The Need for Discernment
by Fr. Kevin+ ~ March 11th, 2010. Filed under: The Christian Faith.There are certain imitations of true virtues as also of vices which play tricks with the heart and bedazzle the mind’s vision. As a result, the appearance of goodness often seems to be something which is evil, and equally the appearance of evil seems to be something good. This is part of our wretchedness and ignorance, causing us anguish and anxiety. To avoid this peril, St. John gives us these words of advice: “Test the spirits to see if they are from God.” Now no one can test the spirits to see if they are from God unless God has given us discernment. True discernment is a combination of right thinking and good intention.
—Baldwin, Archbishop of Canterbury, Treatise 6
Heh. Baldwin certainly did anticipate the revisionists of today, who, by subtly changing the use of traditional language, change and distort the Truth of the Christian faith. For those who wish to know the Truth, today more than ever, a discerning heart and mind are needed, a heart a mind animated and led by the very Spirit of God, guided by tradition, and held accountable by other faithful Christians.
