Subject: Two prophets? |
Bible Note: Prophecy (prophesy) takes on two distinct meanings, yet they overlap with purpose: the first referring to the Old Testament prophets (prophecy): · The inspired declaration of divine will and purpose. · As the term is used in mystical theology, it applies both to the prophecies of canonical Scripture and to private prophecies. Understood in its strict sense, it means the foreknowledge of future events, though it may sometimes apply to past events of which there no memory, and to present hidden things which cannot be known by the natural light of reason. · Correct/guide the path of the church and her people The second definition (prophesy), which I will refer to as New Testament prophets: · (Prophesy) To give instruction in religious matters, preach · (Preach) To urge acceptance or abandonment of an idea or course of action. · (Edify) To instruct and improve especially in moral and religious knowledge · (Evangelize) To preach the gospel to and/or to convert to Christianity · Correct/guide the path of the church and her people With that, the Prophets of the Old Testament received Divine Inspiration (knowledge and understanding) directly from God, with the purpose of keeping the people and the church on the correct path toward God. Prophets of the New Testament, serve the same purpose. However the source of their knowledge is from the teachings of Jesus and, their understanding of the teachings of Jesus, is clarified and enhanced with guidance from both, the Holy Spirit and the Church. In Paul’s letters to the Corinthians and Timothy (1 Corinthians 14, 1 Timothy), he spoke of the gift of prophesy whose purpose was to build up the church. Expanding on this, the role of a prophet of the New Testament has multiple responsibilities, which include: evangelize, preach, edify, moralize, guide, instruct and educate other members of our community. This is conveyed or passed along by his words, as well as by his actions. The focal point of the efforts of a prophet, is to assist his fellow man towards a stronger, more positive, direct and personal relationship with God through Jesus. And, in order to aid in the first, help effect a fuller understanding as to the true meaning, purpose and ways of the church – as an instrument created by Jesus, with the purpose of guiding man to Jesus. In addition to basic knowledge, the following are pit-falls of which any prophet will always need to be conscious: · Speak and act with humility. Lack of humility leads to loss of focus, accuracy and assistance to the people being served – a prophet would then be speaking only for his own benefit. · Having the wisdom to give the correct and proper guidance to help enhance an individual’s devotion to God without misleading or creating debate or confusion. · Conveying the message in a manner which will be understood, without alienating · Continue to be conscious that his words and actions are viewed as representative of the Church, his ministry, and Christianity and that his words and actions can have a negative influence more powerful, than his other efforts can have as a positive influence. · To be conscious of the phase which each person is at, within their faith development · To constantly insure that his words are, in fact, the truth and not just an opinion, conjecture or rambling. · Not to lose sight of his role and responsibilities in proper service to God. Brian |