Uncovering the Mysteries of the School of the Prophets in the Bible
As a prophet called by God, I have always been captivated by the biblical accounts of the schools of the prophets. These ancient institutions were more than just centers of learning; they were powerhouses of prophetic impartation, spiritual discipline, and kingdom impact. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the history, purpose, and legacy of the schools of the prophets, exploring ten key questions that shed light on their significance for us today.
Origins and Founder
The first mention of a school of the prophets in the Bible is found in 1 Samuel 19:20, where we learn that the prophet Samuel established a community of prophets in Ramah. This marked a significant shift in the prophetic ministry, transitioning from a primarily individual calling to a collective, mentorship-based model.
But was Samuel truly the founder of the first school of the prophets? While he is certainly the first to be explicitly associated with such a community in Scripture, some scholars suggest that prophetic schools may have existed even earlier, perhaps dating back to the time of Moses or the judges. Regardless of their exact origins, it is clear that Samuel played a pivotal role in formalizing and popularizing the concept of prophetic schools.
Purpose and Function
So what exactly was the purpose and function of these schools of the prophets? At their core, these institutions were designed to train and equip a new generation of prophetic voices. They provided a structured environment for aspiring prophets to develop their gifts, grow in spiritual maturity, and learn to discern the voice of God.
But the schools of the prophets were more than just academic institutions. They were vibrant communities of worship, prayer, and ministry. Students would gather regularly to seek the face of God, often accompanied by musical instruments and prophetic utterances (1 Samuel 10:5). The schools were also places of supernatural encounter, where students would witness and participate in miraculous signs and wonders.
Moreover, the schools of the prophets served as a prophetic voice to the nation of Israel. At a time when the people were often led astray by idolatry and compromise, these communities of faith stood as beacons of light, calling the nation back to the ways of God. They played a crucial role in preserving and perpetuating the prophetic tradition, ensuring that the word of the Lord would continue to be heard and heeded.
Curriculum and Training
One of the most intriguing questions about the schools of the prophets is what kind of curriculum or training methods they employed. While the Bible does not give us a detailed syllabus, we can glean some insights from the stories of the prophets themselves.
At the heart of the prophetic training was a deep immersion in the scriptures. Students would study the Torah, the Psalms, and the writings of earlier prophets, seeking to understand the heart and ways of God. This grounding in the word was essential for discerning true prophetic revelation from false prophecies.
But the training went beyond mere head knowledge. Students were also taught to cultivate a life of prayer, worship, and fasting. They learned to listen for the still, small voice of God and to respond in obedience. They were trained in the art of prophetic symbolism, learning to communicate divine messages through actions, parables, and object lessons.
Perhaps most importantly, the schools of the prophets emphasized the importance of character formation. Aspiring prophets were taught to walk in humility, integrity, and righteousness, knowing that their lives must reflect the message they proclaimed. They learned to submit to authority, to serve others selflessly, and to endure hardship and persecution for the sake of the gospel.
Locations and Qualifications
The schools of the prophets were scattered throughout the land of Israel, with notable mentions of schools in Ramah (1 Samuel 19:18-24), Bethel (2 Kings 2:3), Jericho (2 Kings 2:5), and Gilgal (2 Kings 4:38). These locations were often associated with significant prophetic activity or miraculous events.
But what did it take to be accepted into these prestigious institutions? The Bible does not give us explicit entrance requirements, but we can infer some qualifications from the stories of the prophets.
First and foremost, students of the prophetic schools had to have a clear calling from God. This was not a career path one chose for oneself, but a divine commission that was recognized and affirmed by the prophetic community.
Additionally, aspiring prophets had to demonstrate a life of purity, devotion, and obedience. They were expected to be set apart for God’s service, willing to leave behind the comforts and attachments of the world. In some cases, such as with Elisha, this meant making a radical break with one’s former life and possessions (1 Kings 19:19-21).
Finally, students of the prophetic schools had to be teachable and submissive to authority. They had to be willing to sit under the tutelage of seasoned prophets, to receive correction and discipline, and to serve humbly in whatever capacity was required.
Prophetic Mentorship
One of the most powerful examples of prophetic mentorship in the Bible is the relationship between Elijah and Elisha. Elijah, the fiery prophet of confrontation, took Elisha under his wing and trained him to be his successor. Their relationship was marked by deep loyalty, unwavering commitment, and a hunger for spiritual impartation.
We see this mentorship in action when Elijah is taken up to heaven in a whirlwind (2 Kings 2:1-18). Elisha refuses to leave his mentor’s side, even when urged to stay behind. He recognizes that Elijah’s mantle represents a transfer of prophetic authority and anointing, and he is determined to receive it. When Elijah is finally taken up, Elisha cries out, “My father, my father, the chariots of Israel and its horsemen!” (v. 12). This heartfelt cry reveals the depth of their bond and the significance of their relationship.
The story of Elijah and Elisha highlights the importance of mentorship in the prophetic ministry. It reminds us that the passing on of prophetic gifts and wisdom is not just a matter of classroom instruction, but of life-on-life impartation. It challenges us to seek out spiritual fathers and mothers who can guide us, shape us, and release us into our divine destiny.
Women in Prophetic Ministry
While the schools of the prophets are often associated with male figures like Samuel, Elijah, and Elisha, it is important to recognize that women also played significant roles in the prophetic ministry.
The Bible mentions several female prophets, such as Miriam (Exodus 15:20), Deborah (Judges 4:4), Huldah (2 Kings 22:14), and Anna (Luke 2:36). These women were mightily used by God to speak his word, lead his people, and even advise kings.
Although the Bible does not explicitly mention women attending the schools of the prophets, it is not unreasonable to assume that they may have been present in some capacity. After all, if God could anoint and empower women as prophets, surely he could also call them to be trained and equipped alongside their male counterparts.
Regardless of whether women were formally enrolled in prophetic schools, the stories of female prophets in Scripture remind us that God’s call and gifting are not limited by gender. They challenge us to create space for women to be trained, affirmed, and released into their prophetic destinies, just as men are.
Modern Prophetic Training
As we study the schools of the prophets in the Bible, it is natural to wonder how their principles and practices might apply to prophetic training in the modern church.
While we may not have formal prophetic schools in the same way that ancient Israel did, there are certainly parallels we can draw. Many churches and ministries offer courses, conferences, or mentoring programs designed to equip believers in the prophetic gifts. These training opportunities often emphasize the same core elements that we see in the biblical schools: grounding in the word, cultivation of character, practice of spiritual disciplines, and hands-on ministry experience.
But perhaps the most important lesson we can learn from the schools of the prophets is the centrality of relationship and community. These schools were not just about imparting information or skills; they were about forging deep, covenant bonds between spiritual fathers and sons, between teachers and disciples, between fellow warriors in the faith.
In our modern context, this means that prophetic training must be rooted in the local church, in the context of authentic, accountable relationships. It means that we must prioritize mentorship, discipleship, and the passing on of our prophetic inheritance to the next generation. It means that we must create a culture of honor, submission, and mutual edification, where iron sharpens iron and the whole body is built up in love.
The Role of Worship
One aspect of prophetic training that is often overlooked is the role of worship and music. Yet throughout the Bible, we see a clear connection between prophetic utterance and musical expression.
When Saul encounters a group of prophets in 1 Samuel 10, they are described as coming down from the high place with harp, tambourine, flute, and lyre before them, prophesying as they went (v. 5). Later, when Elisha is called to prophesy to the kings of Israel, Judah, and Edom, he asks for a musician to play, and as the musician plays, the hand of the Lord comes upon him (2 Kings 3:15).
These stories suggest that music and worship were not just accompaniments to prophetic ministry, but catalysts for it. The melodies and rhythms of worship have a way of attuning our hearts to the frequency of heaven, opening us up to receive divine revelation and utterance.
In the modern church, we must not underestimate the power of worship in cultivating a prophetic culture. We must create spaces where the presence of God is prioritized, where creative expressions of adoration and intercession are welcomed, and where the prophetic song of the Lord can be released.
The Calling of a Prophet
Finally, as we reflect on the schools of the prophets, we must grapple with the question of what it truly means to be called as a prophet.
Were all students in the prophetic schools destined to become prophets in the formal sense? The Bible does not give us a clear answer. Some, like Elisha, clearly took on the mantle of prophetic leadership, while others may have served in more supportive or localized roles.
What we do know is that the call of a prophet is a weighty and solemn thing. It is not a self-appointed title or a glamorous career path, but a burden and a responsibility that must be carried with fear and trembling. True prophets are not motivated by personal ambition or a desire for prominence, but by a burning passion for the glory of God and the welfare of his people.
At the same time, we must remember that the prophetic anointing is not just for a select few, but for the whole body of Christ. Joel 2:28 promises that in the last days, God will pour out his Spirit on all flesh, and our sons and daughters will prophesy. This means that every believer has the potential to hear God’s voice, to receive divine revelation, and to speak forth his word with power and authority.
As we seek to walk in our prophetic calling, whether as recognized prophets or as Spirit-filled believers, let us do so with humility, integrity, and a deep reverence for the God who speaks. Let us be diligent in our study of the word, fervent in our pursuit of his presence, and faithful in our stewardship of the gifts he has entrusted to us. And let us never forget that the ultimate goal of all prophetic ministry is to point people to Jesus, the Living Word, and to advance his kingdom on the earth.
Conclusion
The schools of the prophets in the Bible were more than just historical curiosities or ancient institutions of learning. They were dynamic, Spirit-empowered communities that shaped the course of Israel’s history and left an indelible mark on the prophetic tradition.
As we study their example and apply their principles in our own context, my prayer is that we would see a new generation of prophetic voices raised up in the church. May we be a people who prioritize the presence of God, who hunger for his word, and who walk in the power and authority of his Spirit. May we be a prophetic community that speaks truth to power, brings healing to the nations, and prepares the way for the return of our King.
I believe that as we faithfully steward the lessons of the schools of the prophets, we will see a prophetic reformation sweep across the globe, a movement of consecrated messengers who will usher in the greatest harvest of souls the world has ever seen. May we rise to the challenge and take our place in this prophetic army, for such a time as this.
Frequently Asked Questions About School of the prophets in the bible
1. Q: What was the purpose of the schools of the prophets in the Bible?
A: The schools of the prophets were established to train and equip prophetic voices to speak God’s word to the nation of Israel. They provided mentorship, spiritual discipline, and practical ministry experience for aspiring prophets.
2. Q: Who founded the first school of the prophets?
A: The prophet Samuel is credited with establishing the first school of the prophets mentioned in the Bible, as seen in 1 Samuel 19:20.
3. Q: Where were the schools of the prophets located?
A: The Bible mentions schools of the prophets in various locations, including Ramah (1 Samuel 19:18-24), Bethel (2 Kings 2:3), Jericho (2 Kings 2:5), and Gilgal (2 Kings 4:38).
4. Q: What kind of training did students receive in the schools of the prophets?
A: Students in the schools of the prophets were trained in studying the Scriptures, practicing spiritual disciplines like prayer and fasting, cultivating prophetic gifts, and developing godly character.
5. Q: How did one qualify to join a school of the prophets?
A: While the Bible doesn’t give explicit requirements, it seems that students needed a clear calling from God, a life of devotion and obedience, and a teachable spirit.
6. Q: What role did music and worship play in the schools of the prophets?
A: Music and worship were integral to prophetic training, often used as catalysts for prophetic utterance and creating an atmosphere conducive to hearing God’s voice (1 Samuel 10:5, 2 Kings 3:15).
7. Q: Were there any notable prophets who mentored others in the schools?
A: Yes, the prophet Elijah mentored Elisha, who later became his successor (1 Kings 19:19-21, 2 Kings 2:1-18). Samuel also mentored many prophets in his school at Ramah.
8. Q: Did the schools of the prophets have a uniform curriculum?
A: While the Bible doesn’t provide a detailed curriculum, it seems the schools emphasized studying Scripture, practicing spiritual disciplines, cultivating prophetic gifts, and developing godly character.
9. Q: Were women allowed to attend the schools of the prophets?
A: The Bible doesn’t explicitly mention women attending the schools, but it does recognize several prominent female prophets like Miriam, Deborah, and Huldah, suggesting that women were not excluded from prophetic ministry.
10. Q: How long did students typically study in the schools of the prophets?
A: The Bible doesn’t specify the length of training, but it likely varied depending on the individual’s calling, maturity, and readiness for ministry.
11. Q: Did all graduates of the schools of the prophets become prominent prophets?
A: Not necessarily. Some, like Elisha, became recognized prophetic leaders, while others may have served in more localized or supportive roles.
12. Q: What was the relationship between the schools of the prophets and the monarchy?
A: The schools of the prophets often served as a prophetic voice to the kings of Israel, offering guidance, correction, and even confrontation when necessary.
13. Q: How were the schools of the prophets funded?
A: The Bible doesn’t provide details on funding, but it seems the schools were supported by the generosity of the community and the labor of the students themselves (2 Kings 4:38-41).
14. Q: What was the significance of the schools of the prophets in Israel’s history?
A: The schools played a crucial role in preserving and perpetuating the prophetic tradition in Israel, especially during times of spiritual decline and national apostasy.
15. Q: Are there modern-day equivalents to the schools of the prophets?
A: While there may not be exact replicas, many churches and ministries offer training programs, courses, or mentoring opportunities to equip believers in the prophetic gifts.
16. Q: What can we learn from the schools of the prophets about mentorship?
A: The schools of the prophets highlight the importance of mentorship in the prophetic ministry, as seen in the relationship between Elijah and Elisha. Mentorship involves life-on-life impartation, not just classroom instruction.
17. Q: How did the schools of the prophets shape Israel’s prophetic tradition?
A: The schools of the prophets helped to standardize and formalize prophetic ministry in Israel, ensuring that prophetic voices were trained, accountable, and grounded in God’s word.
18. Q: What was the relationship between the schools of the prophets and the Levitical priesthood?
A: While distinct from the priesthood, the schools of the prophets likely had some overlap and interaction with the Levites, as both were involved in serving God and ministering to His people.
19. Q: How did the schools of the prophets foster community and accountability?
A: The schools of the prophets provided a context for prophetic voices to develop in community, submitting to authority, serving one another, and sharpening each other’s gifts.
20. Q: What can modern believers learn from the example of the schools of the prophets?
A: The schools of the prophets teach us the importance of grounding our prophetic ministry in God’s word, cultivating a life of devotion and obedience, serving in community, and submitting to godly mentorship and authority.
If you have been blessed by this teaching and desire to go deeper in your understanding of the prophetic, I invite you to check out some of my other resources:
- “How to Prophesy Accurately: 13 Keys to receive and release a prophetic word” is a practical handbook to help you grow in your prophetic gifting, full of biblical insight and personal stories from my decades of ministry.
- “Mind Fasting: Unlock Your Spiritual Vision and See Clearly in the Spirit Realm” explores the vital but often neglected role of spiritual disciplines like fasting in sharpening our spiritual senses and tuning our hearts to hear God’s voice more clearly.
- My Prophetic Masterclass, available at PropheticBibleSchool.com, offers in-depth video teachings, interactive exercises, and a vibrant online community to accelerate your growth as a prophet.
My prayer is that as you dive deep into the Scriptures, you will encounter afresh the beauty and power of God’s prophetic Word. May you hear His voice with greater clarity, walk in the fullness of your prophetic calling, and bear witness to the unfolding of His marvelous purposes in the earth.
Hungry for more of the prophetic? Visit PropheticBibleSchool.com to enroll in my Prophetic Masterclass today!
Gratefully yours,