Counsels on Christian Worldview

Counsel #5 — Signs Vs. Fruit

Picture: Counsel #5 — Signs Vs. Fruit CCW 168.1

One sure sign of a true prophet is the fruit of their ministry. If God speaks through someone, that message cannot contradict God’s character. Even when a true prophet—Balaam—tried to rebel against God, he could not counteract and prophesy in opposition to God’s will.^[249] A true prophet will never teach anything that will lead people into sin or live lives contradicting holiness.^[250] CCW 168.2

“Therefore by their fruits you will know them.” Matthew 7:20 NKJV CCW 168.3

“Professing to have great and new light, [false prophets] advocate that which appears at first sight to be a high state of holiness; but when they are assured of the confidence of the people they are deluding, they talk out the true sentiments of their corrupt souls…. as these false prophets dare to venture, they make unholy advances and betray unwary souls into sin, and under the garb of sanctity, commit the most revolting crimes.” Ellen White in Letters and Manuscripts, vol. 9, Manuscript 106, 1894, par. 6 CCW 168.4

Reflect: Why is the inability of Balaam to counteract God's will a significant point regarding true prophets? CCW 168.5