"Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves." (Matt. 7:15) "For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them." (Acts 20:29-30)

The May 1987 edition of the National Geographic included a feature about arctic wolfs. Author L. David Mech described how a seven-member pack had targeted several musk-oxen calves who were guarded by eleven adults. As the wolves approached their quarry, the musk-oxen bunched in an impenetrable semicircle, their deadly rear hooves facing out, and the calves remained safe during a long standoff with the enemy. But then a single ox broke rank, and the herd scattered into nervous little groups. A skirmish ensued, and the adults finally fled in panic, leaving the calves to the mercy of the predators. Not a single calf survived.

Both Jesus and Paul warned of grievous wolves. Wolves cannot destroy the local congregation as long as each member holds rigidly to the truth. It is only when members break ranks that many become easy prey.