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Question 7

Dean Taylor calls Hoffman’s publishing of dreams and prophecies a “dangerous door,” because it put ongoing revelations “in par with the scripture”; using his in-class questions (Holy Spirit speaking vs. misinterpretation), what concrete practices should a church adopt to “judge these inner feelings” without quenching the Spirit or enthroning private impressions?

Another way to ask: What should a church do to test “inner feelings,” dreams, or prophecies without shutting down the Holy Spirit? What practical steps help keep private impressions from being treated like Scripture?

Direct Answer Dean’s in-class exchange suggests churches should welcome the Spirit’s leading but treat Scripture as the final measuring line, openly acknowledging misinterpretation is possible. Practically, impressions should be tested by biblical alignment and by the church’s shared discernment rather than immediately published or treated as authoritative.

Support from Transcript:

Dean says Hoffman “opened the door… that the scriptures are not complete and that we can get divine revelations,” calling it “a very dangerous door.”
He highlights the problem: revelations became “in par with the scripture,” including “bizarre dreams” printed and linked to current events.
Dean asks the class: “Do you believe that the Holy Spirit still speaks…?… do you ever think it’s wrong?… misinterpret?” and the group agrees misinterpretation happens.
He asks how to judge impressions; students respond: “align with the scripture… The word of God… They will never contradict.” Dean affirms this.
He reinforces a closed deposit: Jude 3 “once for all delivered,” and Paul: even “an angel from heaven” teaching another message is “a curse.”

Discussion Follow-ups How could a church structure testing (elders, congregational counsel, waiting, comparing with Scripture) so that zeal doesn’t rush ahead of discernment?

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