The Gift of Prophecy

The Modern Context of Prophecy

There is a lot of buzz and hype in Charismatic and Pentecostal circles today concerning the gift of prophecy. A whole movement has sprung up called the “Prophetic Movement.” Many individuals identify themselves as prophets, often leading to confusion and, at times, misplaced focus.

When I was a new believer, I became involved in one such “movement.” Initially, I thought it represented the latest and greatest work of God. However, after a few years, I realized that movements often bring baggage, such as extreme practices or unbalanced teachings. What God truly calls us to is not chasing movements but running our own race toward the high calling in Christ Jesus (Hebrews 12:1).

Since then, I’ve seen numerous movements come and go, each contributing to the broader conversation about faith while also bringing excesses. While these movements may highlight aspects of God’s work, they often lack balance, leaving some believers discouraged or confused. In this lesson, I aim to strip away the baggage and provide clarity, correction, and encouragement about how every believer can be used in the spiritual gift of prophecy. The gift of prophecy, when used properly, strengthens the church and reveals God’s love in action.

The Biblical Basis for Prophecy

Prophecy in the New Testament

Our focus is on prophecy as outlined in the New Testament because we live in the Church Age, not under the Mosaic Law. Prophecy has evolved in its function and expression. In the Old Testament, prophets often proclaimed divine judgment and retribution, but New Testament prophecy serves a different purpose.

Paul describes this shift in 1 Corinthians 14:3:

“But one who prophesies strengthens others, encourages them, and comforts them.”

This description excludes proclamations of divine judgment, reflecting the transformation brought about by the cross. Prophecy in the New Testament is centered on building up the body of Christ. It is an expression of God’s grace, fostering hope and faith among believers. As Romans 8:1 declares:

“There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus.”

New Testament prophecy is not a tool for condemnation but a means of edification, encouragement, and comfort. It directs believers toward greater faith in God’s promises and His purposes.

Examples of Prophecy in the Life of Jesus

Foretelling Peter’s Denial

In Luke 22, Jesus demonstrates the gift of prophecy when He predicts Peter’s denial:

“And the Lord said, ‘Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.’ But he said to Him, ‘Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.’ Then He said, ‘I tell you, Peter, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.’”

Here, Jesus uses prophecy to forewarn Peter of his impending failure. However, He also provides reassurance, praying for Peter’s restoration and encouraging him to strengthen others after his return. This dual role of forewarning and comforting exemplifies New Testament prophecy. It not only highlights God’s knowledge of future events but also reveals His grace and redemptive purposes.

Predicting His Death and Resurrection

In John 2, Jesus uses prophetic language to foretell His death and resurrection:

“Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.’ Then the Jews said, ‘It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will You raise it up in three days?’ But He was speaking of the temple of His body. Therefore, when He had risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this to them; and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had said.”

This prophecy illustrates that prophetic words often require discernment and time to understand fully. While initially misunderstood, Jesus’s words later strengthened the disciples’ faith after His resurrection. This example teaches us that prophecy may have layers of meaning that unfold over time, pointing to God’s sovereignty and plan.

Prophecy in the Early Church

Warnings About Paul’s Journey to Jerusalem

Prophecy played a vital role in guiding early church decisions. In Acts 21, we see two instances of prophecy regarding Paul’s return to Jerusalem:

Disciples in Tyre

“And finding disciples, we stayed there seven days. They told Paul through the Spirit not to go up to Jerusalem.”

These disciples, through the Spirit, urged Paul not to go. While it is unclear whether this was a directive or a warning, it underscores the active role of prophecy in church life. This instance demonstrates how prophecy can prompt prayerful consideration and preparation.

Agabus’s Prophecy

“And as we stayed many days, a certain prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. When he had come to us, he took Paul’s belt, bound his own hands and feet, and said, ‘Thus says the Holy Spirit, “So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man who owns this belt, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.”’”

Agabus used a symbolic act to convey the prophecy, emphasizing the gravity of the situation awaiting Paul. Despite these warnings, Paul chose to proceed, interpreting the prophecies as preparation rather than deterrence. This highlights an essential principle: prophecy requires discernment and personal responsibility for application. Prophecy provides insight but does not override the need for individual obedience and faith.

Prophecy in the Modern Church

Amid the excitement surrounding prophecy today, it is crucial to distinguish genuine prophetic words from hype. Prophecy is not about grand titles or dramatic proclamations but about serving the body of Christ. When properly exercised, prophecy glorifies God and strengthens the Church.

Evaluating Prophetic Words

Here are some guiding principles for evaluating prophecy:

• Alignment with Scripture: Does the prophecy strengthen, encourage, and comfort as described in 1 Corinthians 14:3? Prophecy that aligns with God’s Word reflects His character and truth.
• Character of the Messenger: Does the individual delivering the prophecy display humility and godly character? True prophecy flows from a heart aligned with God’s purposes.
• Confirmation: Does the prophecy align with the written Word of God and resonate with mature, spiritually discerning believers? Prophecy often serves as confirmation of what God has already revealed.
• Accountability: Has the prophecy been judged and confirmed by others? As 1 Corinthians 14:29 instructs:

“Let two or three people prophesy, and let the others evaluate what is said.”

In my own experience, prophetic words about returning to ministry were confirmed through trusted spiritual mentors. This practice of evaluating prophecy has brought balance and integrity to my ministry and personal walk with God.

Practical Applications

Prophecy in the modern church can take many forms:

• Corporate Encouragement: Building up the congregation during worship or prayer meetings.
• Personal Prophecies: Speaking encouragement or guidance into an individual’s life, always pointing them toward Christ.
• Evangelistic Prophecy: Sharing words of knowledge or insight with unbelievers to reveal God’s presence and love.

Balancing Prophecy with Integrity

In our church, we take time to evaluate prophetic words carefully. This approach ensures they are taken seriously while guarding against the harm caused by untested or self-serving prophecies. Creating an environment of accountability fosters trust and encourages the proper use of this gift.

By embracing humility, submitting to spiritual authority, and remaining grounded in God’s Word, the gift of prophecy can flourish in a way that glorifies God and strengthens His Church.

Conclusion

The gift of prophecy is a powerful tool for strengthening, encouraging, and comforting the body of Christ. When exercised with humility, accountability, and alignment with God’s Word, it serves as a profound expression of God’s love and guidance.

My prayer is that you, too, will pursue this gift with balance and integrity, using it to build up others and glorify God. May we all strive to run the race set before us, focusing on Christ rather than chasing movements or titles. Let us use the gift of prophecy to point others to the hope and truth found in Jesus Christ.

How Does the Gift of Extraordinary Faith Relate to the Gift of Prophecy?

The gift of prophecy often illuminates paths that require deep trust in the unseen. Embracing extraordinary faith journey empowers individuals to accept these revelations, fostering a connection that transcends doubt. As one navigates divine messages, the synergy between prophetic insights and extraordinary faith cultivates growth and resilience in the spiritual life.

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