How can we discern the "distinguishing between spirits" in today's world? Scripture foundation 1 Corinthians 12:10: “to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in various tongues, to still another the interpretation of tongues.” What “distinguishing between spirits” means • The Holy Spirit grants believers insight to recognize whether a spiritual influence is from God, the flesh, or the demonic realm. • This gift safeguards the church from deception and keeps believers anchored in truth that never fails. Why the gift matters in today’s world • Digital voices, cultural movements, and even religious messages compete for allegiance. • False teaching often sounds persuasive because it borrows biblical language while twisting its meaning. • The gift enables clear, confident obedience to Christ amid noisy confusion. Five scriptural tests that never fail • Christological test – 1 John 4:2–3: every spirit that confesses Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God. • Word test – Hebrews 4:12; Ephesians 6:17: the living, active Word slices through error and exposes motives. • Fruit test – Galatians 5:22–23; Matthew 7:20: authentic influence produces love, joy, peace, and the rest of the Spirit’s fruit. • Holiness test – Deuteronomy 13:1–3: signs and wonders cannot overrule loyalty to the Lord’s commands. • Community test – Acts 17:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:19–22: mature believers examine teaching together and hold fast to what is good. Practical pathways to grow in discernment • Saturate the mind with daily Scripture so counterfeit ideas stand out instantly. • Stay humble and teachable; pride clouds perception. • Walk in step with the Spirit through repentance, worship, and obedience so His promptings remain clear. • Listen to seasoned believers and tested teachers; wisdom is confirmed in fellowship. • Pause before embracing a message; the Spirit never rushes people into error. Recognizing fruit and motivations • God-breathed wisdom is “pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere” (James 3:17). • Earthly, unspiritual, demonic wisdom fuels jealousy, selfish ambition, and disorder (James 3:15-16). • Observe long-term outcomes: genuine revival elevates Christ, strengthens holiness, and exalts Scripture. Common modern scenarios • Media teachers who downplay sin or redefine marriage—fail the holiness test. • Prophetic claims urging fear or division—fail the fruit test. • Trendy spirituality that prizes personal experience above Scripture—fails the Word test. • Messages that magnify the messenger more than Jesus—fail the Christological and humility tests. Encouragement for the journey God has not left His people at the mercy of deception. He supplies the gift of distinguishing between spirits, illuminates His unchanging Word, and places believers in supportive fellowship. As we walk in the Spirit, immerse ourselves in Scripture, and weigh every influence by these reliable tests, we will stand firm in truth and help others do the same. |
    |