The lecture speaks about the commandment of the Lord Christ: “Beware of false prophets,” and how the believer must be vigilant in distinguishing correct teaching from distorted teaching. His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains that the word “prophet” does not only mean one who foretells the future, but it may also mean a person who conveys the message of God or a teacher who teaches people.
He explains that false prophets are teachers who lead people away from the true faith, even if they appear in a form of piety or use religious words and verses from the Holy Bible. Therefore, the believer should not accept any teaching merely because its speaker appears righteous or famous.
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III also referred to what was mentioned in the Book of Deuteronomy about the necessity of rejecting any teaching that distances a person from God, even if it is accompanied by signs or wonders. Correct faith is more important than appearances or miracles.
The lecture clarifies that some heresies appeared from within the Church itself through teachers and preachers, and therefore spiritual discernment and continuous examination of every teaching are necessary. He also pointed out that the scribes and Pharisees were an example of those who appeared in sheep’s clothing while their teachings led people away from the right path.
The main spiritual message is the necessity of remaining steadfast in the correct Orthodox faith and not being deceived by outward appearances or sweet words, but always returning to the holy teaching of the Church and spiritual discernment.
“For better translation support, please contact the center
The Sermon on the Mount – Beware of False Prophets Part 1
The lecture speaks about the commandment of the Lord Christ: “Beware of false prophets,” and how the believer must be vigilant in distinguishing correct teaching from distorted teaching. His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains that the word “prophet” does not only mean one who foretells the future, but it may also mean a person who conveys the message of God or a teacher who teaches people.
He explains that false prophets are teachers who lead people away from the true faith, even if they appear in a form of piety or use religious words and verses from the Holy Bible. Therefore, the believer should not accept any teaching merely because its speaker appears righteous or famous.
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III also referred to what was mentioned in the Book of Deuteronomy about the necessity of rejecting any teaching that distances a person from God, even if it is accompanied by signs or wonders. Correct faith is more important than appearances or miracles.
The lecture clarifies that some heresies appeared from within the Church itself through teachers and preachers, and therefore spiritual discernment and continuous examination of every teaching are necessary. He also pointed out that the scribes and Pharisees were an example of those who appeared in sheep’s clothing while their teachings led people away from the right path.
The main spiritual message is the necessity of remaining steadfast in the correct Orthodox faith and not being deceived by outward appearances or sweet words, but always returning to the holy teaching of the Church and spiritual discernment.
“For better translation support, please contact the center