Book of 1 Thessalonians - Chapter 5 - Verse 20

When the Bible tells us not to despise prophesyings, it is encouraging us to be open to receiving messages from God through prophecy. Prophesyings are messages delivered by individuals who are believed to have a special gift of receiving divine revelations or insights. These messages can be warnings, encouragements, or instructions from God. By not despising prophesyings, we are being urged to listen with an open heart and discerning spirit to what God may be communicating to us through prophets. It is important to note that not all prophecies are true or from God, so it is crucial to test the spirits and compare the messages with the teachings of the Bible. Ultimately, respecting and considering prophesyings can lead to spiritual growth, guidance, and encouragement in our walk with God.

When examining the phrase "Despise not prophesyings" in a theological context, it is important to understand the concept of prophesying as it was understood in biblical times. In the New Testament, prophecy is often associated with the idea of receiving divine revelation or insight from God and sharing it with others for edification, encouragement, or correction. To despise prophesyings would then mean to dismiss or disregard these messages from God, which goes against the teachings of scripture that urge believers to test all prophecies but to hold fast to what is good. The word "despise" carries the connotation of looking down upon or treating something with contempt, indicating a serious attitude towards prophetic messages. By emphasizing the value of prophesyings and encouraging believers not to despise them, this verse underscores the importance of being open to receiving and discerning spiritual revelations for personal growth and communal edification within the faith community.