This is an episode of "The Docket," a podcast where we explore the intersection of faith, theology, and the real world. Each episode features conversations with guest speakers discussing current issues through the lens of Scripture and the Jewish-Christian tradition.
Episode #16: "Testing the Spirits"
Guest: Robb Brunansky, VP of Editorial at Deseret Digital Media
Air Date: [Air Date TBD]
In 1 John 4:1, the apostle John writes: "Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world."
But what does it actually mean to "test the spirits"? How do we discern between genuine prophecy and false prophecy? How do we recognize the voice of God in a world full of voices claiming authority?
Robb Brunansky joins us to discuss:
- The criteria for testing prophetic voices in Scripture
- How the Hebrew tradition understood prophecy and false prophecy
- The difference between a true prophet and a charismatic personality
- How to evaluate teachings that claim biblical authority
- The responsibility of the community in discerning truth
- What it means to be a prophetic voice in a pluralistic culture
This is a conversation for anyone who has ever wondered: How do I know who to trust? How do I distinguish between genuine spiritual guidance and manipulation? What makes a voice truly prophetic?
Key Passages Discussed:
- 1 John 4:1-6 (Testing the spirits)
- Deuteronomy 18:20-22 (How to identify a false prophet)
- Matthew 7:15-20 (You will know them by their fruits)
- 1 Thessalonians 5:19-22 (Do not quench the Spirit; test all things)
About the Guest:
Robb Brunansky is VP of Editorial at Deseret Digital Media, where he oversees editorial strategy and content development. He brings a deep commitment to truthfulness and a background in journalism to the conversation about how we discern truth in the digital age.
The Docket is a space for thoughtful Christian dialogue on the hard questions. We believe that Scripture is meant to be engaged, questioned, and lived, not merely defended.
