Open, Yet Careful

Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. –I Thessalonians 5:20, 21

Christians must be open to, yet careful of all teaching. In talking about “prophecies” Paul is referencing teaching and preaching in general, and not specifically foretelling the future. Prophecy in this context refers to the Spirit enlightening certain men to the truths of Scripture. In Paul’s day there were many people who desired to teach. This is not a bad thing; the Bible encourages us to be able to teach, but many would-be Christian teachers have the wrong motives. Some are excited by their faith, but have not spent enough time in the Word to be able to properly expound it. Others may simply be attracted by the authority vested in a teacher and use their position to bring honor to themselves.

This being said, a premium should be placed on competent, God-honoring teachers. Yet at the same time the Spirit can use any man to teach us. The simple man who has been attentive to the Word can be used by the Spirit to speak something profound. Paul wants us to be aware of this, and not to despise those things that the Spirit may teach through those who are not normally teachers. Indeed, anyone who the Spirit is working in, and who makes frequent use of the Word, may well be used to speak truth in our daily lives.

Just as in Paul’s day, we are surrounded by many teachers. The Holy Spirit may well use those teachers to reveal truth to us. At the same time, we are told to “test everything.” Insight can come from unexpected people, but just because someone comes in the name of Jesus, does not mean he comes bearing his Word. As Christians we must guard ourselves on both sides – we have to be open to the Spirit’s moving and yet at the same time we have to test those moving by the Word to see if they are genuine. Such is the nature of discerning good. It has to be worked at to be found, but when it is its benefit is worth the labor.