Beyond Having a Pastor: Why We All Need a Prophet in Our Lives

Beyond Having a Pastor: Why We All Need a Prophet in Our Lives

Ephesians 4:11-12 paints a vivid picture of the church’s structure, outlining the fivefold ministry: “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.”

We readily grasp the role of the pastor, the shepherd who guides and cares for the flock. But what about the prophet? Often, the prophetic ministry is shrouded in mystery, sometimes even fear. Yet, if we acknowledge the necessity of pastoral care, shouldn’t we also recognize the vital role of the prophet in our lives?

The Need for Spiritual Guidance Beyond Pastoring

We understand that pastors provide essential (and non-optional) guidance, teaching, and support. They are the shepherds who tend to the flock, offering comfort and direction. A life lived without pastoral care is an impoverished life to be sure. However, the prophetic ministry serves a distinct, yet complementary, purpose. The prophet, according to scripture, speaks forth God’s heart, offering insight, correction, and encouragement that can lead to breakthroughs.

Biblical Foundations for the Prophetic Ministry

The Bible is replete with examples of prophets who significantly impacted individuals and nations.

• Edification, Exhortation, and Comfort: 1 Corinthians 14:3 states, “But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.” This verse highlights the primary function of prophecy: to build up, encourage, and console. This is a need for all believers, not just a select few.
• Revealing God’s Heart: Amos 3:7 reminds us, “Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.” Prophets serve as conduits for God’s revelation, offering insights into His plans and purposes. This revelation is often necessary for navigating life’s complexities and making informed decisions.
• Guidance and Direction: Proverbs 29:18 (KJV) states “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” While this refers to God’s word, Prophets often delivered God’s vision for individuals and communities. This vision is vital for spiritual growth and fulfilling one’s purpose.
• Correction and Reproof: While comfort is a major aspect, Prophets also bring correction. “Reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” 2 Timothy 4:2. Sometimes we need a spiritual mirror to see areas we need to change.

Why We All Need a Prophet in Our Lives

Just as we benefit from the consistent care of a pastor, we also need the timely insights and encouragement that a prophetic voice can provide. Imagine having someone who can:

• Speak words of encouragement when you feel discouraged.
• Offer clarity when you face difficult decisions.
• Provide insight into God’s plans for your life.
• Deliver a timely word of correction, leading to personal growth.
• Offer comfort and hope in times of distress.
• Help you break through spiritual barriers.

It is not about having a personal fortune teller. It is about having access to the gifts that God has given to the body of Christ.

Finding a Prophetic Voice

It’s crucial to discern genuine prophetic ministry from false prophecy. 1 John 4:1 urges us to “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”²

• Seek out those who consistently demonstrate a heart for God and a commitment to His Word.
• Test their words against Scripture.
• Observe the fruit of their ministry.
• Pray for discernment.

Why not conceive of a ministry experience where everyone will have a specific person labeled as “their prophet?” All believers should seek to have a prophetic ear and be open to God’s prophetic voice to the vessel that God brings into their lives. We should also seek to be a prophetic voice to those around us through the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Reflect and Review

Take a moment to consider your own spiritual journey. Have you experienced the edifying, exhorting, and comforting aspects of the prophetic ministry? How has God spoken to you through prophetic words, whether directly or through others? Reflect on the times you felt God’s direction, and consider if a prophetic voice played a role. Review the scriptures provided, and pray for understanding.

Call to Action:

• Pray for discernment: Ask God to help you recognize genuine prophetic ministry.
• Study the scriptures: Deepen your understanding of the prophetic gift and its role in the church.
• Seek godly counsel: Discuss your questions about prophecy with trusted spiritual leaders.
• Be open to God’s voice: Cultivate a heart that is receptive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
• Exercise the gifts: if you feel God has given you any prophetic gifts, seek to exercise them in a way that builds up the body of Christ.

Conclusion

The prophetic ministry, when exercised in accordance with Scripture, is a powerful tool for edification, encouragement, and breakthrough. It’s not about seeking sensational experiences but about aligning ourselves with God’s heart and hearing His voice. Just as we recognize the importance of pastoral care, let us also embrace the vital role of the prophetic ministry. By seeking and discerning genuine prophetic voices, and by cultivating our own ability to hear God’s voice, we can experience the fullness of what God intends for us.