Test the Spirits to See Whether They are From God

'Testing the spirits' sounds odd to our ears. It is not a concept we hear often, and I have to admit, it made me uncomfortable. But when read in the original Greek, it appears that 'spirits' here (small 's') is referring to teachers or waves of teaching. John is warning the believers of false doctrine and the need for discernment. Check out Spurgeon's definition:

“Discernment is not knowing the difference between right and wrong. It is knowing the difference between right and almost right.” — Charles Spurgeon.

Discernment and wisdom develop as we mature in Christ. Scripture study is so important and along with prayer, should be the basis for any judgment we make. In Acts 17, Paul is preaching the word to Berean Jews. The Berean Jews didn’t automatically believe everything Paul had said.

It states, “Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.” (Acts 17:11 NIV).

James 1:5a  "If any of you need wisdom, you should ask God, and it will be given to you." 

Ask God for wisdom, research the Bible - read varying views - pray continually for discernment and may you "Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Glory be to Him, now and forever! Amen."

Have a blessed day!

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