Discernment of good and evil refers to the ability to distinguish right from wrong, which is often emphasized in biblical teachings as a gift from God. It is illustrated in Hebrews 5:14, where mature believers are described as having their senses trained to discern good and evil through practice.
Scripture
12 For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food.
13 for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child.
14 But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.
Discernment of Good and Evil in the Bible
The discernment of good and evil in the Bible serves as a foundational concept for moral and ethical decision-making, underscoring the necessity for spiritual maturity and insight into God’s principles. In Hebrews 5:14, the notion of having one’s senses trained to distinguish good from evil highlights the importance of experience and practice in spiritual growth. This idea is echoed in Proverbs 2:5-6, which states, “Then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Here, discernment is inherently tied to a relationship with God, emphasizing that true wisdom and understanding come from a deep connection with divine teachings.
Moreover, the discernment of good and evil is pivotal in the context of societal conduct and personal morality as seen in Isaiah 5:20, which warns, “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who put darkness for light, and light for darkness.” This verse illustrates the dangers of misjudging the nature of good and evil, suggesting that without discernment, society can easily fall into moral confusion. Additionally, James 1:5 encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, promising that He gives generously to all who ask. Hence, discernment is not merely an intellectual exercise but a divine gift that allows individuals to navigate complexities of moral choices in alignment with God’s will, fostering a community that upholds His standards of righteousness.
The phrase “discernment of good and evil” in Greek can be translated as “διάκρισις καλού καὶ κακού” (diakrisis kalou kai kakou). The term “διάκρισις” (diakrisis) is derived from the root verb “διακρίνω” (diakrino), which means “to separate” or “to distinguish.” The prefix “διά” (dia) implies a thorough or complete separation, while “κρίνω” (krino) means “to judge” or “to decide.” Thus, “diakrisis” conveys the idea of making a careful judgment or distinction between two opposing concepts, in this case, good and evil.
Scholars such as William L. Lane in his work on the New Testament highlight the importance of discernment in moral and ethical decision-making, emphasizing that it involves not just intellectual understanding but also a spiritual sensitivity to the nuances of right and wrong. Similarly, Richard Bauckham has noted that discernment is a critical aspect of Christian maturity, enabling believers to navigate complex moral landscapes. The concept of discernment is not merely an intellectual exercise; it is deeply rooted in the ethical and spiritual dimensions of life, reflecting a believer’s relationship with God and their understanding of His will.
The Foundation of Moral Understanding
Discernment of good and evil serves as a fundamental aspect of moral understanding within the biblical context. It emphasizes the importance of developing a keen sense of right and wrong, which is essential for making ethical decisions in life. This discernment is not merely an intellectual exercise but a spiritual practice that involves seeking wisdom and guidance from God. It encourages individuals to cultivate a heart aligned with divine principles, enabling them to navigate complex moral landscapes with clarity and integrity.
The Role of Spiritual Growth
In the biblical narrative, discernment is closely linked to spiritual growth and maturity. As individuals deepen their relationship with God, they become more attuned to His will and the moral truths revealed in scripture. This growth fosters an ability to distinguish between good and evil, not just in external actions but also in thoughts and intentions. The process of discernment is portrayed as a journey, where believers are called to continually seek understanding and refine their moral compass through prayer, study, and community engagement.
The Impact on Community and Society
Discernment of good and evil extends beyond personal morality; it has significant implications for community and society. When individuals exercise discernment, they contribute to the establishment of just and righteous communities. The collective ability to discern right from wrong can lead to social transformation, as it encourages accountability, compassion, and ethical behavior among members. In this way, discernment acts as a catalyst for positive change, fostering environments where truth and justice prevail, ultimately reflecting the character of God in the world.
How to Cultivate Moral Wisdom in Christian Living
Cultivating moral wisdom in Christian living is a journey that requires intentionality and a heart open to God’s guidance. Start by immersing yourself in Scripture, allowing the teachings of Jesus and the wisdom of Proverbs to shape your understanding of right and wrong. Prayer is essential; it’s in those quiet moments of seeking God’s will that we often find clarity and direction. Surround yourself with a community of believers who challenge and inspire you, as iron sharpens iron. Reflect on your daily choices and ask yourself how they align with Christ’s teachings—this self-examination can lead to profound growth. Finally, practice compassion and empathy in your interactions, remembering that moral wisdom is not just about knowing what is right, but also about living it out in love and service to others. As you take these steps, you’ll find that moral wisdom becomes a natural part of your Christian walk, guiding you to make choices that honor God and reflect His love in the world.
Bible References to Discernment of Good and Evil:
1 Kings 3:9-12: 9 Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?”
10 It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this.
11 And God said to him, “Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right,
12 behold, I give you a wise and discerning mind, so that none like you has been before you and none like you shall arise after you.
Philippians 1:9-11: 9 And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment,
10 so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ,
11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
1 John 4:1-6: 1 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.
2 By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God,
3 and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already.
4 Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.
5 They are from the world; therefore they speak from the world, and the world listens to them.
6 We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us; whoever is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the Spirit of truth and the spirit of error.
Romans 12:2-3: 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
3 For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.
Proverbs 3:21-23: 21 My son, do not lose sight of these—
keep sound wisdom and discretion,
22 So they will be life to your soul
and adornment to your neck.
23 Then you will walk on your way securely, and your foot will not stumble.
1 Corinthians 2:14-16: 14 The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.
15 The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one.
16 “For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.
Ephesians 5:8-10: 8 for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.
9 for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true.
10 and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.
James 1:5-8: 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.
7 For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;
8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
Proverbs 2:1-5: 1 My son, if you receive my words
and treasure up my commandments with you,
2 making your ear attentive to wisdom
and inclining your heart to understanding;
3 yes, if you call out for insight
and raise your voice for understanding,
4 if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures,
5 then you will understand the fear of the Lord
and find the knowledge of God.
1 Thessalonians 5:21-22: 21 but test everything; hold fast what is good.
22 Abstain from every form of evil.
Matthew 7:15-20: 15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.”
16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?
17 So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit.
18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit.
19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
20 Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.
Hebrews 4:12-13: 12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
Proverbs 14:15-16: 15 The simple believes everything,
but the prudent gives thought to his steps.
16 One who is wise is cautious and turns away from evil,
but a fool is reckless and careless.
Isaiah 5:20-21: 20 Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!
21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and shrewd in their own sight!
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.