Be sure the spirits are of God
1 John 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.
We are in a world filled with diverse voices, ideologies, and spiritual influences, it is more crucial than ever that we test the spirits. We are called not to blindly accept every teaching, prophecy, or spiritual manifestation, but to discern whether they are truly from God.
The term "spirit" here refers to the various influences, teachings, and messages that claim to be inspired by God. We live in a time where information is abundant, and many voices claim to speak on behalf of God. Yet, not all that glitters is gold. Not every voice is from the Lord.
We must recognize that false prophets and deceptive spirits have been a problem throughout the history of the Church. From the time of the early Christians to today, the enemy has always sought to lead God's people astray. The Bible is complete with warnings about these false teachers who disguise themselves as servants of righteousness but inwardly are wolves.
How, then, do we test the spirits? What are the criteria for discerning whether a teaching or a prophetic word is from God? Apostle John gives us a clear guideline in the verses that follow:
1. Confession of Jesus Christ: In verse 2, John says, "By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God." The central and non-negotiable test is the recognition and confession of Jesus Christ as the Son of God, who came in the flesh. Any teaching or spirit that denies this fundamental truth is not of God.
2. Alignment with Scripture: We must also measure every spirit against the truth of God's Word. The Bible is our ultimate authority, and any teaching or prophecy that contradicts the clear teachings of Scripture must be rejected. God will never contradict Himself, and His Word remains the standard by which all things are judged.
3. Fruit of the Spirit: Jesus said in Matthew 7:16, "You will recognize them by their fruits." The fruits of a true spirit of God include love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). If the spirit behind a teaching or prophecy produces division, hatred, confusion, or strife, it is not from God.
In our spiritual walk, discernment is not just a helpful tool; it is a necessity. Spiritual discernment is the ability to distinguish between truth and error, between what is of God and what is not. Without it, we are like ships without a compass, vulnerable to every wind of doctrine and deceit.
John’s exhortation to test the spirits is a call to be vigilant, to be spiritually awake. It is easy to be swayed by eloquent speakers, persuasive arguments, or miraculous signs. Yet, Jesus warned us that even false prophets could perform signs and wonders. Therefore, our faith must be rooted in the truth of God's Word and the inner witness of the Holy Spirit.
Failing to discern the spirits can lead to devastating consequences. We see this in the lives of individuals and entire congregations that have been led astray by false teachings. False doctrine can corrupt our understanding of God, distort our relationship with Him, and lead us away from the path of righteousness.
The enemy seeks to sow seeds of confusion and doubt, to lead us away from the truth. But God calls us to stand firm, to guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, and to cling to the truth of His Word.
In conclusion, more than before, there will be many false prophets, pastors and apostles who would claim to come from God. Let us not believe every spirit, but diligently test them to see whether they are from God. In doing so, we protect our faith, preserve the purity of the gospel, and ensure that we remain in the truth.
God bless you.
Prayer key :
1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of your word today in Jesus Christ name
2. Lord, grant me the spirit of discernment so I can test every spirit in Jesus Christ name.
3. Lord, expose every false servants claiming to come from you in Jesus Christ name.
4. Thank you Lord for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name. Amen.