False Prophets and Prophecies – How to Identify Them
The Bible tells us to discern the origin of prophecies. “Do not quench the Spirit. Do not treat prophecies with contempt but test them all; hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil” (1 Thessalonians 5:19-21 NIV). According to the scriptures, we should ‘test all prophets and prophecies.’ The Bible gives us all the information we need to identify false prophets and prophecies.
1. Real prophecy strengthens the church.
“Let love be your highest goal! But you should also desire the special abilities the Spirit gives—especially the ability to prophesy. For if you have the ability to speak in tongues, you will be talking only to God, since people won’t be able to understand you. You will be speaking by the power of the Spirit, but it will all be mysterious. But one who prophesies strengthens others, encourages them, and comforts them. A person who speaks in tongues is strengthened personally, but one who speaks a word of prophecy strengthens the entire church.” (1 Corinthians 14:1-4 NLT).