The ear tests words as the palate tastes food. 

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world. § Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment. § I speak as to wise men; judge for yourselves what I say. § Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom.He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says. § He who is spiritual judges all things. § Take heed what you hear. § I know your works. You have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars. § Test all things; hold fast what is good.He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. Yet they will by no means follow a stranger, but will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.