Access Sermon (Wk 1)

We carefully check everything before making decisions - from product reviews to car inspections - yet often fail to examine what we allow into our spiritual lives. First John 4:1-3 commands us to test the spirits because what we give access to will eventually influence us. Evil influences don't force their way in; they look for small openings through agreement and compromise.

The Holy Spirit provides internal warnings when something is spiritually harmful, but we must learn to recognize and respond to these promptings. By establishing clear boundaries and testing every influence against God's truth, we can protect our spiritual well-being and close doors that need to be shut.