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Sermon on
Definition of Prophecy

 

1. Understanding the Concept of Prophecy

1.1 Prophecy as God's Revelation: Prophecy is a divine revelation from God, a message that God communicates to His people through His chosen prophets. It is not a product of human will or imagination but a divine inspiration from the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:21

1.2 Prophecy as God's Revelation: Prophecy is not a product of human will or imagination, but a divine revelation from God. It is God's way of communicating His will, plans, and purposes to humanity. Divine (Revelation (2 Peter 1 21) 2 Peter 1:21

1.3 Prophecy as Foretelling and Forthtelling: Prophecy involves both foretelling (predicting future events) and forthtelling (proclaiming God's message). It is not just about predicting the future, but also about speaking God's truth into the present. Foretelling and Forthtelling (Deuteronomy 18 22) Deuteronomy 18:22

2. The Role of Prophets in Prophecy

2.1 Prophets as God's Spokespersons: Prophets are God's chosen spokespersons. They are called and commissioned by God to deliver His messages to His people. They speak not on their own authority but on God's authority. Jeremiah 1:5

2.2 Prophets as Watchmen: Prophets also serve as watchmen over God's people. They warn the people of impending danger and call them to repentance and obedience. They are God's instruments for calling His people back to Him. Ezekiel 33:7

2.3 Prophets as God's Spokespersons: Prophets are chosen by God to deliver His messages. They are God's mouthpiece, speaking on His behalf to His people. God's Spokespersons Jeremiah 1:5

2.4 Prophets as Watchmen: Prophets also serve as watchmen, warning the people of impending danger if they continue in their disobedience. They call people to repentance and obedience to God. Watchmen Ezekiel 33:7

3. The Nature of Biblical Prophecy

3.1 Prophecy is Infallible: Biblical prophecy is infallible because it comes from God who is infallible. It is completely reliable and trustworthy. It will always come to pass because God is faithful and His word never fails. Isaiah 55:11

3.2 Prophecy is Conditional: Biblical prophecy is often conditional, depending on the response of the people. God's promises and warnings are often contingent on the obedience or disobedience of His people. Jeremiah 18:7-10

4. The Purpose of Prophecy

4.1 Prophecy for Edification, Exhortation, and Comfort: The purpose of prophecy is not to satisfy our curiosity about the future but to edify, exhort, and comfort God's people. It is meant to build up the church and encourage believers in their faith. 1 Corinthians 14:3

4.2 Prophecy for Repentance and Obedience: Prophecy is also meant to call God's people to repentance and obedience. It serves as a warning to those who are living in sin and a call to return to God and His ways. Jonah 3:4-10

4.3 Prophecy for Edification, Exhortation, and Comfort: Prophecy is given for the edification (building up), exhortation (encouragement), and comfort of the church. It helps believers grow in their faith and live in obedience to God. Edification, Exhortation, and Comfort (1 Corinthians 14 3) 1 Corinthians 14:3

4.4 Prophecy for Revealing God's Plans: Prophecy also reveals God's plans for the future, giving hope and assurance to believers. It assures us that God is in control and His plans will come to pass. Revealing God's Plans Jeremiah 29:11

5. The Fulfillment of Prophecy

5.1 Prophecy Fulfilled in Christ: Many of the Old Testament prophecies were fulfilled in Christ. He is the fulfillment of God's promises and the embodiment of God's word. Matthew 5:17

5.2 Prophecy Fulfilled in the End Times: Some prophecies are yet to be fulfilled in the end times. These prophecies give us hope and assurance of God's ultimate victory and the consummation of His kingdom. Revelation 22:20

6. The Authenticity of Prophecy

6.1 Prophecy Must Align with Scripture: True prophecy must align with Scripture. If a prophecy contradicts the Bible, it is not from God. Align with Scripture Isaiah 8:20

6.2 Prophecy Must Come to Pass: A true prophecy must come to pass. If a prophecy does not come true, it is not from God. Must Come to Pass Deuteronomy 18:22

7. The Importance of Discernment in Prophecy

7.1 Testing the Spirits: Believers are called to test the spirits to discern whether a prophecy is from God. We must not blindly accept every prophecy, but examine it in light of Scripture. Testing the Spirits 1 John 4:1

7.2 Seeking Wisdom from God: In discerning prophecy, we must seek wisdom from God. He gives wisdom generously to those who ask. Seeking Wisdom from God James 1:5

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