Test everything

Paul holds openness and discernment together: do not quench the Spirit, do not despise prophecies, test everything, and hold fast to what is good. Neither blanket rejection nor unquestioning acceptance follows the passage. A teachable church welcomes examination because truth does not need protection from honest testing. Release what fails the test rather than protecting a reputation.

Put the Word into practice

Consider one spiritual message you have received. Identify what agrees with Scripture and what needs further examination.

Search the Scripture

How do the commands about welcoming and testing prophecy belong together?

A prayerful response

Spirit of truth, keep us receptive, discerning, and willing to let go of what is false. Amen.