1 Corinthians 12:3

Wherefore. In order that they might form a correct opinion concerning the working of the Holy Spirit on the hearts of men, and particularly in connection with utterances alleged to come from that source, Paul gave them a rule by which they might distinguish the false from the true.

Accursed. Gr. anathema, “devoted to destruction” (see on Rom. 9:3). Here a simple rule is given whereby it may be known whether one who claims to be under the influence of the Holy Spirit is really being led by God. One who is actuated by the Holy Spirit would not speak of Christ as being accursed, or deserving of destruction. It is inconceivable that any man inspired by the Holy Spirit would ever speak in a derogatory manner of Jesus, much less call Him a man who is cursed and set apart for destruction. Any such utterance is sufficient proof that the one who voices it, whatever his claims may be, is definitely not influenced by the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God would always, and under all circumstances, give honor to Christ, and would prompt anyone under His influence to love and reverence the name of Christ (see 1 John 4:1-3).

Jesus is the Lord. Anyone not influenced by the Spirit of God would not acknowledge that Jesus is the divine Son of God. This does not deny the possibility of words being uttered that would seem to recognize Christ as Lord or Saviour, apart from the influence of the Holy Spirit, for that has been done in mockery by evil men. But genuine heart confession of Jesus as Lord comes only from the lips of one who is led by the Spirit (cf. Matt. 16:16, 17). Those who tally honor the name and work of Jesus prove that they are influenced by the Holy Spirit. No man will ever cherish real regard for Christ, nor love His name and work, unless he is led by the Spirit to perceive the divine nature of the Saviour. No one can show his love for the name and work of Jesus by following the inclinations and promptings of his own unregenerate heart. In every instance where an individual is brought to accept Christ, it is through the agency of the Spirit of God. Conversely, one who is inclined to speak lightly of Jesus, or disparage His work in any way, or teach doctrines contrary to His Word, proves by so doing that he is not led of the Spirit (see DA 412). The presence of the Holy Spirit should be prayed for and cherished. To grieve away the Holy Spirit by refusing to follow His leading is to drive all true knowledge of the Saviour from the heart. This results in coldness, darkness, and finally spiritual death (see Eph. 4:30; DA 587, 588).