How can we discern truth when others say, "He is demon-possessed"? Setting the Scene “Many of them were saying, ‘He is demon-possessed and insane. Why would you listen to Him?’” (John 10:20). Jesus had just declared, “I am the good Shepherd” (John 10:14), and some listeners immediately dismissed Him with a severe accusation. The question for us is clear: when similar charges arise today, how do we know who is speaking truth? Recognize the Source of the Accusation • Scripture records that religious leaders often branded Jesus and His followers as demon-possessed (John 8:48-49; Matthew 12:24). • Such accusations typically came from hearts resistant to His authority (John 10:26). • Expect opposition whenever truth confronts pride, tradition, or hidden sin (John 3:19-20). Measure the Message by Scripture • Truth never contradicts the written Word. “The word of the LORD stands forever” (1 Peter 1:25). • Compare every teaching to clear biblical doctrine (Acts 17:11). • If the message diminishes Christ’s deity, atonement, or resurrection, it is not from God (1 John 4:2-3). Examine the Works and Fruit • Jesus appealed to His works: “If I am not doing My Father’s works, do not believe Me” (John 10:37). • Genuine ministry produces fruit consistent with the Spirit: love, joy, peace, etc. (Galatians 5:22-23). • Persistent unrighteousness exposes counterfeit leaders (Matthew 7:15-20). Listen for the Shepherd’s Voice • “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me” (John 10:27). • The Spirit bears witness within believers (Romans 8:16). • Those who belong to Christ sense the ring of His truth even when the crowd shouts, “He is demon-possessed.” Depend on the Spirit’s Discernment • “The spiritual man judges all things” (1 Corinthians 2:15). • Pray for illumination; the Spirit guides into all truth (John 16:13). • Growth in the Word trains our senses “to distinguish between good and evil” (Hebrews 5:14). Guard Against Slander • Satan is the “accuser of our brothers” (Revelation 12:10). • Repeating unfounded charges without evidence aligns us with his tactics (James 4:11). • Uphold the Ninth Commandment by verifying facts before accepting rumors (Exodus 20:16). Hold Fast to Christ • Accusations will intensify as His return approaches (2 Timothy 3:12-13). • Keep eyes fixed on the Shepherd who laid down His life for the sheep (John 10:11). • Trust His promise: “Everyone who is of the truth listens to My voice” (John 18:37). |
    |