Apostles and Prophets

And about the apostles and prophets, act according to the rule of the Gospel.

Let every apostle who comes to you be welcomed as the Lord. But he is not to stay more than one day, or a second if there is need; if he stays three days, he is a false prophet. When the apostle leaves, let him take nothing but bread, enough to last until he finds lodging; if he asks for money, he is a false prophet. [a]

Do not test or judge any prophet who speaks in the Spirit, for every sin will be forgiven, but this sin will not be forgiven. Not everyone who speaks in the Spirit is a prophet, though — only the one who holds to the ways of the Lord. So the false prophet and the true prophet will be known by their ways. Any prophet who calls for a meal while in the Spirit does not eat from it himself; if he does, he is a false prophet. And any prophet who teaches the truth but does not do what he teaches is a false prophet. But a prophet who has been tested and found genuine, and who acts toward an earthly mystery of the church, yet does not teach others to do what he does himself — do not judge him. His judgment rests with God, for the ancient prophets acted the same way. But if anyone says in the Spirit, “Give me money,” or anything else, do not listen to him; if he tells you to give it for others who are in need, let no one judge him.