How can we discern God's work in situations that challenge religious traditions? The Setting: Jesus Heals on the Sabbath John 9 records Jesus restoring sight to a man born blind—on a Sabbath. Immediately, religious leaders argue: “Therefore some of the Pharisees said, ‘This Man is not from God, for He does not keep the Sabbath.’ But others said, ‘How can a sinful man perform such signs?’ And there was division among them.” (John 9:16) God’s work stands before them, yet tradition blurs their vision. Their dilemma helps shape reliable ways to recognize the hand of God when familiar religious patterns feel disrupted. Why Traditions Can Cloud Spiritual Sight • Traditions provide stability, but when elevated above Scripture they become rigid lenses (Mark 7:8–9). • Fear of losing influence or comfort may harden hearts, even against clear evidence of God’s grace (John 11:48). • Over-confidence in human interpretation can drown out fresh revelation that still aligns with God’s written Word. Key Tests for Discernment 1. Alignment with the Whole Counsel of Scripture • God never contradicts Himself (Psalm 119:160). • Jesus’ Sabbath healings fulfilled the Law’s purpose of mercy (Isaiah 58:6; Luke 6:9). 2. Exaltation of Christ • Genuine works of God magnify Jesus, not the worker (John 3:30; Colossians 1:18). 3. Evident Fruit of the Spirit • “You will recognize them by their fruit” (Matthew 7:16). • Long-term results—repentance, love, joy, holiness—confirm divine origin (Galatians 5:22-23). 4. Consistent Witness of the Holy Spirit • The Spirit bears witness in the believer’s heart (Romans 8:16) while illuminating Scripture (John 16:13-14). 5. Affirmation within the Body of Faithful Believers • Wise, mature Christians help test experiences (Proverbs 11:14; Acts 15:28). Biblical Snapshots Illustrating the Tests • Acts 10 – Peter’s vision challenges dietary tradition; Scripture and Spirit confirm that Gentiles share the gospel promise. • Acts 15 – The Jerusalem Council evaluates missionary reports, weighs Scripture, and discerns God’s grace apart from circumcision. • Matthew 12:3-8 – David eating the consecrated bread and Jesus’ teaching demonstrate mercy as the heartbeat of the Law. Practical Steps When Traditions Are Shaken • Pause and search the Scriptures relevant to the issue. • Pray for teachable humility, asking the Spirit to expose blind spots. • Observe the lasting fruit rather than immediate excitement. • Discuss with seasoned, Bible-anchored believers; listen more than defend. • Guard the core gospel: justification by faith in Christ alone (Galatians 1:8-9). Living Out Discernment with Confidence • Treasuring the Bible as fully true grounds every evaluation. • Recognizing Jesus as Lord and the Spirit as Guide keeps focus clear. • Holding traditions with open hands—while clinging to Scripture with both hands—allows believers to welcome God’s surprising, yet always holy, work. |
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