Discerning the spirits - 1 John 4:1-6

As John continues, he again returns to the theme of the incarnation of Jesus. This time, the doctrinal theme functions as a test for discerning between two individuals, both claiming to be controlled and empowered by the Holy Spirit. This test comes down to the character and actions of an individual, do they align with the truth of the Holy Spirit at work in an individuals life. John is calling these believers to discern by evaluating what Scripture and the Holy Spirit say in comparison with the message of the individuals claiming to be empowered by the Holy Spirit. This is so important for us to understand so that we can more effectively discern even among those who are part of our churches. At times, those who claim knowledge or authority in the church do so wrongly and by doing so actually reveal they are not controlled by the Holy Spirit, but instead are controlled by their own fleshly, worldly desires and seeking to advance their own agenda. As believers, we must be discerning, testing genuine followers from imposters by their message and by their lives. 1 John has often been described as a letter written to offer assurance to believers. Believers can know that they have indeed been delivered from their sins and stand justified before God, only through Jesus, and a right understanding and belief about him and in him alone. John also makes statements about not living in darkness or continuing in the practice of sin 1 John 1:6-8; 3:9-10; 5:18. These statements can seem confusing and this is one of the elements of the epistles of John that can be hard to fully understand. How can we be sure of our salvation, of our relationship with Jesus, if the measure is not sinning anymore? We can confidently know that we are believers, resting in the finished work of Jesus. John’s epistles are unique, in that, John is clearly addressing antagonists against Jesus, the gospel and these believers (the audience may be the churches of Asia Minor that he addresses in Revelation). No matter the audience, there is clearly antagonism from outside the church, from some who have left the church, but are still causing chaos and confusion for those remaining in the church. Remember, belief in Jesus alone saves; the evidence of salvation flows from this belief.