When you hear the word prophet, what do you think of? Some weird guy walking around in a robe spouting off odd things about how we’re doomed? Prophets have been around for thousands of years, but what is their point and purpose today?
Old Testament Prophets
Many prophets in the Old Testament spoke of future events -most notably, the coming of Jesus the Messiah. But that isn’t the only thing they did. Most were very involved in government. In 1 Samuel 9, the Lord tells Samuel to anoint Saul king over Israel. The directions are very specific. When Saul fails to obey the Lord, He has Samuel anoint David as king.
God sent the prophet Elijah to turn back the people of Israel from their idolatry. He is probably most famous for confronting Queen Jezebel’s prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18) forcing the people to choose who they will follow – God or the Baals.
The Lord also sent prophets such as Jeremiah and Isaiah to warn Israel of their coming exile.
Today's Prophets
What is the purpose of today’s prophets? Much like those of old, they give direction to individuals and the corporate body of the church. When someone gives their life to Christ, they not only need to learn the Biblical ways, they also need to know what their individual purpose is. That’s where a prophetic person steps in to speak over their lives. It doesn’t mean what they say will happen immediately, but it gives the person an idea of the direction they need to go. Samuel anointed David as king, but he did not become king for approximately 15 years. The prophecy wasn’t wrong; it just took time. While David was waiting, he matured in his ability to lead.
Prophets, much like apostles, give directional words to the church body, which makes them part of the foundation. It may be specific to a local church, the larger corporate church, or even what is coming to nations in the days ahead. These things are not to produce fear; they are to prepare and guide people so they are ready for what’s to come. Some of these prophets have words that make it to the internet. It is up to us to test the word by praying to make sure what is said is what God is doing. After that, you need to know what God would have you do regarding the word.
Until next time under the palm, be blessed!
