Be Careful, Be Discerning (Galatians 1:7)

Centuries ago, the Lord Jesus Christ warned his followers, “Beware of false prophets who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves” (Matthew 7:15). That warning is as relevant in this day and age as it was all those years ago; there are still those who manipulate the scriptures or present a ‘watered down’ version of the gospel. They may succeed in making this very attractive to the unsuspecting and, in fact, are doing much to undermine the true church of Christ. There is no easy road to salvation and anything that detracts from our Lord’s commands must be viewed with the greatest suspicion.

In calling upon you to take up your cross and to follow him, Jesus makes it abundantly clear that his is the only Christian way. That, as you know, is the way of unreserved commitment to Christ. Anything other than that, however attractive or appealing it may appear to be, is not of God. To assist you in recognising these false prophets Jesus warns, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord’ shall enter the Kingdom of Heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21).

Bro David Banda Yelulani (Banket, Zimbabwe)