In our last visit we considered Paul’s challenge in 1st Thessalonians 5:20 to not treat prophecies with contempt. Having given that challenge he immediately follows it with another in verse 21, “Test everything.”
The reason for this is because there are false prophets who can lead genuine seekers astray. He described in chapter 2 some of the things it would be wise to check out when receiving teaching from someone who claims to be a prophet from God.
What is their motive for doing what they do? Do they seem to try pleasing men, or is it obvious they are out to please God? Does it seem they are hiding something? Could it be greed? Are they seeking the praise of men?
In addition to their character and methods, it is important to check out their message. You do this by following the example of the Bereans. In Acts 17:10-11 it says, “The brothers sent Paul and Silas away to Berea. On arriving there, they went to the Jewish synagogue. Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.”
If you are not as confident that you know what the truth is then go to someone who is mature and knowledgeable about the Bible and ask them for help. Paul told Timothy in his second letter to him, 2:15, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”
It’s wise to test everything in the light of what God’s Word says.
