RAVENOUS WOLVES
Beware of False Prophets
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus warned his disciples about the danger of false prophets, comparing them to “ravenous wolves” in sheep’s clothing (Mt 7:15). The Catholic Church teaches that we must be on guard against those who would lead us astray with false doctrines and empty promises.
The Book of Ezekiel also speaks of wicked rulers as “wolves tearing their prey, shedding blood, and destroying lives to extort profit” (Ezek 22:27). Jesus himself sent his apostles out “like sheep among wolves,” knowing they would face opposition and persecution from those hostile to the Gospel (Mt 10:16).
The term “ravenous” used by Jesus to describe these wolves highlights the voracious and destructive nature of false teachers. They come not to feed the flock, but to devour it. Their aim is not to build up the Body of Christ but to tear it apart through division, heresy, and sin.
The Marks of False Prophets
How can we recognize these ravenous wolves in sheep’s clothing? Jesus says we will know them by their fruits (Mt 7:16). Do their words and actions lead people closer to Christ and his Church, or do they sow seeds of doubt, rebellion, and moral laxity? The Catechism warns that false prophets “preach ‘another Jesus’ than the one the apostles announced” (CCC 675).
The Apostle John also urges us to “test the spirits to see whether they belong to God” (1 Jn 4:1). We must be discerning, comparing what we hear to the deposit of faith handed down through Scripture and Tradition. If it does not align with the teaching of the Magisterium, it is not from God.
Persevere to the End
Jesus foretold that in the last days, “many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other” (Mt 24:10). In the face of such apostasy and division, he calls us to persevere to the end. We must remain steadfast in the truth of the Gospel, rooted in the sacraments and the communion of the Church.
The Catechism reminds us that “the Church, in Christ, is like a sacrament – a sign and instrument, that is, of communion with God and of unity among all people” (CCC 775). By remaining united to Christ and his Church, we will have the strength to withstand the attacks of the wolves.
As we journey through this vale of tears, let us heed the words of St. Paul: “Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes” (Eph 6:11). With faith, hope, and love, let us remain vigilant against the wolves and persevere to the end, when we will dwell forever in the safety of our Good Shepherd’s fold.
REFLECTION
As followers of Christ, we are called to be vigilant and discerning in our faith journey. The presence of false prophets is a reminder of the constant need for prayer, study, and fidelity to the teachings of the Church. By staying rooted in the sacraments and the teachings of the Magisterium, we can navigate the challenges posed by false doctrines and misleading voices. Let us support one another in our faith, encourage each other to grow in holiness, and remain steadfast in our commitment to the truth of the Gospel. In doing so, we fulfill our calling as disciples of Christ, shining as lights in a world often clouded by deception and sin.