12 Bible Verses About False Prophets

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
Published on:

This article delves into the topic of false prophets and what the Bible has to say about them.

It includes twelve powerful Bible verses that warn against false prophets and their deceptive teachings.

The article emphasizes the importance of discernment and staying true to God’s teachings, and recommends reading Deuteronomy 13 and 2 Peter 2 for further insight.

False prophets are those who claim to speak on behalf of God but are not truly sent by Him, and the Bible warns against following their teachings.

Bible verses about false prophets

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about false prophets:

1. Matthew 7:15 – “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”
2. 2 Peter 2:1 – “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.”
3. 1 John 4:1 – “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”
4. Jeremiah 23:16 – “Thus saith the LORD of hosts, Hearken not unto the words of the prophets that prophesy unto you: they make you vain: they speak a vision of their own heart, and not out of the mouth of the LORD.”
5. Deuteronomy 18:20 – “But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die.”
6. Matthew 24:24 – “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.”

7. Matthew 24:11 – “And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.”

8. Mark 13:22 – “For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect.”

9. Acts 20:29-30 – “For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.”

10. 1 Timothy 4:1 – “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;”

11. 2 Timothy 4:3-4 – “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”

12. Jude 1:4 – “For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.”

What does the Bible say about false prophets?

The Bible warns against false prophets who deceive people with their false teachings and prophecies.

False prophets are those who claim to speak on behalf of God but are not truly sent by Him.

They often use their position to gain power, wealth, or influence over others.

The Bible teaches that false prophets will be judged harshly and that believers should be discerning and test the spirits to see if they are from God.

True prophets will always point people back to God and His Word, while false prophets will lead people astray.

It is important to be vigilant and seek God’s guidance to avoid being deceived by false prophets.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about false prophets?

One relevant chapter to read about false prophets is Deuteronomy 13. This chapter warns against false prophets who perform signs and wonders to lead people away from God and towards other gods. It emphasizes the importance of staying true to God and not being swayed by false teachings or miracles.

Another chapter to read is 2 Peter 2. This chapter describes false prophets who will secretly introduce destructive heresies and lead many astray. It warns against following their teachings and emphasizes the consequences of doing so.

Both of these chapters are relevant to false prophets because they warn against the dangers of following those who claim to speak for God but are actually leading people away from Him. They emphasize the importance of discernment and staying true to God’s teachings.

Ideas and concepts related to false prophets that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.

1. Deception – False prophets deceive people by claiming to speak on behalf of God, but their message is not from God. They use their charisma and persuasive skills to mislead people.

2. Idolatry – False prophets often lead people to worship false gods or idols. They may claim that these idols are the true gods or that they have a special connection to them.

3. Greed – False prophets may use their position to enrich themselves at the expense of their followers. They may demand money or other resources from their followers, promising them blessings or rewards in return.

4. Pride – False prophets may be motivated by their own ego and desire for power and influence. They may seek to build a following and gain influence over people, rather than serving God and His people.

5. Judgment – The Bible warns that false prophets will be judged by God for their deception and misleading of His people. They will face severe punishment for leading people away from the truth and into error.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.