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Testing the Spirits: Rejecting Unscriptural and How to Respond to Those in Error 1 John 4:1-7 Dr. Grant Hodges John's apostolic doctrine was criticized by the Jews, Gnostics and Cerinthus. How does this compare to criticisms of Scriptural teaching today. I. We Are Called to Choose Truth In The Midst of Competing Errors. verse 1 What does the word "spirit" mean as John uses it? John calls us to do more than rebuke or critique error as some do; he calls us to discern Truth and practice it. Why is John's position more sensible? What happens when all our energy goes into critiques? What is the right alternative? What does James say about truth without practical application? II. Use The Bible As Our Criteria Of Choosing verses 2-3 What other data sources for spiritual life and growth do Christians sometimes use instead of the Bible? What are the results? Why is the deity of Christ so telling as a test of "spirits"? III. Our Criteria Is Safe And Sure? verses 4-6 How does John show his confidence in his readers to discern Truth in verses 4-6? What is the standard of Truth? What are problems associated with determining this? Is John discouraged about that? IV. "He Who is Not From God Does Not Listen To Us." verses 5-6 In what areas are Christians being asked to downgrade their faith to fit society? How are We to Answer? What does it mean to our nation if we reckon that Islam stands equal with Christianity? V. Love Those In Error; Teach Them Scripture verse 7 Why?

Dr. Grant Hodges

The mission of Grace Church is to share the love of Jesus Christ through Worship, Discipleship, and Evangelism.