S – The prophets who preceded you and me from ancient times prophesied war, famine, and pestilence against many countries and great kingdoms. ⁹ As for the prophet who prophesies peace, when the word of that prophet comes to pass, then it will be known that the Lord has truly sent the prophet.

Jeremiah 28:8–9 ESV

O – Commentary:

Two prophets had made conflicting claims, each one attributing his message to God. Though Jeremiah could have wished that the Lord would fulfill the words of Hananiah, nevertheless Hananiah’s prophecy was false. The ultimate test for prophets was whether their prophecies were fulfilled. A prophet was known to be sent by God only if his prediction came true (cf. Deut. 18:20–22). Time would tell whether Jeremiah or Hananiah was the false prophet.

Charles H. Dyer, “Jeremiah,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 1165.

A – When two Christian leaders had conflicting claims, the fruit of each will tell you which was from God.  With so many opinions available today, a great principle to follow is look at the fruit.  And that doesn’t always mean the audience’s response.  Look to see how it aligns with God’s heart, character and the Bible.  Look for lasting transformation from the people responding.  Finally, does it set a new way of living and relationship with God. 

R – Heavenly Father, we worship and surrender to you.  Thank you God that you are speaking and moving today.  Help us to see you genuinely and authentically.  Give us the ability to see the real “fruit” of your Word and actions in our lives.