I John 4:1 “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”
On the first reading, this verse can sound mystical. What does it mean to try the spirits?
By spirits, we are likely talking about influences. These are thoughts, opinions, or philosophies (and people that teach them) that push us in one direction or the other; toward good or toward evil.
They are ideas and the people that embody ideas that may appear, in some ways, supernatural. Ideas that could even declare themselves to be supernatural.
How do we know if these influences are from God?
By reading, studying, and developing a clear understanding of God’s word, the Bible, and by maintaining an ongoing relationship with God’s son, Jesus.
False prophets are people who claim to tell the truth, but are actually telling half-truths and lies
We must stay close to Christ and remain in His word, knowing it well enough to recognize what is true and what is false.
When people and ideas seek to influence us, we must Biblically test them.
I John 4:1 “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”