Definition: Prophecy is speaking on behalf of God to a person or into a situation. Biblical prophets were unique to their time and place and spoke with the authority of scripture, calling out sin and proclaiming God’s will. God still uses people to prophesy, but these individuals do not speak with scripture’s authority and their words must be carefully evaluated against scripture.

Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 14:1-3; 1 Corinthians 14:29-33; 1 Thessalonians 5:19-21

Study: We should not confuse the New Testament gift of “prophecy” with the Old Testament office of “Prophet.” An Old Testament Prophet spoke the very words of God without error or omission, whereas someone exercising the gift of prophecy speaks under the influence of God in a manner that conforms to Biblical guidelines and teaching. Paul encourages all believers to seek to speak in this way— influenced by the Spirit for the building up of the body.

Questions to Ask: (these will help process the truth learned)

- What are the differences between an Old Testament Prophet and someone prophesying today?

- What does it mean to prophesy today? Can a modern “prophet” ever speak in the same way an Old Testament Prophet did?

- How do you prophesy?