The Master on Makes Masterpieces

via The Joshua Commission

Recognize what is Counterfeit

“For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness.” 2 Corinthians 11:13–15

The whole point of a counterfeit is to look like the real thing. It doesn’t have to be the real thing—or even try to be. It just has to look like it. To the untrained eye, a convincing counterfeit is nearly impossible to distinguish from the authentic. It deceives us, pulls us off course, and—when done well—can even lead us to defend the fake as if it were the truth.

But to the trained eye, even a single misplaced stitch, brushstroke, or subtle flaw is a blaring alarm. It’s obvious. It’s not even close. The fake is not the Master’s work.

Jesus warns us to watch out for false teachers (Matthew 7:15–16). They may appear godly, but their fruit—what they produce—reveals their true nature. The Master only creates Masterpieces. His work carries His unmistakable touch.

So what will we do, Kingdom Man? How will we tell the difference:

1. Start Your Day in the Word — Put on the Full Armor of God (Psalm 119:105, Ephesians 6:10-18)

2. Pray for and utilize Discernment —Ask for eyes to see, ears to hear, and a heart sensitive to truth (James 1:5)

3. Examine the Fruit — Pay attention to the outcomes of who/what you follow, believe and/or promote (Matthew 7:15-16)

4. Guard your Influences —Be mindful of what you allow to shape your thoughts. Feed your soul truth, not imitation (1 Cor 15:33)

5. Check your Motives — Did I choose this because it’s true, or because it looks good to others (1 Sam 16:7)

6. Be Willing to Let Go — Let go of beliefs, influences, or habits that looked good but are false. Make room fo what is real, holy and fruitful (Matthew 7:19)