We need the ability to discriminate in spiritual matters. Grace does not cover unrepented sins nor fellowship with those contemptuous of God's laws.

God gives the ability to determine the source of a spiritual manifestation. However, this gift depends on a thorough knowledge and understanding of God's Word.

Scripture warns about end-time deceivers who will seduce church members to ungodly beliefs and ways. We must make righteous judgments to reject what is false.

Because of the culture of deception fostered by Satan and his children, we must develop discernment to tell the difference between truth and falsehood.

Human discernment can be developed and exercised, triggering early warning systems with the reactions of revulsion and confusion when confronted by evil.

Spiritual discernment is a gift from God, enabling us to judge between good and evil, comparing things with God's Word to see if they align with His standards.

God displays emotions, but they are always under control, unlike mankind. Using God's Spirit, we can grow into emotional (not emotionless) spiritual maturity.

The Kingdom parables allude to the process of spiritual maturity, depicting a planted and cultivated seed becoming a sprout, eventually bearing fruit.

We are counseled to seek wisdom (the power of judging rightly) and discernment (the ability to consider the end of a thought pattern or behavior).

In evaluating the dubious fruits of a false minister, we must realize that belief and conduct are inextricably linked and the linkage must be with God's Word.

Corinth had four positive teachers, yet a mysterious fifth teacher was also influencing them and instilling beliefs that were the source of all the bad fruit.

The Kingdom of God is our goal, and our vision of what it means gives us compelling motivation to overcome, grow, and bear fruit in preparation for eternal life.

The prophets and the religious leaders bear the greatest blame for the destruction by providing a quasi-religion and not teaching the Law of God.

Satan uses disinformation, spread through false ministers/prophets, teaching smooth things that destroy. We must test the spirits to ensure a teaching is from God.

While we find much biblical scholarship useful and productive, without God's Spirit, most biblical scholarship is at best a mixture of good and evil.

The apostle Paul inventories spiritual gifts that God has given for the edification of the church, including ministry of the word and practical service.