The Bible, the Spirit of Prophecy, and the Church

Chapter 9—The Tests and the Purpose of the Spirit of Prophecy

“Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:19-21. BSPC 127.1

Throughout the ages the church of God has been beset by impostors. Especially in times of revival the tendency has been to fanaticism; in times of lethargy false doctrines and speculative theories have found a fruitful soil. The history of the church throughout the centuries has been one of constant warfare with hostile interests, both within and without the church. When God has worked mightily in the hearts of men, so many times false prophets have arisen, and sad to say, in many instances, have led away many from the truth of God. BSPC 127.2

At various times God warned His church against those who presumed thus to speak in His name. The leadership of the church in Old Testament days had to face this problem. Through Jeremiah the Lord said: BSPC 127.3

“Thus says the Lord of hosts, Hearken not unto the words of the prophets that prophesy unto you: they make you vain: they speak a vision of their own heart, and not out of the mouth of the Lord.” “I have not sent these prophets, yet they ran: I have not spoken to them, yet they prophesied.” Jeremiah 23:16, 21. BSPC 127.4

It was the same in the days of the early church. The Savior warned against these false emissaries. BSPC 127.5

“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.” Matthew 7:15. BSPC 127.6

“And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.” Matthew 24:11. BSPC 127.7

The apostle Peter mentioned them as coming within the field of his ministry. “But there were false prophets also among the people.” 2 Peter 2:1. BSPC 128.1

Notice also the warning of the apostle John: BSPC 128.2

“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1. BSPC 128.3

These warnings, however, are significant, not only because they put the church on the alert against prophets whom God had not sent, but because their mention indicates the fact that God had true prophets. Were this not so, God need not have warned against “false prophets”; all He needed to do was to warn against “prophets.” But the very mention of “false” prophets presumes that there would be “true” prophets. BSPC 128.4

It is in view of this development in the church that the counsel at the beginning of this chapter was necessary. It is vital that we try the spirits and prove all things, at the same time seeking God for spiritual discernment to tell the true from the false. Then as the Lord leads us into truth, we can rejoice in the ministry that spiritual gifts bring to our hearts. BSPC 128.5