How can we "test all things" in our daily Christian walk? Opening the Word: 1 Thessalonians 5:21 “but test all things. Hold fast to what is good.” – Why Testing Matters • God commands it; obedience is not optional. • Truth protects the church from deception (Ephesians 4:14). • Discernment keeps personal faith pure (Philippians 1:9-10). Ground Rules for Testing • Scripture is the measuring line (Isaiah 8:20). • The Holy Spirit illuminates truth (John 16:13). • A humble heart is essential (James 1:21). Practical Ways to Test All Things • Compare every teaching, book, sermon, or podcast with clear Biblical statements. • Read passages in context—paragraph, chapter, book, whole-Bible storyline. • Note repeated themes: if an idea clashes with multiple texts, reject it. • Keep a running list of verses that address current questions for quick reference. • Invite mature believers to review your conclusions (Proverbs 11:14). • Pray for wisdom before, during, and after evaluation (James 1:5). • Look at fruit: does this idea or practice produce righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit? (Matthew 7:16; Romans 14:17). Scriptural Cross-Checks • Acts 17:11 – the Bereans “examined the Scriptures daily”. • 1 John 4:1 – “test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” • Hebrews 4:12 – the Word “judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Areas That Need Regular Testing – Spiritual messages: prophecies, dreams, “words.” – Cultural voices: news, entertainment, social media trends. – Personal decisions: jobs, relationships, purchases. – Church life: music lyrics, study materials, ministry strategies. Recognizing the Good and Holding Fast • When Scripture confirms a truth, embrace it without hesitation. • Memorize key verses tied to that truth for quick recall (Psalm 119:11). • Put the verified teaching into action immediately (James 1:22). Rejecting Every Form of Evil 1 Thessalonians 5:22 follows the command to test: “Abstain from every form of evil.” Discerning believers eliminate whatever contradicts God’s character—even if popular or personally appealing. Living a Discerning Life • Make daily Bible intake non-negotiable. • Keep short accounts with God; unconfessed sin dulls discernment. • Cultivate gratitude; a thankful heart is less prone to deception. • Remember that testing all things is lifelong—finish well by staying vigilant (2 Timothy 4:7). |
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