How does Hebrews 5:14 relate to spiritual discernment in 1 Corinthians 2:15? Grounded in the Texts • Hebrews 5:14: “But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil.” • 1 Corinthians 2:15: “The spiritual man judges all things, but he himself is not subject to anyone’s judgment.” Growing From Milk to Meat (Hebrews 5:14) • “Solid food” pictures deeper teaching—truth that stretches believers beyond spiritual infancy (vv. 12-13). • “For the mature” underscores that discernment is tied to growth; no shortcuts. • “Constant use” shows that practice—regular exposure to Scripture, obedience, and life application—sharpens perception. • Result: believers “distinguish good from evil,” developing a moral and doctrinal radar. The Spiritual Person (1 Corinthians 2:15) • “Judges all things” (krínein = examines, discerns) reflects Spirit-enabled evaluation of life, ideas, and motives (cf. v. 14). • “Not subject to anyone’s judgment” means the natural world cannot accurately appraise Spirit-led insight (v. 16: “we have the mind of Christ”). • Paul’s contrast: natural vs. spiritual; the latter operates with divine perspective. Shared Themes: Discernment as Skill • Source: Both texts attribute discernment to God’s work—either via “the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2) or “solid food” that God supplies (Hebrews 5). • Maturity: Hebrews highlights training; Corinthians describes the mature outcome. • Scope: Hebrews focuses on moral choices; Corinthians includes all realms (“all things”). • Protection: In both, discernment shields believers from deception and misplaced human criticism. Linked Passages • Philippians 1:9-10—love “abounding” in “knowledge and every discernment.” • Romans 12:2—renewed mind “approves what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.” • 1 John 4:1—“test the spirits.” • Psalm 119:98-100—God’s word makes the believer “wiser than my enemies.” Tools God Provides for Discernment • Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17) • The indwelling Spirit (John 16:13) • Obedience that reinforces truth (John 7:17) • Fellowship and teaching gifts within the body (Ephesians 4:11-15) Practical Steps Toward Maturity 1. Feed on “solid food”: commit to systematic, whole-Bible study. 2. Practice: apply biblical principles daily; reflection turns knowledge into discernment. 3. Walk by the Spirit: stay sensitive through prayer and confession (Galatians 5:16). 4. Evaluate influences: measure books, media, and counsel against Scripture. 5. Embrace accountability: mature believers sharpen one another (Proverbs 27:17). |
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