Discernment in the Bible refers to the ability to judge well, particularly in spiritual matters. It is a gift from God that enables believers to distinguish between truth and error, right and wrong, and to understand God's will. The Bible emphasizes the importance of discernment for living a life that is pleasing to God.

In the Old Testament, discernment is often associated with wisdom. King Solomon is a prime example, as he famously asked God for a discerning heart to govern the people and to distinguish between right and wrong (1 Kings 3:9). God granted his request, making Solomon renowned for his wisdom and discernment.

The New Testament continues to highlight the necessity of discernment for Christians. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, prays that their love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that they may be able to discern what is best (Philippians 1:9-10). This discernment is crucial for spiritual growth and maturity, enabling believers to approve what is excellent and to be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.

Discernment is also linked to the work of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 2:14, Paul explains that the natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them because they are spiritually discerned. The Holy Spirit aids believers in understanding and applying God's truth to their lives.

Furthermore, discernment is necessary for recognizing false teachings and prophets. Jesus warns in Matthew 7:15-16 to beware of false prophets, who come in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. By their fruit, believers will recognize them, requiring discernment to evaluate their teachings and actions.

Law

The concept of law in the Bible encompasses both the divine commandments given by God and the broader principles of justice and righteousness. The law serves as a guide for moral conduct and a reflection of God's holy character.

In the Old Testament, the law is primarily associated with the Mosaic Law, given to the Israelites at Mount Sinai. This includes the Ten Commandments and various ceremonial, civil, and moral laws. The law was intended to set Israel apart as God's chosen people and to instruct them in righteous living. Deuteronomy 6:1-2 states, "These are the commandments, statutes, and ordinances that the LORD your God has instructed me to teach you to follow in the land that you are about to enter and possess, so that you and your children and grandchildren may fear the LORD your God all the days of your lives by keeping all His statutes and commandments that I give you, and so that your days may be prolonged."

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ fulfills the law, bringing a new understanding of its purpose. In Matthew 5:17 , Jesus declares, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them." Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus embodies the perfect obedience to the law and provides a way for believers to be justified by faith.

The Apostle Paul further explains the relationship between the law and grace. In Romans 3:20 , he writes, "Therefore no one will be justified in His sight by works of the law. For the law merely brings awareness of sin." The law reveals humanity's sinful nature and the need for a Savior. Through faith in Christ, believers are no longer under the law's condemnation but are called to live by the Spirit, which fulfills the righteous requirement of the law (Romans 8:4).

The law also serves as a moral compass for Christians, guiding them in their conduct and relationships. James 1:25 refers to the "perfect law of freedom," encouraging believers to be doers of the word and not hearers only. This reflects the transformative power of God's law when applied through the lens of grace and love.