¹⁵ “Be on your guard against false prophets^(A) who come to you in sheep’s^(B) clothing^(C) but inwardly are ravaging wolves.^{(D) 16} You’ll recognize them by their fruit.^(E) Are grapes gathered from thornbushes or figs from thistles?^{(F) 17} In the same way, every good tree produces good fruit, but a bad tree produces bad fruit. ¹⁸ A good tree can’t produce bad fruit; neither can a bad tree produce good fruit. ¹⁹ Every tree that doesn’t produce good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.^{(G) 20} So you’ll recognize them by their fruit.^(H)

⁴ Jesus replied to them, “Watch out that no one deceives^(A) you. ⁵ For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and they will deceive many.^(B)

¹¹ Many false prophets^(A) will rise up and deceive many.

²⁴ For false messiahs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders to lead astray,^(A) if possible, even the elect.

⁸ Then he said, “Watch out that you are not deceived.^(A) For many will come in my name,^(B) saying, ‘I am he,’^(C) and, ‘The time is near.’ Don’t follow them.^(D)

Warning against Divisive People

¹⁷ Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who create divisions and obstacles contrary to the teaching that you learned.^(A) Avoid them,^(B)

¹⁸ because such people do not serve our Lord Christ^(A) but their own appetites.^[a](B) They deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting with smooth talk and flattering words.^(C)