Understanding Prophecy
Pursue love and be eager for the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy (NET).
1 Cor. 14:1
What is Prophecy?
The word prophecy means to Foretell or Forth-tell. Foretelling means to tell the future. Forth-telling means to communicate a message from God. In 1 Corinthians 14 it tells us that prophecy is to strengthen, encourage and comfort our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Prophecy is for today
In the last days, God says, “I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy…In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on my servants – men and women alike – and they will prophesy.
Acts 2:17-18
In 1 Cor. 14:24-25 YLT Paul explains that prophecy can be used to reveal the secrets of an unbeliever’s heart.
In 1 Cor. 14:31 Paul is explaining that all can prophesy, so that all can be instructed and encouraged.
But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will not speak on his own authority, but will speak whatever he hears, and will tell you what is to come.
John 16:13
In John 16 Jesus speaks about the Advocate, the Spirit of truth, Holy Spirit coming and telling the future through his Holy Spirit filled believers.
What do you do with a word you receive?
Test all prophecy you receive (see 1 Thess 5:19-21)
- It should be consistent with Scripture
- Is should edify and encourage and be given in love
- Its purpose should be to bring the receiver closer to Jesus
- It shouldn’t be biased to the giver’s mindset or desires
For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. (NET)
1 Cor. 13:9
Related
Further reading
- Translating God by Shawn Bolz