Between Truth & Deception | 1 John 4:1-6
The Spiritual Atmosphere: Confusion Between Truth and Deception
We live in an age where opinions multiply, emotions dominate, and clarity seems lost. But this confusion isn’t just cultural; it’s deeply spiritual. Many voices speak in the name of God, but not all are from Him—some are persuasive, others emotional, yet only those that exalt Christ are true. The danger, as Avel Rivera emphasizes, isn’t only external but also resides in what we allow into our hearts.
The Evidence of Belonging to God
The apostle John teaches that true faith is not about what looks spectacular or impressive; it is about the truth one confesses about Christ. Avel Rivera summarizes the passage’s main idea: belonging to God is evidenced by a life that discerns truth and depends on the Holy Spirit to overcome deception.
Two Core Principles from 1 John 4
Discern the Truth (Verses 1-3)
Not everything spiritual comes from God. The true test of any spiritual message is what it says about Christ. If Jesus isn’t at the center, that message isn’t from God. Even mature believers can be deceived if they neglect deep familiarity with the Gospel—knowing it well helps expose any counterfeit instantly. As an example, Avel Rivera references a recent viral claim by a pastor about the date of Jesus’s return, which directly contradicts Christ’s words in Matthew 24:36: “But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.” False spiritual messages don’t withstand the scrutiny of Christ’s teachings.Depend on the Spirit (Verses 4-6)
Victory over deception comes not from ourselves but from the Spirit who lives within us. Avel Rivera points out that John’s assertion “greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world” isn’t about personal power over any problem—it specifically refers to spiritual discernment and loyalty to Christ. Remaining in truth isn’t accomplished through human strength; it’s only by the Holy Spirit.
Discernment Is the Rock, Not Emotional Waves
Strong emotions may feel spiritual, but they’re like a fog—when it clears, only truth remains. Real security is found in Christ alone. A church without discernment is likened to a ship without a compass; it may move but has no direction. The Holy Spirit keeps believers grounded in truth and allows them to persevere even when deception is widespread.
The True Test: What Does the Message Say About Jesus?
John Stott, as quoted by Avel Rivera, notes that the true test of the Spirit’s work isn’t emotional ecstasy, but clear theology: “What does this message say about Jesus?” Every teaching, every action, and every church doctrine must lead to Christ—His person, His work, and His truth.
Recognizing the Real Jesus in a World of Imitations
Multiple voices claim to speak for or about Christ, but only those who truly know Him can identify His genuine voice. The world offers counterfeit versions of Jesus who simply wants you to feel good or prosper, but the real Jesus came to save, correct, and rule our lives. If you realize you don’t know this Jesus, Avel Rivera urges you to turn to Him—He is the truth in person.
Living Firmly Between Truth and Deception
True belonging to Christ is shown by discerning truth and relying on the Holy Spirit. In a world full of spiritual imitations and confusion, the answer is simple: abide in Christ, the incarnate truth, and let the Spirit guide you. Through this, believers can stand firm, neither swayed by deception nor reliant on fleeting emotions.
Final Prayer:
The message closes with a prayer for discernment, humility, and compassion—asking God to help His church abide in truth and proclaim Christ authentically.
Key Takeaways for SEO & Readers:
Learn how to discern true spiritual messages using 1 John 4:1-6.
Understand the dangers of spiritual deception in today’s culture.
Discover why dependence on the Holy Spirit is crucial for overcoming error.
Recognize the importance of centering all theology and teaching on the person and work of Jesus Christ.
If you’ve found yourself questioning what is true or yearning for spiritual clarity, 1 John 4:1-6 offers timeless wisdom for believers facing the challenge of living between truth and deception.