Yes, there can be misleading spirits.
That's why we're told to test the spirits by the word of God to make sure we are following the leading of the Holy Spirit.
"Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world." -- 1 John 4:1
If we begin with the presumption that the Holy Spirit DOES in fact work in the lives of God's children and leads them in sanctification, then the discussion becomes not "if" this is true, but if our personal experience is the true experience.
And again, our assurance comes by reading Scripture and recognizing ourselves as Trinitarian believers in Jesus Christ.
"Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." -- 1 Thessalonians 5:21 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." -- 2 Timothy 2:15"Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?" -- 2 Corinthians 13:5
And, IMO, that's why a presbyterian structure of the church is optimal -- a system of checks and balances among equals, rightly dividing the word of God, subject to a community of like-minded elders and presbyters.
It's a wonderful day, Dr. E, because I enjoyed your reply and, miraculously, agree with most of it. :)
However, the verses you quote — although they address the topic — propose a self-test. That is not reliable, because there are no checks and balances.
And, IMO, that's why a presbyterian structure of the church is optimal -- a system of checks and balances among equals, rightly dividing the word of God, subject to a community of like-minded elders and presbyters
That is your opinion and I respect that, but checks and balances among equals and like-minded people are little more than patting each other on the back, imo.