Test All Things
Why We Must Measure Teachings Against Scripture
In matters of faith, nothing is more dangerous to the soul than blindly accepting what someone teaches without confirming it against God’s Word. Our relationship with God and our eternal destiny are far too important to be based on assumptions, traditions, or the words of men. We are each accountable for our own souls, and it only makes sense that we would want to be absolutely sure that what we practice and believe aligns with God’s truth.
Many people, even well-meaning ones, share false doctrines simply because they themselves have been misled. Jesus warned of this very danger when He said, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves” (Matthew 7:15, NKJV). These false teachers often appear genuine, but their message can lead souls astray.
Why Testing Teachings Matters
The Bible repeatedly instructs us to test and examine what we hear:
1 Thessalonians 5:21 – “Test all things; hold fast what is good.”
1 John 4:1 – “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
Paul commended the Bereans for their diligence in verifying his teaching:
“These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11, NKJV).
If the Bereans were commended for testing the words of an apostle, how much more should we test the teachings we hear today?
Our Accountability Before God
We cannot stand before God and blame others for what we chose to believe or practice. Romans 14:12 reminds us: “So then each of us shall give account of himself to God.” This means it is our responsibility to ensure that our faith and actions are built upon the foundation of God’s Word, not man-made doctrines or traditions.
Jesus also warned, “And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men” (Matthew 15:9, NKJV). Even sincere worship is empty if it is built on false teaching.
The Courage to Admit Wrong and Follow Truth
It takes humility and courage to admit when we’ve been wrong, especially in matters of faith. Yet Jesus calls us to follow Him fully, even when it means leaving behind long-held traditions or beliefs. He said, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32, NKJV).
When Scripture speaks plainly, we must be willing to change and align ourselves with the truth, even if it means walking a path that is unpopular or misunderstood.
It’s Not Worth the Risk
Do not risk your soul by blindly believing what others say. Make it your priority to read, study, and test all teachings against the Word of God. Trust in the Lord’s promise that His Word is truth (John 17:17) and allow it to guide every step of your faith.