Where Are the Prophets? A Call to Embrace the Prophetic Voice

Where Are the Prophets? A Call to Embrace the Prophetic Voice:

We live in a world saturated with voices. Every day, we’re bombarded with opinions, analyses, and pronouncements on everything from politics to pop culture. Within the Christian community, we have a multitude of pastors, teachers, and leaders guiding and nurturing congregations. And that’s a good thing! The pastoral role, as exemplified by the Good Shepherd, is vital for the health and growth of the Church. But something else seems to be missing.

The Abundance of Pastors, the Scarcity of Prophets

Have you ever considered the sheer number of times the word “prophet” appears in the Bible? Hundreds of times (over 500 times), we encounter these individuals, called by God to speak truth to power, to challenge the status quo, and to offer a vision of God’s will for His people. From Moses to Elijah, from Isaiah to Jeremiah, the prophets played a crucial role in shaping the spiritual landscape of Israel and preparing the way for the Messiah.

Now, contrast that with the word “pastor.” While the concept of shepherding and caring for God’s flock is woven throughout Scripture, the specific word “pastor” appears remarkably and profoundly few times. This isn’t to diminish the importance of pastors – far from it! Their role is essential. But it does raise a question: If the Bible emphasizes the prophetic voice so significantly, why does it seem so muted in our contemporary Christian experience?

The Biblical Emphasis on Prophecy

We have thousands of pastors, and praise God for them! They diligently care for their congregations, preach the Word, and provide spiritual guidance. But where are the prophets? Where are the voices that challenge us to look beyond our comfortable routines and confront the injustices of our time? Where are the individuals who dare to speak God’s uncomfortable truths, even when they are unpopular?

As 1 Corinthians 14:3 states, “But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.” The prophetic voice builds up, encourages, and consoles. It’s not about mere prediction but about revealing God’s heart and will.

Our Discomfort with the Prophetic Voice

Perhaps the answer lies in our own discomfort with the prophetic voice. Prophets often disrupt our preconceived notions. They challenge our comfortable assumptions. They call us to repentance and radical obedience. Their words can be unsettling. It’s much easier to listen to a message that affirms what we already believe, that soothes our anxieties, and that doesn’t demand too much from us.

Amos 3:8 asks, “The lion hath roared, who will not fear? the Lord GOD hath spoken, who can but prophesy?” The prophet’s call is not a choice, but a divine imperative.

The Necessity of the Prophetic Voice

The Bible makes it clear that the prophetic voice is not optional. It’s essential. The prophets were not always popular in their own time. They were often persecuted, rejected, and even killed. Yet, their words remain, echoing through the centuries, reminding us of God’s unwavering love and His unwavering call to justice.

Deuteronomy 18:18-19 declares, “I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I command him. And it shall come to pass, whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him.” God Himself promises to raise up prophets.

A Call to Rediscover the Prophetic

It’s time for the Church to rediscover the prophetic dimension of its calling. We need to create space for those who hear God’s voice and dare to speak it, even when it’s difficult. We need to cultivate a culture that values truth-telling, even when it’s uncomfortable. We need to embrace the prophetic voice, not silence it.

Let us pray for the raising up of prophets in our day. Let us pray for the discernment to recognize them, the courage to listen to them, and the humility to respond to their message. May we be a Church that not only nurtures its flock but also listens for the voice of the One who calls us to be a light to the nations, a voice that often comes through the mouths of prophets?