Prophet v. Prophet

Aim: To hear and believe God's prophets; and reject the devil's prophets.

Doctrine: The fate of men and nations hinges on the prophet that is heard and believed. God provides His church safeguards (so as to avoid error) and incentives (so as to embrace truth).

Exegesis: The differences between the true and false prophet: the false prophet makes bold, lying predictions (vv. 1-4); the true prophet candidly sticks with God's standards (vv. 5-11); in the end, the true prophet triumphs over the false one (vv. 12-17).

Further application: How to discern God's messengers: look for biblical patterns (of consistency and longevity), and look for sermons covering the whole counsel of God.

Key verse: v. 15 ''And Jeremiah the prophet said to the prophet Hananiah, 'Listen, Hananiah, the LORD has not sent you, and you have made this people trust in a lie.' ''