Authentic Faith Discerns Truth*

Am I discerning what someone tells me is a prophecy or a word from the Lord and testing it against Scripture? In this message, Pastor Chris Teien teaches from John 4 and 1 Thessalonians 5 about worshiping in spirit and truth, recognizing what is genuine, and living out authentic faith. We learn how to reject false prophecy, hold fast to what is good, and walk in the power of the Holy Spirit. 

Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/16335660

Key Points:

1. Authentic worship happens in spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24)
2. Authentic faith does not stifle the Holy Spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:19)
3. Authentic faith discerns prophecy and tests what it hears (1 Thessalonians 5:20-21)
4. Authentic faith clings to what is good and genuine (1 John 4:1)

Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:
Pastor Chris shares the story of buying a counterfeit car part that looked authentic but proved worthless, connecting it to the need for genuine faith. He recalls God’s clear direction in his call to ministry and stories of answered prayer that highlight the difference between hollow claims and authentic works of God.

Notable Quotes:

• “It looks like the real deal, but it is not authentic.”
• “People want you to be authentic. The Holy Spirit wants you to be authentic.”
• “Search the Scriptures to test everything and hold on to what is good.”

Reflection and Application:
Am I discerning what someone tells me is a prophecy or a word from the Lord and testing it against Scripture? Where in my life does my faith need to move from imitation to authenticity? Am I measuring the influences in my life by God’s Word so that my walk is Spirit-led and genuine?

Scripture References:
John 4:23-24; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-24; 1 John 4:1; Galatians 5:22-23; Deuteronomy 18:18-22; 2 Peter 1:20-21; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Matthew 24:24; Acts 17:10-12

Keywords: authentic faith, discernment, truth, false prophecy, worship in spirit, Holy Spirit, testing spirits, genuine Christianity, Well Faith Podcast

Special Note: This episode includes an audio clip from Allen Parr, used with permission, encouraging listeners to test every so-called prophetic word against God’s Word to avoid being misled by false prophecy.

18.0218de  Living for God with Authenticity and Discernment

Well Faith shares recent sermons from Pastor Chris Teien and occasional Rockwell Church guest speakers, along with highlighting timeless replay messages from his earlier years (marked with *). These Biblical messages apply timeless truth to everyday life, offering practical guidance, encouragement, and hope for living out WELL Faith: Worshiping, Encouraging, Learning, and Loving. Get more resources ChrisTeien.com and Find sermons by topic, series, and year at WELL.faith Come worship with us Sundays at 10:15 AM at Rockwell.church 93 Midway Drive, Virginia, MN. If this message encouraged you, subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review, and let us know what you think at [e-mail]