Have you ever found yourself swept up in the currents of fervent teachings or widely accepted traditions, sometimes with the Spirit’s presence felt strongly, yet a lingering question echoes within—how do we discern what is genuinely of God?
In the tapestry of faith, the apostle Paul provides a guiding light, emphasizing not only the acceptance of the Spirit but the imperative to scrutinize every utterance against the unwavering anchor of scripture.
1 Thessalonians 5:19-22: A Blueprint for Discernment
“Do not quench the Spirit; do not despise prophetic utterances. But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil.”
In these words, Paul extends a timeless principle—have you ever pondered the delicate balance between embracing the Spirit’s power and the responsibility to assess every teaching or prophecy against God’s unchanging Word? In a similar manner, we sometimes face tension between what is commonly accepted in culture and what God’s word actually says.
The Power of Discernment: A Gift and a Necessity
In a world echoing with diverse teachings, Paul’s wisdom resonates. Have you ever felt the weight of discernment upon your shoulders, acknowledging that not every spiritual manifestation aligns seamlessly with God’s truth? Discernment is both a gift and a necessity—an indispensable tool in navigating the intricate landscapes of faith.
Modern Echoes of Ancient Struggles: Testing Tradition Against Truth
Paul’s exhortation transcends time. Just as in the early days, erroneous teachings abound today. Have you ever considered the implications of testing deeply ingrained traditions against the unyielding standards of scripture? Let’s journey together into the realm of one such tradition—the observance of Sabbath on Sunday, the 1st day of the week.
Sabbath and Cultural Shifts: A Call to Investigate
Have you ever questioned the basis for observing the Sabbath on Sunday instead of the seventh day, as commanded by Yahweh and exemplified by Yeshua?
The cultural shift towards Sunday Sabbath lacks a clear biblical foundation. A careful examination of the disciples’ practices, pre and post Yeshua’s resurrection, reveals their adherence to the seventh-day Sabbath.
Traditions Versus Truth: Unmasking Cultural Holidays
Have you ever delved into the origins of widely accepted Christian holidays like Christmas and Easter?
The historical roots often intertwine with pagan practices, challenging believers to scrutinize traditions inherited from generations past. The absence of biblical endorsement for these celebrations invites us to reevaluate their place in our faith.
Testing Cultural Assumptions: Wise Men, Nativity Scenes, and Biblical Accuracy
Have you ever wondered about the accuracy of cultural assumptions surrounding biblical events, such as the number of wise men or the setting of Yeshua’s birth?
Our cultural traditions do not even reinforce learning of accurate biblical history. If I were to ask most people “How many wise men visited Jesus?”, most would say “three”. Fact is that we don’t know. The Bible does not say. It only says they brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh and we assume and teach three. It could be two or it could be 5. One person can bring a gift of two items or two people can both bring the same item.
Similarly, nativity scenes almost always show the wise men at the stable where Yeshua was born. If you read the text, you will see this is not at all accurate. The star appeared when Yeshua was born. That is what triggered the wise men to plan and begin their journey. By the time they arrived, Yeshua was in a house, not a stable. We will also read later that Herod, understanding that Yeshua was born well ahead of the arrival of the Magi, ordered children up to two years old to be killed, not only newborns. (Matthew 2:1-12)
The simple point is just to encourage us to really test cultural holidays and teachings that are mixed with assumptions and wrong information. Let us test all teaching we receive and all that is presented when people talk about the Bible. Let us seek the answers and truth in the Bible itself, rather than substitutes.
My purpose here is to encourage those seeking God to do so personally to understand what He instructs and not just accept whatever may be said about Him. It is not just about holiday traditions… that is one simple example.
Always test what others will teach by studying and praying yourself. This applies to what I teach also, of course.
Embracing Truth Amidst Tradition: A Call to Action
In the tapestry of faith, threads of tradition and truth often entwine. Have you ever felt the tension between embracing cherished traditions and standing firm on scriptural truths? The call to discernment beckons us to unravel these threads, choosing the purity of biblical truth over the comfort of familiar customs.
A Prayer for Discernment and Truth
Let us bow in prayer together:
Heavenly Father, grant us discerning hearts and minds. In a world teeming with teachings and traditions, guide us to hold fast to what is good, to abstain from every form of evil. Illuminate the path of truth amid the complexities of cultural assumptions. May we, as your children, stand firm on the unwavering foundation of your Word. In the name of Yeshua, we pray. Amen.
Conclusion: A Call to Discernment in a Complex World
As we navigate the intricate tapestry of faith, Paul’s wisdom becomes a beacon. Have you ever sensed the urgency of discernment, especially in a world where spiritual fervor and cultural traditions intersect? Let us heed the apostle’s counsel—to test everything, holding fast to the goodness found in God’s eternal truth. In this commitment, we discover not only discernment but a pathway to a faith anchored in the unchanging Word of God.
May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.
John Golda
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