Subject: Are you truly searching for a prophet? |
Bible Note: Dear Joe! Greetings, my friend, in the name of Jesus! I couldn't agree with you more! (except that the modern punishment for modern false-prophecy is not quite so extreme! :-)) Indeed, these Old Testament qualifications for prophets should serve as a deterrent for hasty prophecy! Sadly, they do not. I, too, have witnessed the 'run-of-the-mouth' prophecies, endless, pointless and Spirit-less. I have also heard the 'blessing upon blessing' prophecies that are so exciting to hear, but are only vapor. I have heard the 'Alterenate Revelations (sic)' prophecies that claim detailed information about the 'End Times.' I've even heard the 'magical, mystical' prophecies that no one understands, but seem soooooo deep. So what do we do? Deny prophecy as described in I Corinthians 14:3? "But one who prophesies speaks to men for edification and exhortation and consolation." (NASB) If we were to do away with anything that men abuse, then there would be no drugs (penicilin?), food (McDonalds? MandMs?), television (any sitcom!) or forums. :-) Virtually every good thing has been abused by sinful men, Christian and non-, including the Bible and the church. My answer to this dilemma is that all men who desire to serve God and His people in the gifts and ministries MUST submit to the qualifications set forth in the pastoral epistles. (it seems to me that too many are claiming 'waivers' in this area! :-)) "Do not be hasty in word or impulsive in thought to bring up a matter in the presence of God. For God is in heaven and you are on the earth; therefore let your words be few." Ecclesiates 5:2 NASB. "When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, But he who restrains his lips is wise. The tongue of the righteous is as choice silver, The heart of the wicked is worth little." Proverbs 10:19,20 NASB. Blessings in Christ Jesus, charis |