Do You Listen?

"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

Do we understand what it means to "try the spirits" We all know it requires us to compare what is taught with the Scriptures. Do you also understand that it requires us to listen to what is taught with an open mind? When one is put on trial for a crime the jury must not only listen to the prosecution, but must also give equal attention to the defense presented by the one on trial. Without this equal time to present his case, the accused could not have a fair trial. The same is true when we "try the spirits." We cannot determine right or wrong unless we first give attention to what is taught. While teachers of false doctrine are often easily recognized by the diligent Bible student, in all fairness we must listen to what they say before we condemn them. Unless, of course, we have already heard and studied the particular doctrine they are presenting. We often hear from preachers and teachers "If you show me where I am wrong, I will change." This sounds good and makes us feel as if we are open to teaching. Unfortunately too often we have the same problem many fathers see in their young sons. If you will think back to your teen years you may remember your Dad telling you to "Listen to what I am saying instead of trying to come up with your next answer." If not those words they were probably very similar in thought. We have a tendency to use our minds to formulate our next statement while another is talking instead of listening attentively to what is said. This is not being open to correction of our own error, nor does it "try the spirits" in fairness.

A similar situation arises when we study together as Christians, especially in studies of such books as Revelation, Romans, and books of prophecy. Often when we are presented with the viewpoint of another we close our ears rather than hear the different thoughts. We must first listen to what is being said before we can honestly say it does not agree with Scripture. Many times arguments are found to simply be over how a statement is worded. Sometimes a disagreement leads to hurt feelings and even sin between brethren. Often when this happens those observing the situation recognize that both parties are arguing the same point, but approaching from different perspectives. If all involved would have put forth the effort needed to listen to what was being said there would have been no disagreement.

When talking with someone about the Scriptures do you listen to what they have to say? Remember John's instruction to "try the spirits" includes giving them a fair hearing. Without it we cannot know what is wrong with their teaching so that we might help them correct it. Be diligent and attentive in study. - Dan Henderson

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