Christians, Test Your Teachers! A Sermon Study on 1 John 4:1-3

Abstract

In this sermon study, Professor Richard D. Balge explores 1 John 4:1–3 in connection with Article XII of the Formula of Concord, which addresses heresies and sects that rejected the Augsburg Confession. Balge emphasizes the need for Christians to test spiritual claims and teachings, warning against false prophets and the spirit of Antichrist. He highlights the central criterion for discernment: the confession that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh. This confession affirms both the deity and humanity of Christ and the saving purpose of his incarnation. Balge draws connections to historical heresies such as Gnosticism and modern distortions of the gospel, including legalism and charismatic enthusiasm. He also references Luther’s insights on the papacy and sacramentarianism as expressions of antichristian spirit. The study concludes with a sermon outline urging believers to exercise spiritual discernment, grounded in the gospel and empowered by the Holy Spirit. —Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)