Today’s Thought “Snake Oil Salesmen” G. Ward

Deuteronomy 18: ²⁰ But the prophet who presumes to speak a message in my name that I have not commanded him to speak, or who speaks in the name of other gods—that prophet must die.

This verse mandates strict accountability for spiritual leaders, condemning unauthorized, arrogant, or idolatrous messages as treasonous against God, highlighting the danger of false prophecy. The penalty for such actions was death, highlighting the severe consequences of leading people away from God. The actuality then, is the same administrative Holy God now and some say HE doesn’t insist some die now, I say, Yes HE does. Many are condemned to hell and that’s eternal death (*Heb.10:26-27). Riches and fame have become the mantra to these false prophets now and while echoes of scripture fall from their lips, their hearts are seared in greed (1 Ti.4:2). They spend far too much time gathering monies, compelling people seated, with ploys similar to playing a lottery (2 Cor.9:7). Truth demands that no one become so enamored with temples and charismatic preachers, but live for God and not the big show (1 Cor.2:1-5). You must be careful not to be found teeter-tottering in that kind of idolatry, for it delivers death, not the life Christ proposed.

Father God, You insisted that our pursuits would envelope Hope in Christ, that is remaining in the grip where grace found us and whereas we’re grateful in/through how the Savior brought us when our rebellion was at its peak, to then rescue our souls, may we shout a resounding – “We’ll Follow(!)”, guarding the treasure within through moment-to-moment meditations in HIS Word; in Jesus Name, Amen.