The Bible instructs believers to 'try the spirits whether they are of God' (1 John 4:1), emphasizing discernment over blind acceptance.
In 1 John 4:1, the Apostle John admonishes Christians not to accept every spirit but to test them to determine if they are from God. This warning is crucial in a world filled with both true and false teachings. The spirit within individuals will produce discernible effects, manifesting either the influence of God’s Spirit or the deception of evil spirits. The testing of spirits goes beyond mere words; it involves an examination of the deeper motivations and truths that drive one's beliefs and actions. A discerning believer will watch the 'spirits' at work in their own hearts and those of others, reflecting on how these influences align with Scripture and the life of Christ.
Commentary