Introduction

• Matthew 7:15-20

• Matthew 7:13-14

• Acts 20:28-30

• 2 Corinthians 11:3-4

• 2 Peter 2:1

• 2 John 7

What does Jesus teach us about false teachers?

1. They are misleading.

• Matthew 7:15

• John 8:44

• Matthew 7:15

• Galatians 1:6-9

• 2 Timothy 4:1-2

• Titus 1:9-11

• Titus 2:1

2. They can be identified.

• Matthew 7:16-18

3. They will be judged.

• Matthew 7:19-20

• Matthew 3:10

4. They can repent and so can you.

Galatians 1:11-16

CONNECTION GROUP RESOURCES Connection Builder

Think of a time when you trusted someone’s words, only to find out they were misleading. How did that experience shape your discernment?

Sermon Questions

Read Matthew 7:15-20.

What does Jesus Teach Us About False Prophets (Teachers)?

1. They Are Misleading (Matthew 7:15; John 8:44; Galatians 1:6-9; 2 Timothy 4:1-2; Titus 1:9-11; Titus 2:1)

Jesus warned against false teachers appearing as “wolves in sheep’s clothing” (Matthew 7:15). What does this imagery tell us about their tactics?

Read Galatians 1:6-9—how does Paul describe the danger of distorted teaching?

According to 2 Timothy 4:1-2, what is the role of sound teaching in guarding against deception?

Group Reflection: Are there any teachings today that sound appealing but stray from the gospel? How can we guard ourselves?

2. They Can Be Identified (Matthew 7:16-18)

Jesus says, “You’ll recognize them by their fruit.” What kind of “fruit”  should we look for (Acts 20:28-30; 2 Peter 2:1, 10, 15; 1 John 4:1-6; 2 John 1:7-11)?

How can we apply discernment without becoming overly critical or judgmental?

Practical Step: Share one biblical truth that helps you discern healthy teaching from false teaching.

3. They Will Be Judged (Matthew 7:19-20; Matthew 3:10)

Jesus speaks of trees that do not bear good fruit being “cut down and thrown into the fire.” What does this say about God’s view of false teaching?

How does this warning shape the way we respond to misleading teachings?

4. They Can Repent—And So Can You (Galatians 1:11-16)

Paul, once a fierce opponent of the gospel, was transformed by Christ. What does his story teach us about repentance?

How can we approach someone caught in false teaching with grace and truth (Acts 17:11; 2 Timothy 2:24-26)?

Challenge: This week, take time to examine what influences your faith (books, sermons, podcasts). Are they aligned with God’s truth?