In the 23rd chapter of Matthew, Jesus mentioned a lot the scribes and Pharisees - who seemed to be aligned with Heaven, but acted contrary to the Bible. They appeared to be pious, but lacked this quality and the fear of God. Their purposes and practices were the exact opposite of the Lord's will, therefore, they were heading for perdition (Luke 6.46).

           The Savior told the people the truth about these religious people: they pretended to be something, but acted differently. Nothing they said corresponded with Christ's testimony of the Word, because they didn't have the heavenly revelation. This also happens with those who are in sin, but think that the Most High will never condemn them. Their hypocrisy will sentence them. Watch out!

           The examining that Jesus refers to is done according to the Scriptures. Although many are prudent in their words, they don't always manage to act in such a way. When a person sins, their countenance betrays them. Another way of knowing if they are in communion with Heaven is by analyzing their conversation, for the Word says: For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God does not give the Spirit by measure (John 3:34)

           Once you have observed the Holy Book, the Spirit of God will open your eyes to what He has made you understand, and not to what your mind has discovered. From then on, you can put the revelation into practice. Remember: anyone who tries to pretend to be a Christian and claims to be heaven-sent is nothing more than an agent of the devil. Anyone who doesn't speak according to the Word is far from the divine presence. Be wise by always following the biblical statements!

            The right thing to do is to always obey the Scriptures, even if someone is acting outside the biblical context. What you understand in the Word has not been revealed to you by that person, but by the Holy Spirit. Jesus spoke of the Helper, guaranteeing that He would teach us what was spoken in heaven: But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you (John 14.26).

           We need to practice the Lord's instructions, because their only Source is the Word. However, we act wrongly when we fail to put God's will into action after understanding it. We are responsible for following the Most High’s guidelines, not those of some self-proclaimed prophet. Examine every word that is spoken to you, but only do what God commands. The Lord knows how to speak to us and will confirm our determinations!

           We must never imitate the actions of those who do not fear God, because, being ungodly, they will not be used by the heavenly Father. The reprobate in their works do not deserve the slightest attention. When in doubt about any matter, pray about it and wait for the Scriptures to show you the proper instruction. The Lord will always help those who believe!

           In Christ, with love,

           R. R. Soares