What does Scripture mean when it says we’re to “test the spirits?”

1 John 4:1 says, “Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God.” Unfortunately, there are many ‘wolves in sheep’s clothing’ who try to lead Christians away from God’s truth.

So, we need to compare what is being taught with the clear teaching of the Bible. The Bible alone is the Word of God, and not only is it reliable, it alone is inspired and inerrant! Our responsibility is to test whatever is being taught from a Biblical baseline in order to identify what is actually true.

Paul says in 2 Timothy 2:15, “Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.” It should be a labor of love as we make studying God’s word a top priority throughout our entire lifetime. It’s extremely consequential that we’re able to discern truth from error!

Psalm 119:104-106, & verse 11 says, “Your commandments give me understanding; therefore I hate every false way. Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. I have sworn and I will confirm it, that I will keep Your righteous judgments. Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.”

May we go to God’s word daily, and trust His Holy Spirit who lives within us to guide us through ALL of our decisions, in order to glorify Him to the max!