Beware of false Prophets

Gospel

Matthew 7:15-20

You will be able to tell them by their fruits

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Beware of false prophets who come to you disguised as sheep but underneath are ravenous wolves. You will be able to tell them by their fruits. Can people pick grapes from thorns, or figs from thistles? In the same way, a sound tree produces good fruit but a rotten tree bad fruit. A sound tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor a rotten tree bear good fruit. Any tree that does not produce good fruit is cut down and thrown on the fire. I repeat, you will be able to tell them by their fruits.’

**Reflection:**

In today’s Gospel, Jesus warns us to be vigilant against false prophets who may appear harmless but are actually destructive. He reminds us that their true nature is revealed through their fruits—through their actions, words, and character. Just as a healthy tree bears good fruit and a diseased tree bears bad fruit, our lives should reflect the goodness and integrity that come from genuine faith. It challenges us to examine our own lives: Are our words and actions consistent with the love and truth of Christ? Are we discerning enough to recognize falsehood in others, not by appearances but by the fruits they produce?

This passage invites us to reflect on the importance of authenticity in our faith journey. Are we cultivating the "good fruit" of kindness, patience, humility, and love? Or are we allowing harmful traits to take root? The measure of our faith is not just in what we claim to believe, but in how we live it out daily.

**Question for Reflection:**

What fruits are evident in my life today, and how do they reflect my relationship with Christ?

**Short Prayer:**

Lord Jesus, You have shown us the importance of bearing good fruit. Help us to be mindful of our actions and words, so that our lives may reflect Your love and truth. Guide us in discerning false teachings and in cultivating virtues that honor You. May our lives be a testament to Your goodness, and may we always produce fruits that lead others closer to You. Amen.

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