Who is a prophet?
This is the topic of much discussion in many places today and one that we must talk about.
Is someone a prophet just because they claim to be one? No, of course not. So how can we keep ourselves from being deceived?
No one uses this term today unless they do not understand the Biblical use or they believe in modern day revelation.
Why use scripture at all if God is going to reveal things today?
One must ask, what prophecies does this "prophet" give?
The prophecies have to come true to prove a real prophet.
Deuteronomy 18:21-22
21 You may say to yourselves, "How can we know when a message has not been spoken by the LORD ?" 22 If what a prophet proclaims in the name of the LORD does not take place or come true, that is a message the LORD has not spoken. That prophet has spoken presumptuously. Do not be afraid of him.
Prophets are mentioned in the New Testament several times, Acts 13:1, Acts 15:32, 1 Corinthians 12:28-29, Ephesians 3:4-5, Ephesians 4:11-13 and several other places.
What is important to mention though as in the example given in Ephesians 3:4-5 is that the prophets and apostles were both instruments to bring the gospel to mankind. Once it is revealed and handed down, there is no more need for prophets than for apostles.
Also as in Ephesians 4:11-13, prophets were equippers as were the other offices mentioned here. Paul anointed elders in every congregation for their oversight help to the church. He did not appoint prophets or apostles or teachers. With the written word today to equip us, we do not need the revelation to continue as the first century church did who did not have the written word like we do today.
One must weigh these things heavily and prayerfully in order to not be deceived and led astray.
People will try to take things out of context and use it to justify what they think or feel and that is why we must guard our hearts and test what is being said against the word of God.
The master of confusion is Satan and remember, he comes to kill, steal and destroy!
More to come tomorrow!
I'm really enjoying your lessons. Lots to think about. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteWOW - what an insight!!!
ReplyDeleteExcellent post Joe. We are instructed to put on the FULL ARMOR OF GOD... that means KNOWING HIS WORD. There will always be those who take only the portions of the Word to teach that will confirm their agenda... forgetting to mention what comes before and/or after the verse in question. Those types of teachers will surly send up red flags if you are wearing your armor... so suit up people... we are in a battle... now is the time decide what team you stand for!
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