Topical Encyclopedia Flattery by false prophets is a recurring theme in the Bible, where individuals who claim to speak for God use deceitful words to lead people astray. This practice is condemned throughout Scripture as it undermines the truth and leads to spiritual and moral decay.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, false prophets often used flattery to gain favor and influence over the people and leaders of Israel. These prophets would deliver messages that aligned with the desires and expectations of their audience rather than the truth of God's word. Jeremiah 23:16 warns, "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.'" Here, the false prophets are depicted as offering false hope through flattering words, leading the people away from genuine repentance and obedience to God. Ezekiel also addresses this issue, highlighting the danger of prophets who "whitewash" the truth. In Ezekiel 13:10, it is written, "Because they have led My people astray, saying, ‘Peace,’ when there is no peace, and because when a flimsy wall is built, they plaster it with whitewash." The false prophets' flattery creates a false sense of security, preventing the people from recognizing their need for true reconciliation with God. New Testament Context The New Testament continues to warn against the dangers of flattery by false prophets. Jesus Himself cautions His followers in Matthew 7:15, "Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves." This imagery underscores the deceptive nature of false prophets who use flattery to disguise their true intentions. The Apostle Paul also addresses this issue in his letters. In Romans 16:18, he writes, "For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery, they deceive the hearts of the naive." Paul emphasizes that false prophets use flattery as a tool to manipulate and deceive, prioritizing their own desires over the truth of the Gospel. Characteristics and Consequences Flattery by false prophets is characterized by messages that prioritize human approval over divine truth. These prophets often tell people what they want to hear, rather than what they need to hear. This can lead to a false sense of security, spiritual complacency, and ultimately, separation from God. The consequences of succumbing to flattery by false prophets are severe. It can result in a community or individual straying from God's commandments, embracing sin, and facing divine judgment. The Bible consistently calls for discernment and a return to the truth of God's word as the antidote to the deception of flattery. Biblical Response The Bible encourages believers to remain vigilant and discerning, testing every spirit and prophecy against the truth of Scripture. In 1 John 4:1, it is advised, "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 call to discernment is crucial in guarding against the seductive nature of flattery by false prophets. Ultimately, the Bible exhorts believers to seek the truth, even when it is difficult or uncomfortable, and to rely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit to navigate the challenges posed by false prophets and their flattering words. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 22:13And the messenger that was gone to call Micaiah spoke to him, saying, Behold now, the words of the prophets declare good to the king with one mouth: let your word, I pray you, be like the word of one of them, and speak that which is good. Nave's Topical Index Library Sermon on the Mount Continued Its Woes in Strict Agreement with ... Prophets and Prophets. (xxiii. 9-32, xxvii-xxix, Etc. ) Of Councils and their Authority. Aron, Brother of Moses, 486, 487. How Ahab when He had Taken Jezebel to Wife Became More Wicked than ... The Scales of Judgment The Clementine Homilies Matt. x. 34 False Profession. Earnest Expostulation Resources Who was Daniel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho is the king of the South in Daniel 11? | GotQuestions.org What is apostasy and how can I recognize it? | GotQuestions.org Flattery: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Flattery by Darius's Courtiers Flattery by the Woman of Tekoah Flattery: Avoid Those Given To Flattery: False Prophets and Teachers Use Flattery: General Scriptures Concerning Flattery: Hypocrites Use, to God Flattery: Hypocrites Use, to Those in Authority Flattery: Ministers should not Use Flattery: Paul Correctly Informs Felix Flattery: Saints should not Used Flattery: Seldom Gains Respect Flattery: Tertullus Flatters Felix Flattery: The Wicked Use, to Others Flattery: The Wicked Use, to Themselves Flattery: Wisdom, a Preservative Against Flattery: Worldly Advantage Obtained By Related Terms |
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