How can we "test the spirits" to discern truth from falsehood today? Start with John’s Clear Command “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God. For many false prophets have gone out into the world.” (1 John 4:1) John speaks to everyday believers, not specialists. The call to test is an ongoing lifestyle, not a one-time event. Identify the Central Test: Christ’s Identity • 1 John 4:2-3 sets the baseline: “Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God…” • Any voice—teacher, movement, article, podcast—that dodges, redefines, or diminishes the full deity and true humanity of Jesus fails the test. • Compare with 2 John 1:7 and Galatians 1:8: “Even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel contrary…let him be under a curse!” Compare Every Message to Scripture • Acts 17:11 shows the Bereans “examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” • Scripture is the non-negotiable measuring stick: “All Scripture is God-breathed…” (2 Timothy 3:16). • Ask: Does this claim line up with the plain meaning of the Word—not just a verse here or there, but the whole counsel of God? Inspect the Fruit • Jesus warned, “By their fruit you will recognize them.” (Matthew 7:15-16). • The Holy Spirit produces Galatians 5:22-23 qualities; counterfeit spirits may deliver charisma, novelty, or even miracles but leave behind pride, division, or moral compromise. • Evaluate both the messenger’s life and the impact on followers. Notice What or Whom the Spirit Glorifies • John 16:13-14: the Spirit of truth “will glorify Me,” Jesus says. • Authentic leading always drives attention to Christ’s person, work, and Word—never to secret knowledge, personal empire, or fleshly excitement. Stay in Fellowship and Accountability • Lone-ranger discernment is risky. God places us in a body (Ephesians 4:11-14) so that mature believers help guard against deception. • Submit novel insights to trusted pastors and seasoned Christians; humility is a safeguard. Rely on Prayerful Dependence and the Spirit’s Witness • James 1:5 invites us to ask God for wisdom; He gives generously. • Romans 8:16 speaks of the Spirit bearing witness with our spirit. While subjective impressions are secondary to Scripture, the indwelling Spirit grants inner confirmation or caution. Living Daily in Discernment • Soak your mind in the Word. • Keep Jesus—the crucified, risen, and returning Lord—at the center. • Walk in the Spirit, producing His fruit. • Remain teachable and connected to Christ’s church. Practiced together, these steps keep us anchored in truth and equipped to spot falsehood, fulfilling John’s timeless exhortation to “test the spirits.” |
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