Articles
Beware
Jesus is the good shepherd who watches for our souls (John 10:11ff). He knows the dangers that we face as His sheep. He therefore sometimes says, “Beware.”
Beware of Selfish Motives
“Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 6:1). While it is fine for others to see us doing good (Matthew 5:16), we must always be on guard lest others’ praise becomes our motive or our goal. We must always seek to glorify God, not ourselves.
Beware of False Teachers
“Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves” (Matthew 6:15). Not all that is taught in the name of religion is true. Some things are just plain wrong! Some men are unscrupulous and aim to fleece the flock for their own benefit. Others are more honest and sincere but are ignorant or confused. It is essential that we confirm what is taught by examining it in light of God’s word.
Beware of Bad Influences
“Watch out and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees” (Matthew 16:6). Leaven works from within, slowly but surely affecting the entire lump of dough. Jesus cautioned that others’ attitudes, beliefs, and lifestyles can have a similar effect of us. We are supposed to influence others for the better, but we must be careful lest the process gets reversed. And notice that it is the influence of religious people that Jesus especially cautions his disciples about.
Beware of Greed
“Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions” (Luke 12:15). It is so easy for us to confuse “green pastures” with “greenbacks”; to think that more money and more stuff will make our lives better. Life is about relationships, not things. It is about serving God and others. Who ever admits to being greedy? Jesus said the danger is real and warns us to avoid every form of it. That calls for some soul-searching, does it not?
Let’s pay attention to our Shepherd’s cautions.
