Test The Spirits by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world (1 John 4:1 NIV).

Some people have asked how they can distinguish between false prophets and true prophets or ministers of God. Well, it’s very easy to know a true minister of God. First, a true prophet or minister of God draws people to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ and to the Word, not to himself or to some other gods.

Secondly, he walks in love. 1 John 4:8 says, “He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” Walking in the love of Christ is very important. In addition, there has to be a consistency of the Word of God in his mouth. A true man of God doesn’t falter on the Word of God. He sticks to the Word, consistently maintaining and upholding the integrity of the Word. He proves the Word, first in his own life.

Another distinctive factor of a true minister is that the things he says come to pass. Now, that’s a little tricky, because sometimes, you could have a true prophet, pastor or evangelist make a mistake and say the wrong thing. Such a mistake could arise from his over enthusiasm or expectations of those around him or even because he’s not paying attention to the Holy Spirit. This, however, doesn’t make him a false prophet.

That’s why it’s important for you to know the Word for yourself. Part of the ministry of the Spirit in your life is to teach you the Word. Rely on Him and you’ll never be deceived. “I have written these things to you because you need to be aware of those who want to lead you astray. But you have received the Holy Spirit, and he lives within you, so you don’t need anyone to teach you what is true. For the Spirit teaches you all things, and what he teaches is true—it is not a lie. So continue in what he has taught you, and continue to live in Christ” (1 John 2:26-27 NLT).

PRAYER
Dear Father, your Word is a light to my path and a lamp to my feet. My steps in life are directed and ordered by you, through the Word and your Spirit. I’m positioned in the right place and at the right time for your purpose, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Romans 6:1-14
Psalms 56-59

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Luke 12:22-34
Judges

7 FURTHER STUDY:
Matthew 7:15-16
2 Corinthians 11:13-15