In the vibrant world of Pentecostal and charismatic churches, prophecy stands out as one of the most prevalent and impactful spiritual gifts. As a “power gift,” it operates dynamically, providing timely guidance as the Holy Spirit directs. Robert J Clinton aptly describes power gifts, like prophecy, as situational and dynamic, aligning us with what the Holy Spirit is saying at the moment, enabling us to move when He says move.
The Biblical Foundation for Spiritual Gifts
The Bible underscores that spiritual gifts are the primary means by which Jesus builds His Church. In Romans 12:4-8, the Apostle Paul illustrates that the Church is akin to a single body with many members, each possessing unique functions and gifts bestowed by grace. This diversity is essential for the Church’s growth, unity, and effectiveness.
‘For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.’ –
Romans 12:4-8
Understanding the Nature and Purpose of Prophecy
Prophecy differs from teaching, though teaching can incorporate prophetic elements. As a power gift, prophecy is both momentary and supernatural, delivering a specific message from God. Importantly, it is a gift that we are encouraged to desire because of its role in building up the Church.
‘Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy. For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no-one understands them; they utter mysteries by the Spirit. But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort. Anyone who speaks in a tongue edifies themselves, but the one who prophesies edifies the church.’ –
1 Corinthians 14:1-4
The Revelation of Prophecy
1. Prophecy Strengthens, Encourages, and Comforts
Prophecy serves to strengthen by edifying and advancing God’s work among His people. It encourages by exhorting believers to action, often carrying a weighty call to fulfill God’s will. Comfort is provided through reassurance of God’s presence and sovereignty, echoing frequent biblical reminders that God is with us, He is in control, and He is capable of saving, healing, and delivering.
2. Creative Prophecy
Prophecy can also be creative, speaking things into existence as God did during creation. While some prophetic words manifest immediately, others set in motion processes of growth, alignment, and development, partnering with God to bring His desires into being.
3. Foretelling
Prophecy has the capacity to foretell future events, revealing what God intends to bring about. A poignant example is found in Acts 21:10-13, where the prophet Agabus foretells the future trials awaiting Paul in Jerusalem. This aspect of prophecy does not necessarily direct actions but provides insight into God’s plans.
‘After we had been there a number of days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. Coming over to us, he took Paul’s belt, tied his own hands and feet with it and said, “The Holy Spirit says, ‘In this way the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and will hand him over to the Gentiles.’” When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”‘ – Acts 21:10-13
4. Forthtelling
In its forthtelling capacity, prophecy delivers specific messages from God for particular situations. Old Testament prophets often called God’s people to covenant faithfulness, addressing pressing issues and calling for repentance and alignment with God’s will.
‘You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,’ declares the Lord, ‘and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,’ declares the Lord, ‘and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.’ – Jeremiah 29:13-14
The Prophetic Role in Today’s Church
In today’s context, prophecy remains vital. The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, has changed many aspects of church life, including attendance and service. Despite these changes, God’s intention to build His Church and save lost souls remains unaltered. Prophecy reminds us of this unwavering divine purpose and calls us to partner with God in advancing His kingdom.
‘Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.’ – 1 Peter 4:10
‘And let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching.’ – Hebrews 10:24-25
Prophecy reminds us of the otherness of God, his greatness, his holiness, his majesty. Our God isn’t like us, finite, he’s not made of material and matter he is infinite yet knowable, he is to be feared and he is to be loved.
He is beauty, He is goodness, He is absolute purity, majesty.
Prophecy reminds us God is to be worshipped not mocked
Some things are sacred, holy, important – with those things we can’t be flippant but faithful.
Prophecy will convict us, challenge our allegiance, ask us are we sowing to flesh to fulfil it’s desire or sowing into God’s kingdom
Prophecy will re order our loves, call us to covenant faithfulness, faithfulness to will of Jesus
Applying and Developing the Gift of Prophecy
For those who feel called to prophecy, it is crucial to develop this gift actively. Here are some practical steps:
- Know the Bible: God will not contradict His Word. Continually read and listen to Scripture.
- Seek Full Revelation: Wrestle with the full revelation of God as revealed in Scripture. Avoid creating a God in your image.
- Observe Good Prophecy: Learn from those who prophesy well.
- Find a Mentor: Ask someone experienced in prophecy to mentor you.
- Keep a Journal: Document your prophetic words and experiences.
- Develop Good Language: Communicate clearly and effectively.
- Use Your Gift: Practice prophesying in accordance with your faith.
‘If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith.’ – Romans 12:6
The level of your prophecy will be determined by the level of your faith. Therefore, continue to grow in faith, knowledge, and understanding, and use the gift of prophecy to build up the Church and advance God’s kingdom.
Paul Benger 