“Greedy Dogs” #1191

11 Yes, they are greedy dogs which never have enough. And they are shepherds who cannot understand; They all look to their own way, every one for his own gain, from his own territory. 12 “Come,” one says, “I will bring wine, and we will fill ourselves with intoxicating drink; Tomorrow will be as today, and much more abundant.” (Isaiah 56:11–12, NKJV)

By the time Isaiah spoke God’s word to a rebellious people, the prophets, priests and kings of Israel had become consumed with greed, self-interest and sinful indulgence. Instead of being God’s watchmen, warning Israel of danger, they were blinded by personal gain (Isaiah 56:10). The shepherds were fleecing God’s sheep (Ezekiel 34:1-6). The Lord God brought His judgment upon them for their faithless dereliction of duty (Ezekiel 34:7-10). Today, those who are charged with leading God’s people, teaching and warning them from God’s word of sin’s danger, must refuse the temptation of personal advancement and lure of personal gain. Elders of churches have become corporate CEOs tending capital, instead of shepherds tending souls (Hebrews 13:17; Acts 20:28). Gospel preaching has become a career path, instead of a servant’s calling (2 Timothy 4:1-5). All the while, Christians starve for spiritual guidance, while “greedy dogs” indulge themselves. Harsh words? This warning is intended to convict and convert, lest a worse fate befall all who serve themselves, instead of serving the Lord and His people.

Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing #546

15  Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16  You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? 17  Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18  A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19  Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20  Therefore by their fruits you will know them. (Matthew 7:15–20, NKJV)

Are you sure your preacher is preaching the truth? How do you know? Jeremiah warned of prophets who “prophesy lies in my name” by speaking “the deceit of their heart” (Jer. 14:14). These two-legged wolves in sheep’s clothing continue to devour God’s flock by speaking error in the name of God. When someone speaks on behalf of God we must test what is said to be sure it is indeed from God. Our measuring stick is inspired Scripture, including what the apostles taught (Acts 17:11-12; 1 Jno. 4:1, 6). You see, it does matter what is taught and what is believed. If doctrine doesn’t matter, then why does Jesus warn us of the wolves?