How We Prophesy
Rob Perkins
When looking up the word "prophesy" in the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the first definition that appears is "to utter by or as if by divine inspiration." There are a number of instances in the Bible when men and women have dreams that show them the future or visions from God telling them what they must do. Moses and the burning bush (Exodus 3), The Lord calling Samuel within a dream (1 Samuel 3), and Deborah prophesying about the death of Sisera (Judges 4) are just a few of the prophecies mentioned in the Old Testament. There are even prophets who themselves fulfill prophecy. For example, there was John the Baptist, who prophesized that "... one who is more powerful than I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie" (Luke 3:16), was fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah, who said "A voice of one calling in the wilderness, Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him." (Luke 3:4).
In our modern world, the gift of prophesy takes on a different, but no less important, meaning. Delving further into the Merriam-Webster definitions for "prophesy," one finds the definition of "to give instruction in religious matters; preach." It is the ability to teach others how to bring the Lord into their lives, to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ, and to experience the blessings that come from sharing your soul with the Holy Spirit.
There are a number of ministries where persons with a gift of prophesy can build upon their gift and help our church. The Education for Ministry (EFM) program integrates theological knowledge into a Christian's daily life of ministry. The program delves into both the Old and New Testaments, as well as theology and church history. The newly-formed Small Groups Ministry seeks to build upon the spirituality and community of the church by exploring religious topics within small discussion groups. For those congregation members who know the joy that giving brings, the Stewardship Committee is always open for new members who are willing to promote the spiritual discipline of stewardship. Helping others to learn the gift of giving and share their time and talents helps to grow a church and keep it spiritually flourishing.
You do not have to wear clothes made of camel's hair and eat locusts and wild honey to prophesy. Instead, "(f)ollow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy." (1 Corinthians 14:1) All you need is a willingness to learn, an interest in sharing and discussing, and a knack for giving. If you have those traits, then please consider using your gifts to guide our church today.
