Do not treat prophecies with contempt: No one should dismiss prophecy intended to spiritually strengthen the church (1 Corinthians 14:1–4). Instead, the Thessalonians should evaluate the prophecies to understand where they come from. Paul says they should make sure any prophecies align with the apostles' teachings (1 Corinthians 12:10; 14:29; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 1 John 4:1–3). The church should also assess the character of those who deliver the prophecies (Matthew 7:15–20).
Early Christian teaching stated, “Not everyone who speaks about spiritual things is a prophet, but only if the person’s behavior is like the Lord” (Didache 11:8). Paul encourages the Thessalonians to hold fast to what is good. Specifically, this means to test prophecies to see if they prove true.