The Importance of the Gift of Prophecy
“Proclaim this word: This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘I am very jealous for Jerusalem and Zion, and I am very angry with the nations that feel secure.’” (Zech 1:14-15)
Human ideas are very powerful: Leonado da Vinci’s ideas symbolized the power of invention to transcend human limitations; Adolf Hitler’s ideas showed the power to destroy. Indeed, left on his own, man very easily destroys himself with his great ideas and words. Kings have wished they could eat their words after realizing how disastrous; astute philosphers have repented in the evening of their lives, showing that something still lacks even from man’s greatest ideas. Is that when comes to pass Paul’s adage that “the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom”? What is God saying? We need God to speak.
So what is prophecy? When a person is inspired by the Holy Spirit and speaks what God is saying, that is prophecy. From Strong’s Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries, to prophesy is to foretell events or to speak (or sing) under inspiration (in prediction or simple discourse). The one who prophesies says, “thus saith the Lord…” or “this is what the Lord says…” His words are not the production of his own spirit, but come from a higher source. He is at the same time a seer who sees things that do not lie in the domain of natural sight, or who hears things which human ears do not ordinarily receive. When relating with God, you don’t want Him to be like that moody friend of yours who keeps quiet on you for weeks and keeps you anxious and guessing; neither is God like that talkative neighbour who rattles on and on without giving you chance to say a little something also. God observes, listens and He speaks lovingly whether gently for soothing or harshly for correction.
The importance of the the gift of prophecy has been well articulated by Paul, as he ranked highest: the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort; as a result of prophesying, people’s secrets can be laid bare, unbelievers can be convicted of their sin, acknowledge God’s presence, and perhaps turn to Him (1Cor 14:1-25). Prophecy can also cause a physical transformation, as was the case in the post-exile days when Zechariah began to preach: Jews that had returned from Babylon back to Jerusalem had for sixteen years lived in confusion over the way forward. It was difficult for them to interpret God’s earlier promises in the face of current discouragement and opposition as they made efforts to rebuild the Temple; this project actually stalled for over fifteen years! Prophecy by Zechariah dispersed their confusion; they gained new courage and strength for the nobel work and indeed proceeded to complete it in the next few years.
Our ever advancing human wisdom will destroy us if we do not hear God speak. Are you in confusion, or stagnant in development? Or do you desire to see unbelievers saved? Prophecy is the answer. We will continue from here next week.
God bless you all!