1 John 4:1

Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Summary

Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

Believe not

Try

General references

1 Corinthians 14:32

Bible References

Believe not

If a prophet or an interpreter of dreams appears among you and gives you a sign or a wonder (portent) (omen) (forecast of the future),

The simple believes every word, but the prudent man gives thought to his steps.

Prophets prophesy falsehoods. Priests rule under the prophets' directions, and my people love this. But what will you do when the end comes?'

This is what Jehovah of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: 'Do not let the prophets or the mediums among you trick you. Do not even listen to your own dreams.

Watch out for the false prophets. They are disguised as sheep. But in their hearts they are vicious wolves.

Jesus answered: Be careful that no man misleads you.

They do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the unaware.

There arose false prophets among the people. There will be false teachers among you! They will privately bring in destructive heresies (contrary doctrines), denying even the Master who bought them. They bring swift destruction on themselves.

Try

Why do you not judge what is right?

The Bereans were nobler than those in Thessalonica because they received the word with all readiness of mind and examined the Scriptures daily to see if what Paul told them was true.

Your obedience has come to our attention abroad. I am glad therefore on your behalf. Yet I would have you wise to that which is good and simple concerning evil.

Let two or three prophets speak and let the others listen.

Prove all things; hold fast to what is good.

I know your works, and your labor, and your patience. I also know how you cannot tolerate those who are evil. You tested those who say they are apostles. They are not apostles. You found them to be liars.

General references

You may wonder: How shall we recognize that Jehovah did not speak this message?

Stop listening to instruction (discipline) (correction), my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.

Many false prophets will arise and lead many astray.

He that is of God hears the words of God. That is why you do not listen. You are not from God!

Let the prophets control the spirits (minds) (mental disposition) of the prophets.