Gift of Prophecy
You scored high on “prophecy;” it’s one of your primary supernatural orientations (S.O.). The supernatural orientations are based on the list of spiritual gifts or “graces” (charisma) found in 1 Corinthians 12: 8-10. This survey may describe what you already know, or it may help you understand a gift you operate in but weren’t aware it was a spiritual gift or supernatural orientation. For example, you might function in the gift of prophecy but didn’t realize it until now.
Definition
This spiritual gift “prophecy” is found in 1 Cor. 12:10 and is translated from the Greek word: propheteia. It is declaring the heartbeat of God to the world for the purpose of edification, strengthening and comforting. (1 Cor. 14:3, Rom. 12:6). Paul speaks of this gift as if it were quite common. (1 Cor 14:5)
Function and Impact
It is not a skill, aptitude, award or talent. It is the actual speaking forth of words given by the Spirit of God for strengthening others, encouraging them, and comforting them. It is never a discouraging or negative word. There is power in our words. (Pov. 18:21) Prophecy is speaking Gods loving plans to bring hope to believers and non-believers (1 Cor. 14:24-25).
Most prophesying statements do not contain predictions about the future. Prophecy declares the immediate, immanent word of God and is given to build up, bring healing and stir up the people of God. Prophetic words can draw people closer to God in a powerful way. A prophetic word can be received as an impression, a set of inner words, a mental picture or a spontaneous declaration.
You don’t have to use King James language and get all wordy and weird. When you feel impressed that God is giving you a prophetic word for someone, say something like “I feel God is saying this…” Don’t present the word in language that makes it an absolute. Check with people to see if the word is accurate or not. You may get only a partial word at first. Share that and ask God for more, or maybe the person you are ministering to will get the rest.
On an individual level, the gift of prophecy calls out the treasure (gifts, destiny, calling, talents, what makes them special) in the one being ministered to and lets them know the specific thoughts of God toward them. People giving prophecy are engaging with God’s heart for the other. They are calling out the gold in the person for encouragement and to bring out the best in people. When human comfort itself is not enough we need God’s loving words to touch our deepest fears and doubts. Prophetic insight brings revelation and exposes thoughts that help people realize that God loves them personally.
Prophecy can have great significance to the hearer and can impart hope to move forward into the fullness of life that God has for us. This gift is not just for the church. Paul describes the prophetic impacting unbelievers so that they now believe and declare, "God is truly here among you." (1 Cor. 14:24-25)
Everyone may prophesy but only a few are called to the office and recognized to be a prophet or prophetess by their church. Prophets equip the church and carry an anointing to release others into the prophetic. Prophets will perform the general functions of this gift but may also be used by God to bring correction, direction and the foretelling of the future. Prophets judge prophetic words given by others in the body of Christ. (1 Thess. 5:19-22, 1 Jn. 4:1)
Biblical Example
The church in Antioch had prophets that listened for God’s current direction and acted on it. “...the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” (Acts 13:1-4)
Jesus called Simon, Peter, and spoke God’s prophetic destiny over his life as a leader in the church. “I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church” (Matt. 16:13-19)
The elders laid their hands and spoke as they were led by the Spirit to encourage and empower their young leader Timothy. “Do not neglect the spiritual gift you received through the prophecy spoken over you when the elders of the church laid their hands on you.” (1 Tim. 4:14)
How to Grow in This Gift
Learning to hear God is a process that takes daily attention. Intimacy with Jesus leads us to be sensitive to His voice and His leading toward others. Practice being alone with God each day. Ask God questions frequently through the day. Listen with a journal to write down your thoughts or impressions. Test out your words with people who will give you loving feedback.
The main way to grow is to exercise the gift!