The Important Meaning of “Prove” and “Reprobate” (Part 2)

The Important Meaning of “Prove” and “Reprobate” (Part 2)

See Part 1 here.

“That ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” — Romans 12:2 (KJV) 

“God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient.” — Romans 1:28 (KJV)

These two words—prove and reprobate—represent not only two ends of a spiritual scale, but two pathways diverging in the heart of every believer. To understand them is to understand what God is seeking in those who follow Him—and what He sorrowfully abandons in those who turn away. Each word, in its origin and its usage, carries weight, purpose, and warning.

“Prove” – dokimazō

The Greek word translated “prove” in Romans 12:2 is dokimazō, which means to test, to examine, and to recognize something as genuine after scrutiny. This is not casual affirmation—it’s rigorous discernment that leads to spiritual confidence. Paul uses this word often to describe the responsibility of the renewed mind: to be spiritually perceptive, careful in judgment, and eager to affirm that which is good, acceptable, and perfect in God’s eyes.

Walking the Line Between Proving and Reprobation (Part 1)

Walking the Line Between Proving and Reprobation (Part 1)

Introduction to the Series

Many believers know they are called to follow God’s will—but few realize that Scripture presents this calling on a scale, a line of spiritual measure that runs between two vastly different minds: one that proves what is good and acceptable in God’s eyes, and one that becomes reprobate, rejected after failing the test. This article begins a crucial series exploring this forgotten scale of the mind, rooted in Paul’s epistles and illuminated through careful word study and real-life application.

Over the next few parts, we’ll uncover what it means to prove the will of God, how to recognize the drift toward spiritual disqualification, and how to realign the mind through intentional renewal. You’ll be equipped with the biblical insight and encouragement needed to stay sharp, faithful, and approved—not just in knowledge, but in daily walk and worship.