In the biblical context, distinguishing between true and false prophets is crucial for understanding divine revelation and maintaining the integrity of faith. The Bible provides specific criteria to identify true prophets and to expose false ones, ensuring that believers are not led astray by deceptive teachings.

True Prophets:

1. Divine Calling and Commission:
True prophets are called and commissioned by God. They do not assume the role of a prophet on their own initiative. For instance, Jeremiah was called by God before he was born: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to the nations" (Jeremiah 1:5).

2. Faithfulness to God's Word:
True prophets faithfully convey God's message without alteration. They speak in accordance with the established Word of God. Deuteronomy 18:18-19 states, "I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers. I will put My words in his mouth, and he will tell them everything I command him."

3. Fulfillment of Prophecies:
The prophecies of a true prophet come to pass. Deuteronomy 18:22 provides a clear test: "If what a prophet proclaims in the name of the LORD does not take place or come to pass, that is a message the LORD has not spoken."

4. Moral Integrity and Righteousness:
True prophets lead lives of moral integrity and righteousness, reflecting the character of God. Their lives are consistent with the message they proclaim.

5. Alignment with Previous Revelation:
True prophets do not contradict previous revelations given by God. Isaiah 8:20 advises, "To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn."

False Prophets:

1. Self-Appointed and Deceptive:
False prophets often appoint themselves and claim authority without divine commissioning. They may use their position for personal gain or influence. Jeremiah 14:14 warns, "The prophets are prophesying lies in My name. I did not send them or appoint them or speak to them."

2. Contradiction of God's Word:
False prophets speak messages that contradict the established Word of God. They may promote idolatry or immorality. Deuteronomy 13:1-3 warns against prophets who lead people to other gods, even if their signs or wonders come to pass.

3. Unfulfilled Prophecies:
The predictions of false prophets do not come to pass. This is a clear indication that they are not speaking from God. As stated in Deuteronomy 18:22, if a prophecy does not occur, it is not from the LORD.

4. Immoral Conduct:
False prophets often lead lives that are inconsistent with the teachings of righteousness and holiness. Jesus warned about recognizing false prophets by their fruits: "By their fruit you will recognize them" (Matthew 7:16).

5. Popularity and Acceptance by the World:
False prophets may be widely accepted and popular, as they often tell people what they want to hear rather than the truth. 2 Timothy 4:3-4 cautions, "For the time will come when men will not tolerate sound doctrine, but with itching ears they will gather around themselves teachers to suit their own desires."

The Bible emphasizes the importance of discernment and vigilance in identifying true and false prophets. Believers are encouraged to test the spirits and hold fast to what is good, ensuring that their faith remains rooted in the truth of God's Word.