Deception Rarely Announces Itself: Testing the Spirits

Deception in the church rarely appears as something obviously false. More often, it sounds spiritual, borrows biblical language, and appeals to real spiritual longings—while subtly shifting authority away from Scripture.
In this episode of Weekly Watch, part of the Contending for the Word podcast, Dave Jenkins offers a closing reflection on February's series, Testing the Spirits: Exposing Counterfeits and Standing on the Truth. Rather than revisiting previous episodes, this message identifies recurring patterns found in counterfeit movements and false teaching within the church.
In this episode, Dave discusses:
• Why deception is often persuasive rather than blatant.
• Warning signs when experience begins to outrank Scripture.
• How authority subtly shifts from God's Word to individuals.
• Why Scripture repeatedly commands believers to test and discern.
• How God's Word provides clarity, confidence, and peace for Christians today.
Biblical discernment is not about fear or suspicion, it is about faithfulness to God as He has revealed Himself in His Word.
For more episodes of Contending for the Word, visit:
https://servantsofgrace.org/contending-for-the-word-podcast/