1 John 4:1-6 – Do Not Believe Every Spirit, but Test The Spirits

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Do Not Believe Every Spirit, but Test The Spirits

In the modern church, where false teachings abound, it is imperative that Believers discern truth from deception. The Bible provides us with guidance on this matter, and one such passage that addresses this is found in 1 John 4:1-6. In this post, we'll delve into this scripture to understand the importance of testing the spirits and staying rooted in God's Word.

Beware of Wolves in Sheep's Clothing

Even before the 1st Century BC church was founded, Jesus warned His followers to be cautious of false prophets, whom He likened to wolves in sheep's clothing. This warning reverberates throughout the New Testament, emphasizing the significance of this message.

In Matthew 7:15, Jesus explicitly states, "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves." This vivid imagery serves as a strong cautionary note.

Neglecting the Warnings

What's even more alarming is how often we encounter individuals who identify as Christians but seem to disregard these warnings. It's as if they've omitted this vital teaching from their study of the Bible. The frequent mentions of false teachers, prophets, and apostles underscore the gravity of the problem we face.

1 Peter 5:8 reminds us to be sober and vigilant, recognizing the presence of an adversary who seeks to devour. Ignoring these warnings can have dire consequences, as we witness the emergence of false churches in the 21st century.

The Role of Biblical Literacy

A significant factor contributing to the rise of false teachings is the biblical illiteracy among many professing Christians. This issue is especially problematic because Jesus Himself is the Word. He instructed us to worship God in Spirit and in truth, which is only possible with a solid foundation in God's Word.

John 4:24 asserts, "God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." 

Reflecting on the churches in Galatians, we see the consequences of disobeying the truth by following false teachings. This validates Peter's instruction to be sober and alert. We are accountable for avoiding the clutches of wolves, and God has provided ample guidance in His Word for this purpose.

Staying Firm on the Rock

Matthew 7:24-25 illustrates the importance of a solid foundation in Christ's teachings: "Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock." Our faith must be firmly rooted in Christ's teachings to withstand the storms of deception.

The Remedy: The Truth and The Light

Jesus offers us a remedy for avoiding deception: the truth. In John 8:12, He declares, "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life." This isn't merely a comforting verse to display on some wall art; it is the key to avoiding ensnarement. Jesus, as the Word, illuminates our path.

Psalm 119:105 NKJV -  Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

Following the Leading of the Holy Spirit

Moreover, God has given us the Holy Spirit, the Helper, who guides us into all truth. When we encounter situations where deception lurks, the Holy Spirit brings relevant scriptures to our minds. John 14:26 assures us of this Helper's role.

John 14:26 NKJV - But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.

Listening to the Shepherd's Voice

In John 10:4-5, Jesus emphasizes that His sheep know His voice and do not listen to strangers. The Holy Spirit helps us discern the voice of the Good Shepherd, leading us away from false teachings. We have the assurance of His guidance and protection.

John 10:4–5 NKJV - And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. 5 Yet they will by no means follow a stranger, but will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.”

Testing Every Spirit

We are instructed to test every spirit and to hold fast to the truth of God's Word. To abide in Jesus means to abide in His Word and follow Him. As Matthew 7:16-20 reminds us, we can discern false teachings by examining their fruit, and this can only be done by comparing their teachings and works to what is prescribed and described in the Word of God.

Hebrews 4:12 NKJV - "For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."

The word of God is the sword of the Spirit which is a part of the armour of God. So when the Word dwells richly in you, you can rightly divide the Word of Truth and discern the Spirit of Truth from the spirit of error. It is as simple as that. 

In conclusion, in a world filled with all kinds of false spiritual influences, let us be vigilant, discerning, and deeply rooted in God's Word, guided by the Holy Spirit, and always listening for the voice of the Good Shepherd.

Bible References:

Bible Gateway passage: Matthew 7:15-20 - New King James Version

Bible Gateway passage: 1 Peter 5:8-9 - New King James Version

Bible Gateway passage: John 14:23 - New King James Version

Bible Gateway passage: 1 John 2:27 - New King James Version

Bible Gateway passage: John 8:12 - New King James Version

Bible Gateway passage: John 14:15-17 - New King James Version

Bible Gateway passage: John 14:26 - New King James Version 

Bible Gateway passage: Ephesians 6:17 - New King James Version

Bible Gateway passage: Hebrews 4:12 - New King James Version

Bible Gateway passage: Colossians 3:16 - New King James Version

Bible Gateway passage: 2 Timothy 2:15 - New King James Version




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