The Wolf
The wolf is Scripture's picture of the predator that scatters and devours the flock. Jesus warned of false prophets who come 'in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves,' and he sent his disciples out 'as sheep in the midst of wolves.' He contrasted himself, the good shepherd, with the hireling who 'seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep.' Paul warned the Ephesian elders that 'grievous wolves' would come in among them. Yet the prophets look ahead to a peaceable kingdom where 'the wolf also shall dwell with the lamb.'
Key Passages
Wolves in Sheep's Clothing
Matthew 7:15-16
Jesus teaches that false teachers are known not by their appearance but by their fruit.
15eware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
The Wolf Shall Dwell with the Lamb
Isaiah 11:6
Isaiah's vision of the Messiah's reign pictures natural enemies living together in peace.
6he wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.
Explore Related
Did You Know?
Jacob's blessing says Benjamin 'shall ravin as a wolf.'
Jesus said false prophets come 'in sheep's clothing.'
The good shepherd stays when the wolf comes; the hireling runs.
Isaiah 11 and 65 both picture the wolf and the lamb at peace together.