Read Ezekiel 13:1-16
There are plenty of references to the evils of false prophets in the Bible in both the old and New Testaments. Even Jesus warns us about them in Matthew 24:11-13 when he said, “And many false prophets will appear and will deceive many people. Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” Do we learn anything different in God’s message through Ezekiel?
Like others before them, these false prophets were recognized as descendants of God’s people, living among the people. Yet these false prophets did nothing to support their community during battle. Their visions and predictions were nothing but lies. God’s message tells us they will be banished and unable to return to their homes. How could they claim peace where there was no peace?
Clearly, these false prophets were disillusioned. Or perhaps they were attention seekers. What was their motivation? Why did they purposefully deceive the people? Had they brainwashed themselves into believing these lies, too?
The LORD’s message brilliantly accuses these false prophets of whitewashing. Dictionary.com describes whitewashing as, “intentionally hiding some kind of wrongdoing, error, or unpleasant situation—or deal with it in a way that attempts to make it seem less bad than it is.” The more “popular” message would be to say there is peace. That lie would certainly be “hiding” the truth of God’s message.
What good does it do to try and downplay or sugar coat God’s message? It only seems to anger God and incite him to want to prove his point. The people have fallen away, and soon God’s wrath will fall upon them. At last they’ll realize who God’s prophets truly were.
When I listen to preachers these days, some tend to downplay Biblical truths. Is that because they don’t want to make certain people feel uncomfortable? To say the Bible is “outdated” or doesn’t apply to our current culture is a false message. God’s word is timeless. Isaiah 40:8 says, “The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.”
Can you think of false prophets or teachers you’ve encountered? Did you fall prey to their lies? It can be hard to discern at times can’t it? That’s why arming ourselves with God’s word, the everlasting truth, is our best action. That, of course, and seeking counsel from the Holy Spirit. If you’re ever in doubt, ask God.
Let’s pray. LORD, again I am humbled by your majesty and the wisdom found in your world. Thank you for opening my eyes to see your heart and best intentions for us. Forgive me for the times when I have allowed false teachings to influence me or distract me from the truth. As you know, those false teachers can be very persuasive. Cleanse my heart and mind to think clearly and see you moving in my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
