You asked

what kinds of modern messages or leaders might we be tempted to follow despite warning signs?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Matthew 7:15-16

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves. By their fruits you will know them. Do men gather grapes from thorns, or figs from thistles?”

Jesus is concluding his Sermon on the Mount, teaching his followers about living a life that reflects God's ways. He has been challenging them to think deeply about their actions and intentions, and here he warns them about deceptive influences.

What 'fruits' do we currently see that might help us discern the true nature of messages or leaders?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

Deuteronomy 13:1-5
This Old Testament passage provides early guidance on testing prophets, focusing on whether their predictions come true and if they lead people away from God.
1 John 4:1
This New Testament passage advises believers to 'test the spirits' to see whether they are from God, emphasizing discernment in a later Christian context.

Ask your own follow-up