The Prophetic Calling

Signs of a Prophetic Calling:

Divine Encounter or Calling from God
A prophetic calling often begins with a divine encounter, vision, or direct calling from God.
- Moses: Called through the burning bush (Exodus 3:1-10).
- Jeremiah: Called before birth (Jeremiah 1:4-5).
- Isaiah: Encountered God's glory in the temple (Isaiah 6:1-8).
➤ Jeremiah 1:5 (KJV) – "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations."
Burden for Righteousness and Justice
Prophets have a strong conviction for God's truth, righteousness, and justice. They are burdened by sin and the condition of God's people.
- Elijah: Confronted Israel’s apostasy (1 Kings 18).
- John the Baptist: Preached repentance and rebuked sin (Matthew 3:1-12).
➤ Amos 3:7 (KJV) – "Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets."
Sensitivity to God's Voice and Revelation
Prophets receive divine messages through dreams, visions, or direct words from God.
- Samuel: Heard God's voice as a child (1 Samuel 3:1-10).
- Ezekiel: Saw divine visions (Ezekiel 1:1).
➤ Numbers 12:6 (KJV) – "If there be a prophet among you, I the Lord will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream."
Ability to Discern and Interpret Spiritual Realities
Prophets understand spiritual mysteries and discern events beyond human perception.
- Daniel: Interpreted Nebuchadnezzar’s dreams (Daniel 2).
- Joseph: Interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams (Genesis 41).
➤ 1 Corinthians 2:10 (KJV) – "But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God."
Confirmation by Other Prophets or Leaders
Prophetic callings are often confirmed by mature believers or other prophets.
- Elisha’s calling: Confirmed by Elijah (1 Kings 19:19-21).
- Paul and Barnabas: Recognized by church leaders (Acts 13:1-3).
➤ 1 Timothy 4:14 (KJV) – "Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery."
Persecution and Opposition
Prophets often face rejection, persecution, and trials because they proclaim unpopular truths.
- Jeremiah: Imprisoned and beaten (Jeremiah 20:1-2).
- Jesus: Stated that prophets are often rejected (Matthew 23:37).
➤ Matthew 5:11-12 (KJV) – "Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake."

Spiritual Gifts Associated with Prophets (1 Corinthians 12:7-11)

Gift of Prophecy (1 Corinthians 12:10)
- Foretelling future events and declaring God’s will.
Word of Knowledge (1 Corinthians 12:8)
- Supernatural revelation of hidden things.
Word of Wisdom (1 Corinthians 12:8)
- Divine insight to apply knowledge properly.
Discerning of Spirits (1 Corinthians 12:10)
- Identifying spiritual influences, both divine and demonic.
Visions and Dreams (Acts 2:17)
- Seeing revelations in the spiritual realm.
Miracles and Signs (Acts 8:6-7)
- Demonstrating God's power through supernatural acts.

Conclusion

A prophetic calling is marked by a divine calling, revelation, discernment, and a burden for truth. It is also accompanied by the spiritual gifts necessary for proclaiming God’s will. However, with this calling comes great responsibility, opposition, and the necessity for humility and obedience to God.

How to Cultivate a Prophetic Calling

A prophetic calling must be nurtured through spiritual discipline, obedience, and intimacy with God. Below is a biblical guide on how to cultivate and develop the prophetic calling in your life.

1. Deepen Your Relationship with God

A prophet must have an intimate walk with God to receive and rightly interpret divine revelations.

Spend time in prayer and fasting (Daniel 9:3).
Develop a habit of worship and devotion (Psalms 27:4).
Seek God's presence daily (Exodus 33:11).

➤ James 4:8 (KJV) – "Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you."

2. Immerse Yourself in God’s Word

A true prophet must be rooted in Scripture to ensure that their revelations align with God’s truth.

Study prophetic books (Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, etc.).
Memorize and meditate on God’s Word (Psalms 119:105).
Test every revelation against Scripture (1 Thessalonians 5:21).

➤ 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (KJV) – "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness."

3. Develop a Lifestyle of Prayer and Intercession

Prophets are intercessors, standing in the gap for people, nations, and the Church.

Pray for spiritual discernment (Colossians 1:9).
Pray for wisdom to interpret revelations correctly (James 1:5).
Pray for boldness to speak God’s truth (Acts 4:29).

➤ Ezekiel 22:30 (KJV) – "And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it."

4. Be Filled with the Holy Spirit

A prophetic calling requires the leading and empowerment of the Holy Spirit.

Seek the baptism and infilling of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4).
Learn to hear and obey the Holy Spirit’s voice (John 16:13).
Walk in the gifts of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:7-11).

➤ Galatians 5:25 (KJV) – "If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit."

5. Grow in Discernment and Spiritual Sensitivity

Prophets must discern between God’s voice, the flesh, and demonic deception.

Learn to distinguish between true and false prophecy (Deuteronomy 18:20-22).
Exercise discernment of spirits (1 John 4:1).
Be cautious of personal emotions influencing revelation (Jeremiah 23:16).

➤ Hebrews 5:14 (KJV) – "But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."

6. Submit to Spiritual Authority and Mentorship

A prophet must be accountable to mature leaders in the faith.

Seek guidance from mature believers and church elders (Hebrews 13:17).
Be teachable and open to correction (Proverbs 19:20).
Surround yourself with other prophetic voices for sharpening (Proverbs 27:17).

➤ 1 Samuel 3:19 (KJV) – "And Samuel grew, and the Lord was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground."

7. Step Out in Obedience and Faith

A prophetic calling is activated through obedience to God's instructions.

Speak the word God gives you with boldness (Jeremiah 1:7-8).
Do not fear rejection or persecution (Matthew 10:16-20).
Act in faith and trust God’s leading (Hebrews 11:6).

➤ Acts 26:19 (KJV) – "Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision."

8. Walk in Humility and Love

The prophetic gift must be used in humility and for edification, not self-exaltation.

Stay humble before God and people (James 4:6).
Speak the truth in love, not arrogance (Ephesians 4:15).
Avoid pride and seeking recognition (Matthew 6:1).

➤ 1 Corinthians 13:2 (KJV) – "And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing."

9. Be Prepared for Spiritual Warfare

A prophetic calling attracts spiritual opposition from the enemy.

Put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18).
Resist the devil through prayer and fasting (James 4:7).
Stay watchful against deception and distractions (2 Corinthians 2:11).

➤ Luke 22:31-32 (KJV) – "And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not."

10. Serve the Body of Christ Faithfully

A prophet’s role is to strengthen and build the Church.

Use your gift for the edification of others (1 Corinthians 14:3).
Be faithful in small assignments before expecting greater ones (Luke 16:10).
Encourage, warn, and correct with wisdom and patience (2 Timothy 4:2).

➤ Ephesians 4:11-12 (KJV) – "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ."

Conclusion

Cultivating a prophetic calling requires dedication to prayer, Scripture, humility, obedience, and submission to God’s will. It is a lifelong journey of growth, refining, and service to God and His people.

Prophets Today: Their Qualities and Experiences Compared to Old Testament Prophets

Prophets in the New Testament era continue to function as God’s messengers, but their role has shifted in some ways compared to Old Testament prophets. Below is a comparison of the qualities and experiences of prophets today versus those of the Old Testament, based on Scripture.

1. Calling and Divine Commission

Old Testament Prophets

Directly called by God through visions, dreams, angelic encounters, or divine speech (Exodus 3:4; Isaiah 6:1-8; Jeremiah 1:4-10).
Had a specific mission to warn, rebuke, or guide Israel (Ezekiel 2:1-7).
Often received their commission through supernatural encounters (Isaiah 6:1-4; Ezekiel 1).

Prophets Today

Called by God through the Holy Spirit (Acts 13:2).
Function within the church to edify, exhort, and comfort believers (1 Corinthians 14:3).
The prophetic office is part of the fivefold ministry given to the Church (Ephesians 4:11-12).
Some receive divine encounters, but most are called through a process of spiritual growth and confirmation by leaders in the Church.

Key Verse:
➤ Acts 13:2 (KJV) – "As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them."

2. The Message and Role of the Prophet

Old Testament Prophets

Proclaimed judgment and repentance for the nation of Israel and surrounding nations (Jeremiah 25:4-7; Jonah 3:4).
Foretold future events, including the coming of Christ (Isaiah 53; Micah 5:2).
Confronted kings and rulers (2 Samuel 12:7-9; 1 Kings 18:17-18).

Prophets Today

Focus on strengthening and edifying the Church (1 Corinthians 14:3).
Speak of spiritual warnings and revival rather than national judgments.
Some receive insight into future events, but the emphasis is on guiding believers in their walk with God (1 Timothy 1:18).
Work within the Body of Christ, rather than being isolated individuals like many Old Testament prophets.

Key Verse:
➤ 1 Corinthians 14:3 (KJV) – "But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort."

3. Miraculous Signs and Supernatural Experiences

Old Testament Prophets

Often performed mighty signs and wonders (Elijah calling fire from heaven – 1 Kings 18:36-38; Moses parting the Red Sea – Exodus 14:21).
Some had dramatic symbolic actions to deliver messages (Hosea 1:2-3; Ezekiel 4:1-13).
Many experienced angelic visitations and divine appearances (Daniel 9:21-23; Zechariah 4:1-5).

Prophets Today

Some operate in the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:10).
Many experience dreams and visions, but not all have physical signs like Old Testament prophets.
Some may perform miracles, but their focus is on spiritual gifts for the edification of the Church, rather than national deliverance.

Key Verse:
➤ Joel 2:28 (KJV) – "And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions."

4. Relationship with Kings and Governments

Old Testament Prophets

Confronted and advised kings and rulers (Nathan rebuking David – 2 Samuel 12:1-7; Daniel interpreting dreams for Nebuchadnezzar – Daniel 2:27-28).
Were sometimes persecuted and imprisoned by kings (Jeremiah 37:15-16; 1 Kings 22:27).
Had authority over political affairs because Israel was a theocracy (God ruled through His prophets and judges).

Prophets Today

May have influence in government, but their primary role is in the Church, not political leadership.
Some may warn leaders, but they are not national advisors like Elijah or Daniel.
Many are persecuted for preaching righteousness, but they do not control kingdoms.

Key Verse:
➤ John 18:36 (KJV) – "Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world."

5. Persecution and Rejection

Old Testament Prophets

Were rejected, persecuted, and even killed for their message (1 Kings 19:10; Hebrews 11:37).
Often had to suffer alone because people did not accept their message (Jeremiah 20:7-10).

Prophets Today

Still face opposition, criticism, and rejection, especially for calling people to repentance.
Are sometimes falsely accused or ridiculed for speaking truth.
Unlike Old Testament prophets, they belong to the Body of Christ and have a spiritual family for support.

Key Verse:
➤ Matthew 5:11-12 (KJV) – "Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake."

6. Prophets and the Church Today

Old Testament Prophets

Were mostly individual messengers.
Often functioned alone or in small groups (Elijah and Elisha, the company of prophets).

Prophets Today

Function within the Church, not in isolation (Ephesians 4:11-12).
Their role is to equip believers for ministry and strengthen the Church.
Are part of the fivefold ministry working alongside apostles, pastors, teachers, and evangelists.

Key Verse:
➤ Ephesians 4:11-12 (KJV) – "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints."

Conclusion: Are Prophets Today Like Old Testament Prophets?

Prophets today share many qualities with Old Testament prophets, such as:
✔ A divine calling and spiritual encounters with God.
✔ The ability to speak God's truth with boldness.
✔ Suffering and persecution for their message.
✔ Spiritual discernment and the ability to foretell future events.

However, there are major differences:

Old Testament prophets were national figures, while prophets today are primarily within the Church.
Old Testament prophets foretold major events (including Christ’s coming), while modern prophets mainly focus on edification and direction for the Body of Christ.
Old Testament prophets often stood alone, while modern prophets work within the fivefold ministry.

Final Thought:
The prophetic calling today is just as real and essential as in the past. However, New Testament prophets are called to strengthen the Church rather than to pronounce judgment on nations. True prophets will always align with God’s Word, point people to Christ, and operate in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Testing and Identifying True vs. False Prophets in Today’s Church

The Bible warns about false prophets while also affirming that true prophets still exist in the Church today. Jesus and the apostles provided clear guidelines for testing prophets to determine whether they are sent by God or not.

1. The Biblical Mandate to Test Prophets

God does not want His people to be deceived by false prophets, so He commands us to test every spirit before accepting a prophetic message.

Key Verses:
➤ 1 John 4:1 (KJV) – "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world."
➤ 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21 (KJV) – "Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good."

We are to respect true prophecy but also examine it carefully. Below are seven biblical tests to distinguish between a true prophet of God and a false prophet.

2. Seven Tests for True vs. False Prophets

Test #1: Do They Lead People to Jesus Christ?

✅ True Prophets point people to Jesus Christ, emphasizing His Lordship, salvation, and holiness.
❌ False Prophets exalt themselves, promote deception, or lead people away from Christ.

Key Verse:
➤ 1 John 4:2-3 (KJV) – "Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist."

✔ If a prophet denies Christ’s deity, resurrection, or biblical truth, they are false.

Test #2: Does Their Message Align with Scripture?

✅ True Prophets always speak in harmony with God’s written Word.
❌ False Prophets contradict the Bible or introduce new, unbiblical teachings.

Key Verse:
➤ Isaiah 8:20 (KJV) – "To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them."

✔ Every prophecy must be tested against the Bible—God’s unchanging standard.

Test #3: Do Their Prophecies Come to Pass?

✅ True Prophets give prophecies that come to pass exactly as spoken.
❌ False Prophets give predictions that fail or require excuses.

Key Verse:
➤ Deuteronomy 18:21-22 (KJV) – "When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken."

✔ If a prophet repeatedly gives false prophecies, they are not from God.

Test #4: Do They Exhibit Godly Character?

✅ True Prophets live in humility, righteousness, and holiness.
❌ False Prophets often live in pride, greed, immorality, and deception.

Key Verse:
➤ Matthew 7:15-16 (KJV) – "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits."

✔ A prophet’s lifestyle, attitude, and personal integrity must reflect Christ.

Test #5: Do They Promote Repentance and Righteousness?

✅ True Prophets call people to repentance and holy living.
❌ False Prophets preach messages that please the flesh and avoid correction.

Key Verse:
➤ Jeremiah 23:21-22 (KJV) – "I have not sent these prophets, yet they ran... But if they had stood in my counsel, and had caused my people to hear my words, then they should have turned them from their evil way."

✔ True prophets never encourage sin or compromise with ungodliness.

Test #6: Do They Exploit People for Money?

✅ True Prophets serve freely without manipulation for financial gain.
❌ False Prophets exploit people with false promises in exchange for money.

Key Verse:
➤ 2 Peter 2:1-3 (KJV) – "There shall be false teachers among you... through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you."

✔ If a prophet is focused on money, fame, or luxurious living, be cautious.

Test #7: Do They Have Signs of the Holy Spirit?

✅ True Prophets bear the fruits and gifts of the Spirit (love, patience, wisdom, miracles, healing, etc.).
❌ False Prophets may operate in false signs and wonders through deception.

Key Verse:
➤ Matthew 24:24 (KJV) – "For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect."

✔ True prophets will never contradict the Spirit’s nature (Galatians 5:22-23).

3. False Prophets in the End Times

Jesus warned that false prophets will increase in the last days, deceiving many through false teachings, counterfeit miracles, and corrupt motives.

Key Verses:
➤ Matthew 24:11 (KJV) – "And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many."
➤ 2 Timothy 4:3-4 (KJV) – "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine... and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables."

✔ This is why discernment and testing are more crucial than ever.

4. True vs. False Prophets: A Biblical Comparison

Biblical Test	True Prophet	False Prophet
Do they point to Jesus?	Exalts Jesus as Lord and Savior	Leads people away from Christ
Does their message align with the Bible?	100% scriptural and sound doctrine	Twists, adds, or ignores Scripture
Do their prophecies come true?	Fulfilled exactly as spoken	Failed prophecies and excuses
Do they have godly character?	Humble, righteous, faithful	Proud, greedy, immoral
Do they call for repentance?	Leads people to holiness	Encourages sin or worldly living
Do they exploit people for money?	Serves without manipulation	Seeks personal gain and wealth
Do they show the Holy Spirit’s fruit?	Love, joy, peace, humility	False signs, deception, arrogance

Conclusion: How to Guard Against False Prophets

Know the Word of God – The Bible is our standard of truth (2 Timothy 3:16).
Test Every Spirit – Don’t accept every prophecy without testing it (1 John 4:1).
Observe Their Life and Fruits – A prophet’s character must reflect Christ (Matthew 7:15-16).
Seek the Holy Spirit’s Discernment – The Spirit of Truth will guide us (John 16:13).
Do Not Be Moved by Signs Alone – Even false prophets can perform miracles (Matthew 24:24).
Stay Rooted in the Church – A true prophet is accountable to God’s people (Ephesians 4:11-12).

Bible Study Outline: Testing Prophets – True or False?

Theme: Discerning True Prophets from False Prophets

Key Verse:

📖 1 John 4:1 (KJV) – "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world."

I. Introduction

The Bible teaches that prophecy is a gift from God (Ephesians 4:11), but it also warns about false prophets who deceive many (Matthew 24:11).
We are commanded to test every spirit to see if it is from God (1 Thessalonians 5:20-21).

Group Discussion Starter:
➡️ Have you ever heard of a prophecy that turned out to be false? What was your reaction?

II. Seven Biblical Tests for True vs. False Prophets

1. Do They Lead People to Jesus Christ?

✅ True Prophets exalt Jesus as Lord and Savior.
❌ False Prophets focus on themselves, personal visions, or misleading teachings.

📖 1 John 4:2-3 – "Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God."

Discussion Questions:
➡️ Why is Jesus Christ the center of all true prophecy?
➡️ Can someone claim to be a prophet and still deny Jesus in subtle ways?

2. Does Their Message Align with Scripture?

✅ True Prophets speak in harmony with the Bible.
❌ False Prophets twist or add new, unbiblical teachings.

📖 Isaiah 8:20 – "To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them."

Discussion Questions:
➡️ What are some modern examples of teachings that contradict the Bible?
➡️ How can we train ourselves to recognize when a message does not align with Scripture?

3. Do Their Prophecies Come to Pass?

✅ True Prophets speak God’s words, and their prophecies are fulfilled.
❌ False Prophets make predictions that fail or require excuses.

📖 Deuteronomy 18:21-22 – "If the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken."

Activity:
➡️ Have each group member recall a prophecy they’ve heard. Was it fulfilled? If not, what was the response of the one who gave it?

Discussion Questions:
➡️ Can a true prophet ever make a mistake in prophecy? Why or why not?
➡️ What should we do if a prophecy does not come to pass?

4. Do They Exhibit Godly Character?

✅ True Prophets live in humility, holiness, and obedience to God.
❌ False Prophets are often proud, greedy, and immoral.

📖 Matthew 7:15-16 – "Ye shall know them by their fruits."

Discussion Questions:
➡️ What does it mean to test someone by their fruits?
➡️ Why is character more important than spiritual gifts?

5. Do They Preach Repentance and Righteousness?

✅ True Prophets call people to repentance and holy living.
❌ False Prophets avoid correction, focusing only on prosperity or success.

📖 Jeremiah 23:21-22 – "If they had stood in my counsel, and had caused my people to hear my words, then they should have turned them from their evil way."

Discussion Questions:
➡️ Why do false prophets avoid preaching repentance?
➡️ Can a prophet preach the truth but live in disobedience?

6. Do They Exploit People for Money?

✅ True Prophets serve without manipulating people for financial gain.
❌ False Prophets use their gifts to get rich and control others.

📖 2 Peter 2:1-3 – "Through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you."

Discussion Questions:
➡️ How can we discern whether a preacher is motivated by money?
➡️ What are signs of financial manipulation in ministries today?

7. Do They Show the Fruits and Gifts of the Holy Spirit?

✅ True Prophets bear the fruits of love, humility, and obedience.
❌ False Prophets may perform signs but lack godly character.

📖 Galatians 5:22-23 – "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith..."

📖 Matthew 24:24 – "For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders."

Discussion Questions:
➡️ Why should we not be moved by signs and wonders alone?
➡️ How do we discern between the Holy Spirit’s power and deception?

III. False Prophets in the End Times

Jesus warned about the rise of false prophets in the last days (Matthew 24:11).
Many will reject sound doctrine and follow teachers who preach what they want to hear (2 Timothy 4:3-4).
We must be spiritually discerning and remain rooted in God’s Word.

Group Discussion:
➡️ What are some modern signs that false prophets are increasing?
➡️ How can we guard ourselves from deception?

IV. Conclusion: Guarding Against False Prophets

Study the Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16)
Test every spirit (1 John 4:1)
Examine their fruits (Matthew 7:16)
Pray for discernment (James 1:5)

📖 Ephesians 4:11-14 – The purpose of true prophecy is to edify the Church and bring unity in faith.

Final Discussion:
➡️ How can we help others discern true from false prophets?
➡️ What practical steps can we take to ensure we are walking in the truth?

Application Steps for Personal Reflection

1. Strengthen Your Foundation in God’s Word

📖 Psalm 119:105 – "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."
✅ Action Step: Set aside daily time to study the Bible. Ask, "Does this teaching align with God’s Word?" before accepting any prophetic message.

🛠 Personal Reflection Question:
➡️ Do I rely more on prophetic words than on Scripture? How can I improve my Bible study habits?

2. Develop a Discerning Spirit Through Prayer

📖 James 1:5 – "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."
✅ Action Step: Before accepting a prophecy, pray for discernment. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal whether it is truly from God.

🛠 Personal Reflection Question:
➡️ Do I pray for discernment before believing in prophetic words, or do I accept them without testing?

3. Examine the Fruits of Those Who Prophesy

📖 Matthew 7:16 – "Ye shall know them by their fruits."
✅ Action Step: Observe the life, conduct, and character of those who claim to be prophets. Do they display love, humility, and holiness?

🛠 Personal Reflection Question:
➡️ Am I drawn to a prophecy because it sounds good, or do I consider the character of the person giving it?

4. Test Every Prophetic Word Before Acting on It

📖 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21 – "Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good."
✅ Action Step: Do not act on a prophecy immediately. Wait for confirmation through Scripture, prayer, and godly counsel.

🛠 Personal Reflection Question:
➡️ Have I ever made a decision based on a prophecy without testing it? What was the outcome?

5. Stay Humble and Teachable

📖 Proverbs 11:14 – "Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety."
✅ Action Step: Seek guidance from mature believers and church leaders when evaluating a prophecy.

🛠 Personal Reflection Question:
➡️ Do I seek wise counsel before accepting or acting on a prophecy, or do I rely solely on my own judgment?

6. Beware of Prophets Who Focus on Money and Personal Gain

📖 2 Peter 2:3 – "And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you."
✅ Action Step: Be cautious of those who charge for prophecies or manipulate people for financial gain.

🛠 Personal Reflection Question:
➡️ Have I ever supported or followed someone whose focus was financial gain? How did that affect my faith?

7. Be Led by the Holy Spirit, Not Emotions

📖 Romans 8:14 – "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God."
✅ Action Step: Avoid making major life decisions based solely on prophecy. Let the Holy Spirit lead you through prayer and confirmation.

🛠 Personal Reflection Question:
➡️ Do I let emotions influence my response to prophetic words, or do I seek confirmation from God?

Final Prayer for Discernment

🙏 Prayer Guide:

Thank God for His Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Ask for wisdom to discern truth from deception.
Pray for protection against false teachings.
Seek the courage to reject false prophecies, even when they sound appealing.
Commit to growing in biblical knowledge and spiritual discernment.

📖 John 16:13 – "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth."

📖 Discussion Prompts for Group Settings

1. The Role of Prophecy in the Church Today

🔹 Question: What is the biblical purpose of prophecy? How should it function in the church today?
📖 1 Corinthians 14:3 – "But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort."

2. Testing Prophetic Words

🔹 Question: What practical steps can we take to test whether a prophecy is truly from God?
📖 1 John 4:1 – "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God."

3. Discerning Between True and False Prophets

🔹 Question: What are some characteristics of true prophets vs. false prophets? How can we distinguish between the two?
📖 Matthew 7:15-16 – "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits."

4. Personal Experiences with Prophecy

🔹 Question: Have you ever received a prophecy? How did you test its accuracy and impact in your life?

5. Prophetic Accuracy vs. Personal Desires

🔹 Question: Why do people sometimes follow false prophecies even when they contradict Scripture? How can we guard our hearts against deception?
📖 2 Timothy 4:3-4 – "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears."

6. The Danger of Seeking Signs Over Scripture

🔹 Question: Why is it dangerous to rely too much on prophecies instead of seeking God through His Word?
📖 Matthew 12:39 – "An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign."

7. Accountability in Prophetic Ministry

🔹 Question: How important is spiritual accountability in the prophetic? How can the church ensure that prophecies are properly tested?
📖 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21 – "Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good."

8. The Role of Humility in the Prophetic Calling

🔹 Question: How should a true prophet handle correction if their prophecy is inaccurate?
📖 Proverbs 27:6 – "Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful."

9. When a Prophecy Doesn’t Come to Pass

🔹 Question: What should we do when a prophecy does not happen as expected? How can we respond biblically?
📖 Deuteronomy 18:22 – "When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken."

10. Encouraging True Prophetic Ministry

🔹 Question: How can we encourage and cultivate true prophetic gifts within the church while avoiding false teachings?
📖 Ephesians 4:11-12 – "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints."

📖 Journal Prompts for Personal Meditation

1. My Relationship with God's Word

✍️ Prompt: How often do I study the Bible to test prophetic words? Write about a time when Scripture helped you discern truth from error.
📖 Psalm 1:2 – "But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night."

2. Testing the Spirits

✍️ Prompt: Have I ever received a prophetic word that I later realized was not from God? How did I discern the truth?
📖 1 John 4:1 – "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God."

3. The Role of the Holy Spirit in My Life

✍️ Prompt: How do I sense the Holy Spirit guiding me when I hear prophetic messages? What steps can I take to be more sensitive to His leading?
📖 John 16:13 – "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth."

4. The Fruit of a True Prophet

✍️ Prompt: When I look at those who claim to be prophets today, do their lives reflect the character of Christ? What qualities do I notice?
📖 Matthew 7:20 – "Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them."

5. The Influence of Prophecy on My Decisions

✍️ Prompt: Have I ever made a decision based solely on a prophecy? Did it align with Scripture, prayer, and wise counsel? What was the result?
📖 Proverbs 3:5-6 – "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

6. Discerning Between True and False Prophets

✍️ Prompt: What are some warning signs of false prophets I need to be more aware of? Have I encountered any of these red flags?
📖 2 Peter 2:1 – "But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you."

7. My Personal Growth in Spiritual Discernment

✍️ Prompt: How have I grown in discernment over the past year? What areas still need improvement?
📖 Hebrews 5:14 – "But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."

8. Seeking God's Guidance Over Prophetic Words

✍️ Prompt: When I receive a prophecy, do I pray for confirmation before acting on it? How can I develop a stronger habit of seeking God's guidance first?
📖 1 Thessalonians 5:21 – "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good."

9. The Role of Accountability in Prophecy

✍️ Prompt: Do I have godly mentors or spiritual leaders who help me test prophetic words? How can I cultivate better accountability?
📖 Proverbs 11:14 – "Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety."

10. Walking in Obedience to God Rather Than Seeking Signs

✍️ Prompt: Am I more focused on hearing a prophetic word than obeying God’s revealed Word? How can I shift my focus to true obedience?
📖 Luke 11:28 – "Blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it."

Conclusion

God calls us to be vigilant in discerning prophecy, testing everything by His Word, and relying on the Holy Spirit for wisdom. Through group discussions and personal reflection, we can grow in understanding and apply biblical principles to recognize true prophetic ministry.

🙏 Challenge: This week, commit to studying Scripture and praying for discernment when encountering prophetic messages. Share your insights with the group!

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Thursday, 6 February 2025