We have spent the last two days defining the words “examine” and “prove.” Today notice the severe warning at the end of the verse, “except ye be reprobates” or as in some versions state, “fail the test.”

The root word for prove means “approved.” The Greek word for “reprobates” means “unapproved.” Even in English, many times to add an “a” to the beginning of a word gives it an opposite meaning.

For example, “symmetrical” means that things are even. “Asymmetrical” means they are uneven. We know that a “moral” person is one who has high standards of behavior while an “amoral” person has low standards of behavior.

So what Paul is saying here can be put like this, “Approve your standing before God so that when you stand before Him you will not be found unapproved. Test yourself so that you will be confident in your faith.”

When was the last time you examined and proved your faith to ensure that you are not a reprobate?