Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. 2 You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols. 3 Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12:1-3

This begins the Bible’s seminal teaching about the gifts of the Spirit. The introduction, however, is important for us to understand because it provides a framework for what is to come.

Paul recognized that there were a lot of “spirits” in and around the Church, given the background of many of its congregations. Essentially verse three is a “litmus test” for Believers and Non-Believers. Those were powerful words written for then and now.

We all have doubts from time to time. Some even doubt our own salvation and whether or not we’re really saved or not. “Jesus be cursed” and “Jesus is Lord” are two completely opposite phrases. The Believer will have a difficult time reading the first phrase out loud without hesitating. That’s why we are taken aback when the words ‘Jesus Christ’ is used as profanity in public or private settings, in the movies, in songs, or just in everyday life. Or we should be taken aback.

The Believer will not have a hard time reading “Jesus is Lord” and saying it out loud. It’s a welcome addition to his life.

So, is the Spirit of God in you? Whenever those dark moments arrive, return to this passage and take the test. You’ll be glad you did.