Do Not Believe Every Spirit, But Test the Spirits

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“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” – 1 John 4:1 (NKJV)

Introduction
In a world filled with varying voices, messages, and beliefs, it’s essential to discern truth from deception. The Bible warns us not to believe every spirit, for not all that appears spiritual is from God. The enemy is cunning, often disguising falsehood as truth, preying on unsuspecting minds. But God, in His wisdom, has equipped us with the Holy Spirit and His Word, providing the tools to distinguish between good and evil. This call to spiritual discernment is more critical than ever before.

What Does It Mean to Test the Spirits?

When the Bible speaks of "spirits," it's referring to the spiritual influences and teachings we encounter daily. These could come through people, ideologies, or movements that claim to be from God. However, not all of them carry the truth. Some are deceitful, designed to pull us away from God's will and lure us into confusion. To "test the spirits" means to examine the source, message, and fruit of what you are hearing.

1. The Spirit of Truth and the Spirit of Error

There are two spirits at work: the Spirit of Truth and the Spirit of Error.

  • The Spirit of Truth points to Jesus Christ as Lord and aligns with God’s Word.
  • The spirit of error promotes lies, confusion, and distractions from the Gospel.

Jesus said in John 16:13, "When He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth." This is the Holy Spirit’s role – guiding believers into the truth and providing discernment against the spirit of error.

2. The Importance of Discernment

Discernment is a gift from the Holy Spirit, and it is essential in our walk with Christ. The enemy's deception is subtle, and without the ability to discern, we can easily fall prey to teachings that sound good but are actually destructive. In 2 Corinthians 11:14, Paul reminds us that "Satan himself transforms into an angel of light." Therefore, even false prophets may appear righteous, but their message is twisted.

How Do We Discern?

  • Prayer and the Holy Spirit: Seek guidance from the Holy Spirit in prayer. James 1:5 says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God."
  • God’s Word: Compare every teaching, prophecy, or spiritual experience with Scripture. God will never contradict His Word. In Hebrews 4:12, it says, "For the word of God is living and powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword."
  • The Fruit Test: Evaluate the fruits of those delivering the message. Matthew 7:16 teaches, "You will know them by their fruits."

3. Warning Against False Prophets

False prophets are not a new threat. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, we see repeated warnings about those who lead God’s people astray. Jesus Himself said in Matthew 24:24, "For false Christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect." Their message may seem enticing, even performing wonders, but the substance is hollow, leading to destruction.

We must always remain alert, aware that the enemy's goal is to counterfeit the things of God. Yet, Jesus has assured us victory through His Spirit if we stand firm in His truth.

4. How to Test the Spirits Practically

Here are a few practical steps you can take to test the spirits:

  1. Confession of Jesus Christ: Does the message confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh? 1 John 4:2-3 states, "By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God." Any teaching that denies the deity or humanity of Christ is false.
  2. Consistency with Scripture: Does the message align with the teachings of the Bible? God's truth does not change. Any doctrine that contradicts or undermines Scripture is not from God.
  3. Lifestyle of the Messenger: Is the person delivering the message living a godly life? The character of the messenger should reflect the fruits of the Spirit – love, joy, peace, and righteousness.
  4. Spiritual Witness: As a believer, the Holy Spirit within you will bear witness to the truth. Trust that inner conviction.

Conclusion: Walk in Spiritual Wisdom

As believers, we are called to walk in spiritual wisdom and discernment. In these last days, when deception is rampant, we cannot afford to be passive. We must actively test every spirit, ensuring we follow the truth and not be led astray by falsehoods.

Prayer
"Lord, we come to You today, seeking Your wisdom and guidance. Help us to test every spirit and to hold fast to the truth. Guard our hearts from deception, and fill us with discernment through Your Holy Spirit. May we walk in Your truth always. In Jesus’ name, Amen."

Jesus Christ is not just a historical figure; He is a living reality, fully God and fully man. My journey began with the profound realization of the weight of sin and the deep void it created in my soul—a void that no one but Jesus could fill. In my search for peace and redemption, I found that only Jesus Christ could cleanse me from all my sins and offer me a new life. As I embraced the truth of Jesus, I came to understand that His sacrifice for my sins is not just a story, but a reality. Jesus is the only way for humanity to return to its Creator. His righteousness is freely given to all who accept His sacrifice, repent of their sins, and are born again of water and the Spirit. Through my faith, I have witnessed miraculous healings, deliverance from demons, and countless other miracles. Now, I feel compelled to share the Good News I have received—a message of hope and salvation that can help anyone turn away from the path to destruction and find eternal life in Jesus Christ.

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