Spirit. Their deceit was deliberate—a show for the church, not a sacrifice to God.
Lesson: Wolves often fake holiness to gain status or admiration, but their heart is corrupt.
4. False Prophets in Israel – Wolves Who Mislead the People
- Scripture: “The prophets are prophesying lies in my name. I did not send them.” – Jeremiah 14:14
- Why They’re Wolves: These men claimed to speak for God but gave the people false hope, telling them peace was coming when judgment was near. They led others into destruction with sweet-sounding lies.
Lesson: Wolves often speak what people want to hear, not what God says.
5. The Pharisees and Religious Leaders – Wolves in Religious Robes
- Scripture: “You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead.” – Matthew 23:27
- Why They’re Wolves: They loved tradition more than truth, status more than service, and rules more than relationship. They fought Jesus at every turn.
Lesson: Wolves can look devout and authoritative, but inside, they’re driven by pride and control.
6. Hymenaeus and Alexander – Wolves Who Shipwreck Faith
- Scripture: “Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme.” – 1 Timothy 1:20
- Why They’re Wolves: Paul called them out for spreading false doctrine and resisting the truth. Their influence was toxic, not corrective.
Lesson: Wolves distort the gospel, and church leaders must be willing to name and confront them.
How to Deal with Them
1. Stay Rooted in the Word
Solid doctrine protects the flock. Know the truth so well that lies are obvious. Churches must teach and model biblical literacy, not just motivational sermons.
2. Test the Spirits
1 John 4:1 says, “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” Ask: Does this person honor Christ above self? Do their actions align with Scripture?
3. Use Church Discipline
Jesus laid it out in Matthew 18:15–17. Confront sin privately, then with witnesses, and if unrepentant, bring it before the church. Wolves thrive when no one calls them out. Don’t protect wolves. Protect the sheep.
4. Keep Watch, Not Worry
This isn’t about suspicion or policing people. It’s about spiritual vigilance. Acts 20:29-30 warns us: “After my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock…” Expect it, prepare for it, and don’t be shocked when it happens.
5. Pray for Wisdom and Courage
Ask God for eyes to see and the boldness to act. Shepherds are called to protect the sheep, not just preach to them. When the wolf comes, the shepherd doesn’t run.
Final Word
The church isn’t a country club. It’s a battlefield. Wolves will show up. Some wear suits, some lead worship, some stand at the door smiling. But their fruit tells the truth. Stay alert. Stay humble. And remember, Christ is the Good Shepherd—and He’s not fooled by disguises.
