What Do I Do When I Receive Prophetic Words?

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In the NT (New Testament), there is both the Gift of Prophecy, that all may aspire to (1Cor 12), and the Office of a Prophet. Personal Prophetic words are very Scriptural, when coming from recognized ministers in the church who are released in the prophetic ministry and who have a track - record of accuracy and accountability. There are several examples in the NT. Philip received a word for the Ethiopian in Acts 8:30. Peter received a word for Cornelius in Acts 10:20. The Prophet Agabus predicted a famine in Acts 11:28 which was a word for the whole Church. In Acts 21:10, Agabus warned Paul of his coming arrest. In Acts 27:22, Paul gives a prophetic warning about the shipwreck, yet the saving of souls.

                The context of what we want to address is the person who has received a prophetic word for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort. (1Cor 14:3)

                A word of prophecy can be a source of tremendous blessing and encouragement, and an event that can be pivotal for your faith, to believe God for greater and newer things. But, there can also be opportunities for great misunderstandings and difficulties because of several different factors. We want to discuss some of these factors and offer some Scriptural guidelines, safeguards, and cautions, so that you will get the greatest benefit from the Prophetic ministry. The purpose of prophecy is to build up, comfort, edify and exhort according to

1 Cor 14:3

3 But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men. (NKJ)

Prophetic Words in the Church

                1 Cor 12:10 teaches that the Holy Spirit gives different gifts to different people as He chooses. The gifts are different, just as the parts of the human body are different and perform different functions. We are taught in Scripture to eagerly desire the spiritual gifts and especially that we might prophecy so that the whole Church benefits. Prophecy when given to the whole Church. is to build up and encourage the Believers  (1Cor 14:22) It must all be done for the strengthening of the church - God's people (1Cor 14:26). Usually 2-3 prophecies in a public meeting for the church are enough, and they should be carefully weighed by the leadership (1Cor 14:29).

                In 1Cor 14:31 we are taught that we can all prophesy in turn, so that we can learn and be encouraged. Those with the gift of prophecy are to be self controlled, and not "taken over" as if they were not responsible for their words. This is the reason we only release those that we know and are in relationship with.

Personal Prophetic Words

                The Scriptures place concern on testing prophets and prophecies. Who is the person who is prophesying over you? Are they prophesying in a corner or publicly for the others to hear and judge? Do you know the person? Does the person have anything to gain from the prophecy? There are those in the Church that we have recognized as being loving and stable people who we encourage to prophesy. If you have doubts or concerns about individuals that are prophesying, please bring it to the attention of the leadership.

                On testing prophetic words, we do this by the Spirit and by the Word. Since we "prophesy in part" (1Cor 13:9), no prophecy or prophet is infallible or equal in authority to the Bible. Prophetic Guidelines

1Thes 5:21

21 Test all things; hold fast what is good. (NKJ)

1381  dokimazo-test or prove

1) to test, to examine, to prove, to scrutinize (to see whether a thing is genuine or not), as metals

2) to recognize as genuine after examination, to approve, to deem worthy

·         Don't stifle or despise prophecy, but TEST IT!

(1Thes 5:19-21) Even when the prophecy is given in words or a style you don't care for, or through a person to whom you may not relate well, consider their words as a possible word from God yet spoken by man (1Peter 4:10-11).

·         Does the Prophecy Conform to Scripture?

The Spirit of God will always agree with His previous revelation in Scripture.

·         Does The Prophecy "Bear Witness" in Your Spirit?

(John 10:2-5) Usually a word will come to confirm what God has already spoken to you in various ways. It will confirm in you a certain direction and build your faith.

·         If There Is An Element of Prediction, Does It Come True?

·         Is There Peace and Joy in The Spirit, Even if the Word Is A Challenge?

·         Is It Confirmed By Two or Three Witnesses?

·         Does It Build Up People and Encourage or Does It Condemn And Manipulate?

·         Does The Spirit Of The Prophet Represent Christ?

·         Are they humble and accountable?

·         What Is The Long Term Consistent Fruit in the Life Of The Prophet or "prophetic person" and their prophesies?

·         Wait On God For Further Clarification and Clarity.

Sometimes a word requires further guidance for the interpretation and timing or for clarity. Pray over the word and seek guidance in the Bible and from those in leadership. Pray for further confirmation, especially where the prophecy involves change and a major impact on your life. The primary way this comes is through leadership! If you aren't sure about the word, put it on the shelf for now. Beware of "Do or Die"  prophecies.

·         When You Are Clear On The Interpretation, Then Act In Faith.

Once you agree that the word is from God, pray that He will fulfill the prophecy in your life. Have an attitude of expectancy.

Immature Prophets

                Sometimes immature people try to gain recognition in the Body of Christ through the use of their gifting. We need to be more interested in the character of the person than in their giftedness. Giftedness must flow out of wholeness, maturity and integrity. Sometimes a "would be" prophet will do an end run around all the safeguards in the church and give you a word in the parking lot, or some other private place. AVOID THIS LIKE THE PLAGUE!!!!!

About Correction

Bringing correction is something that is reserved for the leadership, and not for those beginning in prophecy or intercession. The church is called to work together as a body, so those in leadership have the responsibility of keeping it all healthy. Beware of corrective, judgmental or condemning prophecy as it would not generally be the Lord. There are times He would correct us through prophecy, but usually as a last resort. Run it by the pastor if you have any questions or doubts. Remember, you are the one directly responsible to the Lord, to hear from Him and to live your life in the light of what He is personally saying to you.          

Those Who Receive Personal Ministry Should Go Home And Review Their Prophecy With Their Pastor or House Prophet!!

This allows each one who has received a valid word to submit it to those in authority over you to help determine the proper timing for fulfilling what was spoken.  It also allows another objective voice to speak into your life, enabling you to truly hear what God was speaking without preconceptions and defense mechanisms.  It should be noted that personal prophecy never replaces the need for pastoral counsel and oversight.  And certainly a personal prophecy should not be taken home and thrown on the pastor's desk as justification of your calling (or any other situation) which you feel defensive about.  Good sheep love their shepherd and will look to him/her for guidance.  Personal prophecy does nothing to change this, and in fact should enhance it.

Scriptures To Consider

·         1 Cor 14:1-5 …desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy... 3 But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men. 4 ...but he who prophesies edifies the church. 5 I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied...,(NKJ)

·         1 Cor 12:1,10,28

·         1 Cor 13:2

2 And though I have the gift of prophecy..., but  have not love, I am nothing. (NKJ)

·         1 Cor 13:13