The Life Of Jesus Christ In Its Historical Connexion

Christ had now pointed out the moral requisites for entrance into his kingdom, and the moral qualities which must mark its members. He now warns them (v.13) against the delusion of expecting to secure its blessings in any easier way than he had pointed out, or hoping to avoid struggle and self-denial; [412] and cautions them against false teachers, who would lead them into such delusions, and draw them out of the right way. First, he gives a warning against such as shall falsely pretend to a Divine call as teachers and guides, inspired by self-seeking alone. "Wolves in sheep's clothing, [413] their evil fruits, proofs of their evil hearts, distinguish them from genuine prophets of God" (v.15, 20). This warning was strikingly applicable at that time of out-breaking battle with the hierarchical and Pharisaic party.

The general proposition, that the state of the heart must be shown by the "fruits," is then applied to all believers (v.21-23). Not every one who honours Jesus as Messiah and Theocratic King; and makes a zealous confession thereof, is thereby fitted to share in the kingdom; the heart must be shown to accord with the confession, by a faithful performance of the will of God. [414] ["Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."]

VI. True and False Disciples Contrasted.