Our text is from 1 John 4:1-6. This is the conclusion of the second round of "tests" offered by the Beloved Disciple in the letter. He is encouraging brethren to test the teaching and actions of those who claim to be spiritually minded.
1. Moral test of righteousness - 1 Jn 2:28-3:10
2. Social test of brotherly love - 1 Jn 3:11-18
3. Doctrinal test of belief in Jesus - 1 Jn 4:1-6
Testing the "spirits" is the focus of this section of the letter. These spirits refer to the spiritual experiences and actions of those around us who try to influence us with their doctrine. How do you know what is from God and what is not from God? Join us in our conversations with John about how to avoid the deception of "anti-Christs" in the world around us. God bless!
