The Importance of Prophecy and Prophetic Ministry in the Church today

Prophecy holds a distinct and notable place within Scripture, particularly in

the context of spiritual gifts. Among the various gifts listed in the New

Testament, prophecy is the only one consistently mentioned across all

three primary gift lists. This consistency underscores its importance and

multifaceted nature within the Church.

Prophecy in the Three Primary Gift Lists

1. I Corinthians 12:7-10

This passage highlights the gifts that are distributed by the Holy Spirit for

the edification of the body of Christ. These gifts are given based on God’s

determination and our availability. They are given through the body to edify

the body. Prophecy, within this context, serves as a means of building up

the church, as seen in various instances throughout the New Testament

(Acts 19:6, 21:9). The role of prophecy here is to benefit the entire body,

reinforcing the collective spiritual growth and unity of believers.

2. Ephesians 4:11

In this passage, the gifts are associated with specific offices and callings of

an individual within the church; the person is the gift. They are provided to

equip believers for works of service and to build up the body of Christ. They

are given to the body to equip the body. Prophets, alongside apostles,

evangelists, pastors, and teachers, are called to prepare God’s people for

service (Acts 13:1, 21:10, 11:27, 15:32). The focus here is on the role of

prophecy as a function within the church’s leadership, guiding and

instructing the community in their spiritual journey.

3. Romans 12:6-8

The gifts mentioned in Romans pertain to personality and individual

giftedness. These gifts are given “planted” in the body to enable effective

works of ministry by the body. Prophecy, in this sense, is tied to personal

expression and the unique way an individual is gifted to serve within the

church. The emphasis is on being all that God has made each person to

be, encouraging believers to see themselves as active agents in God’s

work.

Defining Prophecy: A Simple Yet Profound Understanding

At its core, prophecy is defined as God speaking through a vessel. It is a

discourse—communication of instruction, information, ideas, and more—

that emanates from divine inspiration. This divine communication

reveals the purposes of God and provides insight that can only be known

through revelation. It is crucial to understand that prophecy is not merely

about predicting the future; rather, it is about declaring God’s will and

purposes in a manner that can only be revealed through divine means.

Five Features of Prophecy

Prophecy is not only a profound spiritual gift but also an active force that

brings about change and transformation. Here are five key features that

define its impact:

1. Prophecy Brings Life

Prophecy has a life-giving quality. It stirs up life and creativity, as God

provides the words to speak, which are carried by the Breath or Spirit of

God. This is vividly illustrated in Ezekiel 37, where God’s prophetic words

bring dry bones to life.

2. Prophecy is Highly Active

Prophecy is inherently dynamic. It has the power to create and cause

action or change, both in the spiritual realm and ultimately in the natural

realm. This aligns with the creative word of God seen in Genesis 1, where

God’s spoken word brings forth creation.

3. Prophecy is Creative in Nature

The prophetic word is not just a passive message but one that generates

literal activity. It activates spiritual realities that eventually manifest in the

physical world, demonstrating the creative power of God’s word.

4. Prophecy Stirs Up Action

Prophecy not only stirs up spiritual activity but also motivates and

energizes individuals. It brings clarity, purpose, and direction, urging

believers to act according to God’s revealed will.

5. Prophecy Stirs the Individual

Finally, prophecy stirs the individual to whom it is given. It awakens a sense

of purpose and calling, encouraging believers to embrace their role as

instruments of God’s will.

In conclusion, prophecy’s presence across all three primary gift lists, along

with its profound impact and life-giving nature, highlights its significance

within the Christian faith. It serves as a powerful means through which God

communicates with His people, guiding, equipping, and stirring them to

fulfill their divine purpose.

I encourage you to reflect on these aspects and consider how you can

incorporate these gifts into your own life. Ask yourself, “How can I stir up

and activate these gifts within me?” particularly the gift of prophecy, as

emphasized by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 14:1. Consider how these

gifts can be a part of your ministry and life. Then, think about how you can

inspire and ignite these gifts in others as you continue to serve within the

ministry to which God has called you.