Definition and Characteristics:
False prophets or dreamers are individuals who claim to speak on behalf of God or possess divine insight through dreams but are not genuinely inspired by the Holy Spirit. They often lead people astray with messages that contradict the teachings of Scripture. The Bible provides numerous warnings against such individuals, emphasizing the importance of discernment among believers.

Biblical Warnings and Identifications:
The Old Testament contains explicit warnings against false prophets. In Deuteronomy 13:1-3 , it is written: "If a prophet or dreamer of dreams arises among you and proclaims a sign or wonder to you, and if the sign or wonder he has spoken to you comes to pass, but he says, ‘Let us follow other gods’—which you have not known—‘and let us worship them,’ you must not listen to the words of that prophet or dreamer." This passage highlights that even if a sign or wonder occurs, the message must align with God's commandments.

Jeremiah also addresses false prophets, stating in Jeremiah 23:16 : "This is what the LORD of Hosts says: 'Do not listen to the words of the prophets who prophesy to you. They are filling you with false hopes. They speak visions from their own minds, not from the mouth of the LORD.'" This underscores the deceitful nature of false prophets who speak from their own imaginations rather than divine revelation.

New Testament Perspective:
The New Testament continues to caution against false prophets. Jesus Himself warned in Matthew 7:15 : "Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves." This metaphor illustrates the deceptive appearance of false prophets, who may seem harmless but have harmful intentions.

The Apostle Paul also addressed the issue in his letters. In 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 , he writes: "For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their actions." Paul emphasizes the cunning nature of false prophets and their alignment with evil.

Tests for Authenticity:
The Bible provides tests to discern true prophets from false ones. In 1 John 4:1 , believers are instructed: "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world." This test involves examining the consistency of the prophet's message with Scripture and the acknowledgment of Jesus Christ's incarnation.

Additionally, Deuteronomy 18:21-22 offers a practical test: "You may ask in your heart, ‘How can we recognize a message that the LORD has not spoken?’ When a prophet speaks in the name of the LORD and the message does not come to pass or come true, that is a message the LORD has not spoken. The prophet has spoken presumptuously. Do not be afraid of him." This test is based on the fulfillment of the prophet's predictions.

Consequences of Following False Prophets:
The Bible warns of severe consequences for both false prophets and those who follow them. In 2 Peter 2:1 , it is stated: "But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves." This passage highlights the destructive nature of false teachings and the ultimate judgment that awaits those who propagate them.

Conclusion:
The Bible consistently warns against false prophets and dreamers, urging believers to exercise discernment and remain steadfast in the truth of God's Word. By adhering to biblical teachings and testing the spirits, Christians can guard against deception and remain faithful to the Lord.