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TO CHEW ON: “Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you are disqualified.” 2 Corinthians 13:5
Paul told the Christians in Corinth to test themselves in the context of them wanting proof that Christ spoke through him (2 Corinthians 13:3). The Message phrases it clearly:
“You who have been demanding proof that Christ speaks through me will get more than you bargained for. You’ll get the full force of Christ, don’t think you won’t … Test yourselves to make sure you are solid in the faith. Don’t drift along taking everything for granted. Give yourselves regular checkups… Test it out” - 2 Corinthians 13 MSG.
How would they, how would we “test ourselves… test it out”?
The Reformation Study Bible* suggests this list. It’s a good start. We might ask ourselves:
- Have we put our trust in Christ for salvation (Hebrews 3:6)?
- Are we obedient to God (Matthew 7:21)?
- Are we growing in holiness (Hebrews 12:14; 1 John 3:3)?
- Does our life display the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22,23)?
- Do we have love for other Christians (1 John 3:14)?
- Do we have the testimony of the indwelling Holy Spirit (Romans 8:15,16)?
What a great set of questions to ask ourselves when we don’t “feel” like a Christian. It might also be good for someone struggling with assurance.
PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You that our faith is not a vague “I hope so” but a change of direction that impacts all of life and is experienced as you alter and transform me in many ways. Amen.
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Reformation Study Bible accessed through www.biblegateway.com
Unless otherwise noted all Scripture quotations are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Scripture quotations marked MSG are taken from The Message. Copyright © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002. Used by permission of NavPress Publishing Group.
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