Wolves in sheep’s clothing symbolize a person pretending to be someone they are not, usually with evil intent. Wolf and sheep are very different animals. Jesus uses a wolf in sheep’s clothing phrase to distinguish false prophets. Matthew 7:15Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves. 16 You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act.[1]
In our culture, we need discernment to avoid being entangled in the traps of the enemy. Satan often uses stealth and craftiness to blind people to their actions. I remember being at a Pastor’s conference and not listening very intently, and then something the speaker said was utterly wrong and misleading. I don’t think he was trying to lead people astray, but his views did not align with the Bible. As I reflected on what had occurred, the Holy Spirit alerted me to someone speaking falsely, which gave me discernment.
What is the Difference Between Judging and Discerning?
While it is true, we should not be judgmental about people, that does not mean we are not to be discerning. To be discerning is very important because our enemy works to deceive us. Discernment may seem like judgment, but the difference between these two approaches to life is significant. The dictionary definitions of the two terms shed some light.
- Judgment: “an opinion or estimate, criticism or censure, power of comparing or deciding.”
- Discernment is the cognitive ability of a person to distinguish what is appropriate or inappropriate. With discernment, we make good choices for ourselves and the good of others. [2]
During the ministry of Jesus, He confronted the religious leaders several times. Although the religious leaders dressed in religious garb, their actions indicated they were not people of faith. As Jesus ministered during the week of the cross, He again encountered the religious leaders as they questioned His authority.
Not only did they question Jesus’ authority, but they sent out wolves in sheep’s clothing to spy on Jesus. Luke 20:20 Watching for their opportunity, the leaders sent spies pretending to be honest men. They tried to get Jesus to say something that could be reported to the Roman governor so he would arrest Jesus.[3] Fortunately, Jesus was discerning and saw through their trickery.
The Lord is Our Source of Wisdom
Do you need the Lord’s discernment and wisdom to navigate life? I believe we all do! James 1:5 If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.[4] Don’t be afraid to approach God for wisdom; He wants you to be discerning. To learn more about wolves in sheep’s clothing, listen here:
[1,3,4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.
[2] https://www.awakeningself.com/writing/judgement-vs-discernment/