The signs we are going to discuss in this book are applicable not only to prophets, but also to teachers or shepherds. There are many who teach the Word; how do we know when truth is spoken? How do we identify a false prophet?
There is much instruction in the Scriptures to teach us how to identify a false prophet. This study will help you to discern between a true prophet of God and a false prophet. There are many signs to look out for. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but a good foundation.
Simply defined, a false teacher is an individual who has influence over others and exalts his own knowledge and authority over God's without regard for how others will be affected. A false teacher has a philosophy and makes statements that are in direct contradiction to what the Bible teaches. Because much of what they pass off as absolute truth is contrary to sound doctrine (as revealed in scripture), the false prophets leave behind a wake of division and strife (Romans 16:17).