How can we discern God's voice today, as He spoke in Hebrews 1:1? The God Who Still Speaks “On many past occasions and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers through the prophets.” (Hebrews 1:1) • Same God, same desire to communicate • He spoke “many times” and “in many ways”—varied methods then, reliable patterns now His Primary Voice: the Written Word • 2 Timothy 3:16-17—Scripture is “God-breathed” and sufficient • Hebrews 4:12—the Word “is living and active,” so reading it equals hearing Him • Psalm 119:105—His Word lights every step; no new guidance will contradict it The Final Word: His Son • Hebrews 1:2—“in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son” • John 14:9—seeing Jesus is seeing the Father; learning Christ’s character tunes our spiritual ears • Colossians 3:16—“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly” so that Christ’s mindset shapes discernment Five Current Channels God Uses 1. Scripture—always the touchstone 2. The inner witness of the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:16; John 16:13) 3. Providential circumstances (Acts 16:6-10) 4. Wise, godly counsel within the church (Proverbs 11:14; Ephesians 4:11-12) 5. Creation and conscience pointing to His truth (Psalm 19:1-4; Romans 2:15) Tests for Discernment • Alignment with explicit Scripture (Isaiah 8:20) • Exaltation of Jesus rather than self (John 16:14) • Confirmation by mature believers (Proverbs 15:22) • Peace that guards the heart (Philippians 4:7) • Lasting fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) Practices That Sharpen Our Hearing • Daily, unhurried Bible meditation—listening more than skimming • Consistent prayer, including silence (1 Samuel 3:9) • Immediate obedience to what is already clear (James 1:22) • Regular fellowship, sermons, and teaching—God still uses “prophets” in the sense of proclaimers of His Word • Journaling insights to trace patterns of His leading Encouragement to Act on What We Hear • Luke 11:28—“Blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” • Hebrews 3:15—“Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” The same Lord who spoke in many ways before is speaking through His unchanging Word, His indwelling Spirit, and His providential hand. As we anchor every impression to Scripture, seek Christ’s honor, and walk in obedience, we can confidently discern His voice today. |
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