See with the Spirit: Spiritual Discernment
- Raymond Melendez
- Jun 21
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 8
As major tech platforms like YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), and Meta roll back policies once aimed at curbing misinformation, the debate between free expression and responsible speech intensifies. This cultural shift underscores a deeper need for discernment—one that transcends algorithmic filters or political speech. In 1 Corinthians 2, the Apostle Paul reveals that understanding comes from the Spirit of God. Jesus echoes this in Luke 11, declaring, "Blessed are those who hear God's word and make it their way of life." In an era where information spreads rapidly and judgments are often made quickly, Jesus invites us to live a different way of life.
What the World Conceals, the Spirit Reveals
YouTube’s decision to reverse its ban on content disputing the 2020 U.S. election results marks a pivotal shift in how truth, speech, and public discussions are governed in the digital age. While the platform frames the move as a way to protect open political debate, critics warn it may amplify misinformation and erode public trust in democracy (Isaac and Browning). This tension between controlling harmful narratives and preserving freedom of expression reflects a deeper struggle between the visible and the invisible—between worldly perception and spiritual truth.
In 1 Corinthians 2, the Apostle Paul contrasts these forces, declaring that the deepest truths are not grasped through human wisdom but revealed by the Holy Spirit.
“The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God” (1 Corinthians 2).
Paul emphasizes that comprehending the gifts of God goes beyond mere facts or opinions; it necessitates spiritual discernment. In a time when headlines influence belief and platforms dictate speech, Paul’s message is more relevant than ever—discernment comes from the Holy Spirit, who reveals what the world so often conceals.
From Censured to Commissioned
Twitter’s reinstatement of banned accounts under Elon Musk’s leadership signals a pivotal shift in the boundaries of online expression (Harwell and Zakrzewski). Prominent voices once silenced for controversial or offensive speech—whether satirical, political, or ideological—have returned to the platform in what Musk calls a defense of the “digital town square.” This move has sparked both celebration and concern: is this a reclaiming of free speech or a reckless unleashing of harm?
This tension mirrors the spiritual journey of the prophet Isaiah in chapter 6. When Isaiah encounters the holiness of God, he is immediately aware of his unworthiness: “I’m a man of unclean lips.” Yet God does not discard him. Instead, Isaiah is healed and then sent on a mission.
In our modern culture, where words are often met with cancellation or controversy, Isaiah’s transformation offers a deeper lens. Human speech, flawed and frail, can become powerful when surrendered to the Holy Spirit.
From Online Control to Inner Transformation
Meta’s decision to relax its COVID-19 misinformation policies marks yet another turning point in the evolving role of tech platforms as gatekeepers of public discussions. As the global health emergency fades, the company now permits content it once removed—false claims about vaccines, virus origins, and more—under the banner of adapting to a new phase and protecting free expression. Supporters call it a necessary update; critics worry it opens the door to resurgent misinformation and erodes trust in truth itself (Robertson).
Yet amid the noise of shifting policies and public reactions, Jesus offers a striking contrast in Luke 11: when a woman praises him by blessing his mother, he redirects the praise toward those who hear God’s word and make it their way of life. Just as Meta redefines its moderation stance in response to external changes, Jesus redefines what truly matters—not the message, but the response to it.
From Censorship to Discernment
As major tech platforms ease their grip on content moderation, a new chapter in online speech is unfolding—one marked by fewer restrictions and a renewed emphasis on free expression. Motivated by political pushback, shifting public sentiment, and regulatory scrutiny, companies like Meta, Twitter, and YouTube are stepping back from their roles as arbiters of truth. Whether this fosters open dialogue or fuels disinformation is still uncertain, but the age of blanket bans and sweeping censorship seems to be waning.
In this cultural pivot, the call to spiritual discernment becomes more vital than ever. Paul reminds us that we have received the Holy Spirit so that we may experience and comprehend the gifts that come from God, and like Isaiah, we are called to be vessels through which others may see themselves as God does. That is the way of the Spirit—and the way of Christ.
Works Cited
Harwell, Drew, and Cat Zakrzewski. “Musk Reinstates Twitter Accounts, Raising Fears of Online Hate Surge.” The Washington Post, 20 Nov. 2022, https://www.washingtonpost.com. Accessed 21 June 2025.
Isaac, Mike, and Kellen Browning. “YouTube Reverses Ban on Election Denialism.” The New York Times, 2 June 2023, https://www.nytimes.com. Accessed 21 June 2025.
Robertson, Adi. “Meta Will No Longer Remove Covid-19 Misinformation in Most Countries.” The Verge, 31 May 2023, https://www.theverge.com. Accessed 21 June 2025.