Articles
Discernment
Practically speaking, discernment is the ability to distinguish between things which appear similar. Biblically, it is the process of making careful distinctions in our identification of truth and error, right and wrong.
Exercising spiritual discernment is the key to living an uncompromised life. People often do not see issues clearly and are easily misled because they do not think biblically. It is then that false teaching leads them to an unbiblical mindset -- a certain recipe for compromise, which results in unfruitful and disobedient living.
Discernment is the responsibility of every Christian as we are to “Test all things; hold fast to what is good” (1 Thess. 5:21). 2 Corinthians 11:14-15 informs us that Satan and his servants “disguise themselves as servants of righteousness”. And 1 John 4:1 tell us to “not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
It is imperative that Bible believers are able to discern between God’s truth and false prophets or teachers who claim to speak God’s words. Very providentially, God has sufficiently equipped us to properly discern; we are not on our own to make these judgements. 2 Peter 1:3 tell us that God has “given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue.”
You see, it is through the true “knowledge of Him" that we have been given everything we need to live a true Christian life. Knowledge of God and His Son will protect and guard us from being spiritually deceived as we will be able to readily identify and dismiss teachings which stray from truth. And how do we gain true knowledge of God? It comes only through study of the pages of His Word, the Bible!
The Mountain View church studies the word of God closely to ensure what we do and what is being taught is consistent with God’s desire for His people. We invite you to please join us in our study.
KMG
