How does the Bible say we should test prophets? Scripture neither tells us to accept every claim nor reject every messenger automatically. Instead, it provides principles we can examine carefully and apply consistently.
The Bible’s Test for Prophets
One of the clearest passages appears in Deuteronomy 18, where Moses explains how Israel could recognize whether someone truly spoke for God.
The passage teaches that when a prophet speaks in the Lord’s name, fulfilled prophecy is one important indicator of authenticity. If a prediction does not come to pass, the message did not come from God.
This biblical standard encourages thoughtful evaluation rather than blind acceptance or immediate dismissal.
Prophecy Involves More Than Prediction
Many people think prophecy only involves foretelling future events. However, the Bible also presents prophets as teachers who reveal forgotten truths, restore knowledge, and call people back to God’s covenant.
Because of this, evaluating a prophet involves more than examining predictions alone. Scripture shows that God also reveals truth about the past, explains His purposes, and restores teachings that may have been forgotten.
Applying the Biblical Standard
Joseph Smith claimed not only to receive revelations about future events but also to restore knowledge recorded in the Book of Moses. This raises an important question: can those restored teachings be examined using the Bible’s own standard?
One way to explore that question is by comparing the Genesis account with the Book of Moses and identifying what additional teachings each contains.
Comparing Genesis and the Book of Moses
Genesis records the creation, the Fall, and Adam and Eve’s expulsion from the Garden of Eden. However, it leaves many questions unanswered.
For example, Genesis does not explain Satan’s earlier rebellion, the purpose of the Fall, the meaning of sacrifice, or whether Adam and Eve received further instruction after leaving the garden.
The Book of Moses adds teachings on these topics, including the purpose of the Fall, angelic instruction, sacrifice, resurrection, and redemption.
Examining the Additional Teachings
The Book of Moses presents the Fall as part of God’s redemptive plan rather than only a tragic event. It also describes Adam and Eve receiving heavenly instruction after leaving Eden and learning about sacrifice and resurrection.
These teachings extend the Genesis narrative rather than simply restating it.
Later Historical Discoveries
Supporters of Joseph Smith note that some ancient writings translated years later contain themes similar to those found in the Book of Moses, including teachings about sacrifice, resurrection, and the role of the Fall.
While these similarities do not prove prophetic authority by themselves, they provide additional material for thoughtful comparison.
Considering the Overall Pattern
No single example settles the question of prophetic authority. Instead, the broader pattern invites careful study, comparison, and personal reflection.
The Bible consistently encourages people to examine prophetic claims rather than accept or reject them without consideration.
Conclusion
If you want to understand how to test prophets, the Bible encourages careful evaluation, honest study, and sincere prayer. Scripture presents a pattern of examining prophetic claims, comparing them with revealed truth, and seeking God’s guidance before reaching a conclusion.
