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THEME: I Am Fifth
Series: Branded!
TITLE: Testing! Testing!
Scripture: I John 4: 1-6
I. THE CALL FOR DISCERNMENT
“The Spirit has spoken expressly in the latter times some should depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of demons; speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their conscience seared a hot iron.” (A.W.Tozer)
“For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions.” 2 Tim.4:3
(Every follower) of Christ has the responsibility to test the spirits.
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces in the heavenly places.” Eph.6:12
Psalm 119:11: “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.”
II. THE GUIDELINES FOR DISCERNMENT
There are three tests John sets forth for determining the truthfulness of a teaching:
1. Theological: The confession of the (divine Lord). [2-3]
A rampant teaching in John’s day was known as (dualism).
2. Behavioral: they possess the (divine life). [4-5]
3. Professional: they profess the (divine law). [6]
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Tim.3:16-17 (NKJV)
NEXT WEEK: Series: Branded! (I John)
Sermon: Choosing to Love- I John 4: 7-21
