Watchout For WOLVES: Keys To Discerning Authentic Ministries & Evaluating Doctrinal Trends

A snare is an instrument for hunting. It is a trap that is set for something or someone that is hidden from obvious view. When a snare seizes its prey it is usually unexpected, sudden and without warning.

Paul further warns us that at times the devil will use people in ministry to trick or deceive believers (Eph. 4:14).

Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth . Ephesians 4:14, NLT God wants His people to be as wise as serpents (Mt. 10:16). Sometimes the wolves about which we are warned are not just the unsaved who bring persecution to the church, sometimes the wolves actually arise from within the church and damage the work of God (Acts 20:29-30). For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves. Acts 20:29-30

The Book of Proverbs offers these cautions:

The simple believes every word, but the prudent considers well his steps. Proverbs 14:15

A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself, but the simple pass on and are punished. Proverbs 22:3

A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences. Proverbs 22:3, NLT

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