R.E.A.P. for Matthew 7:15-23 - False Prophets

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for Matthew 7:15-23 (ESV)  
Guarding Against False Prophets and Embracing True Faith

“Today’s exploration takes us to Matthew 7:15-23, where Jesus warns of false prophets and underscores the importance of genuine faith. By engaging with these teachings, you are stepping into a deeper discernment and authenticity in your spiritual journey. Let this scripture guide you in identifying truth and living a life that reflects Christ’s character.”

1. Read  

Matthew 7:15-23 (ESV):  “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will recognize them by their fruits. Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’”

The book of Matthew records the teachings and life of Jesus, emphasizing His role as the Messiah who fulfills Old Testament prophecies. Chapter 7 is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus imparts wisdom on righteous living. Here, He warns against deceit in spiritual leadership and stresses the authentic expression of faith through actions. This passage reminds believers to discern truth and pursue a faith rooted in obedience to God’s will.

2. Examine  

This passage urges discernment to distinguish false prophets from true followers of Christ by their actions and character, much like identifying a tree by its fruit. Jesus highlights the necessity of genuine faith over mere outward appearances or verbal declarations, emphasizing that true discipleship involves doing the Father’s will.

Connection to Jesus: Jesus exemplified truth and integrity, living in complete alignment with God’s will. His life was a testament to bearing good fruit—love, justice, and truth. By following His example, believers are called to live out their faith authentically, ensuring their actions mirror the teachings of Christ.

Main Themes:  
- **Discernment**: The ability to identify truth from falsehood by evaluating actions and outcomes.
- **Authentic Faith**: True discipleship is evidenced by aligning actions with God’s will.
- **Integrity**: A call to inward transformation that is visible through outward righteousness.

Key Word Study:  
- **"Fruits" (Greek: karpos)**: Symbolizes the results or evidence of one’s actions and character. Emphasizes that genuine faith produces positive outcomes in life.
- **"Knew" (Greek: ginōskō)**: Relates to personal, intimate knowledge. Jesus stresses relational knowledge over mere acknowledgment, underscoring the importance of a deep, personal connection with Him.

3. Apply  

Reflective Questions:  
- In what ways can I discern between true and false teachings in my life?
- How can I ensure my actions reflect genuine faith and God’s will?
- What specific areas in my life require a deeper alignment with Christ’s teachings?

Christ-Centered Practical Steps:  
- **Discern Teachings**: Evaluate spiritual messages by comparing them to Scripture and observing the “fruits” of their influence on your life.
- **Pursue Integrity**: Identify an area where you might be tempted to superficially express faith and take purposeful steps toward genuine transformation.
- **Deepen Connections**: Spend intentional time in prayer asking for a more intimate relationship with Jesus, seeking to know Him more deeply and align your actions with His will.

Real-Life Example: Consider an individual surrounded by competitive colleagues at work who often compromise ethics for success. Instead of conforming, they choose to uphold integrity, influenced by their commitment to Christ’s teachings. This decision not only strengthens their faith but also becomes a beacon of righteousness that impacts their entire workplace.

4. Pray

Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your wisdom that guides me toward truth and integrity. I confess moments where I’ve focused on appearances rather than genuine faith. Grant me discernment to recognize false teachings and the courage to pursue a life grounded in Your will. Help me to bear good fruit in every aspect of my life, reflecting Your love and truth. Empower me through Your Spirit to deepen my relationship with You and live faithfully. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Closing Reflection: “Imagine your heart as a tree tended by God’s own hand. As you nurture it with His truth and love, see it grow strong, bearing fruit that nourishes those around you. Let the roots of your faith delve deep into His Word, fortifying you against the storms of deception and doubt.”

Call to Action: Today, take a step towards nurturing authentic faith by committing to a moment of reflection and prayer. Let your life be a testament to the truth and integrity found in Christ, cultivating relationships rooted in love and goodness.