Greetings, beloved in Christ! I’m Kum Eric Tso, and I’m thrilled to share with you this comprehensive guide on the gift of prophecy. As the founder of Prophetic Bible School and author of the best-selling book “How to Prophesy Accurately: 13 Keys to Receive and Release a Prophetic Word,” I’ve dedicated my life to understanding and teaching the prophetic gifts.

My journey with Christ began at the age of 12 in a Bible club during my secondary school years in Tiko, Cameroon. That early encounter with God’s love ignited a passion that led me to street evangelism and eventually to the prophetic ministry. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of serving in various church leadership roles, focusing on ministry training, church growth, and evangelism programs.

Through my experiences and the wisdom God has graciously imparted, I’ve come to understand the profound impact of the prophetic gift in the Body of Christ. This blog post is born out of years of study, practice, and teaching on this vital spiritual gift. Whether you’re new to the concept of prophecy or looking to deepen your prophetic ministry, my prayer is that this guide will equip and inspire you to fully embrace this powerful manifestation of God’s Spirit in your life.

As we embark on this exploration of the gift of prophecy together, let’s open our hearts to hear God’s voice and learn how to be faithful stewards of this incredible gift. May this teaching bring you closer to the heart of our Father and empower you to be a vessel of His prophetic voice in your sphere of influence.

Let’s begin this journey of unleashing God’s voice in the Body of Christ!

Introduction

In the vibrant tapestry of spiritual gifts bestowed upon the Body of Christ, the gift of prophecy stands out as a powerful and often misunderstood blessing. This prophetic gift, deeply rooted in Scripture and vital to the life of the Church, serves as a direct channel for God’s voice to His people. As born-again believers, understanding and embracing this gift is crucial for our spiritual growth and the edification of our fellow Christians.

The gift of prophecy, at its core, is the Spirit-empowered ability to receive and communicate divine messages. It’s not merely about predicting the future, as some might assume. Rather, it’s about speaking forth God’s heart, His warnings, His encouragements, and His wisdom to individuals and communities. As the Apostle Paul eloquently states in 1 Corinthians 14:3 (ESV):

“On the other hand, the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation.”

This verse encapsulates the essence of the prophetic gift – it’s a tool for building up the church, encouraging the downhearted, and bringing comfort to those in need. The gift of prophecy is not reserved for a select few but is available to all believers filled with the Holy Spirit, as promised in Acts 2:17-18 (NIV):

“‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy.'”

As we delve deeper into this topic, we’ll explore the biblical foundations of the prophetic gift, its purpose in the modern church, and practical ways to develop and exercise this gift responsibly. Whether you’re new to the concept of prophecy or have been operating in this gift for years, this comprehensive guide aims to deepen your understanding and inspire you to fully embrace this powerful manifestation of God’s Spirit in your life.

Key Aspects of the Gift of Prophecy:

• It’s a divine communication channel
• It’s for edification, exhortation, and comfort
• It’s available to all Spirit-filled believers
• It requires responsible use and discernment

In the following sections, we’ll unpack these aspects and more, providing you with a thorough understanding of how to recognize, develop, and exercise the gift of prophecy in your walk with God and service to His church.

The Gift of Prophecy in Scripture

To fully grasp the significance of the gift of prophecy in the life of a believer, we must first understand its rich biblical foundation. The prophetic gift has been a crucial part of God’s interaction with His people throughout both the Old and New Testaments, evolving in its expression but consistent in its purpose of revealing God’s heart and will.

Old Testament Prophets and Their Ministry

In the Old Testament, prophets served as God’s mouthpieces, delivering messages of warning, judgment, and hope to the people of Israel and surrounding nations. These prophets, such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel, often lived set-apart lives and faced significant challenges as they faithfully delivered God’s words, even when those words were unpopular.

Key characteristics of Old Testament prophecy include:

• Foretelling future events
• Calling people to repentance
• Delivering messages of judgment and restoration
• Providing guidance to leaders and nations

An exemplary instance of Old Testament prophecy is found in Isaiah 53, where the prophet vividly describes the coming Messiah centuries before Jesus’ birth:

“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5, NIV)

New Testament Prophecy: A Gift for All Believers

With the advent of the New Covenant, the nature of prophecy shifted. While still maintaining its core purpose of communicating God’s messages, the gift of prophecy became more widely accessible to all believers filled with the Holy Spirit.

This democratization of the prophetic gift was foretold by the prophet Joel and reiterated by Peter on the day of Pentecost:

“In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.” (Acts 2:17, NIV)

In the New Testament church, prophecy became one of the spiritual gifts that contributed to the edification of the body of Christ. The Apostle Paul, in particular, emphasized the importance of prophecy in his letters:

“Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy.” (1 Corinthians 14:1, NIV)

Key Scriptures on Prophecy

To deepen our understanding of the gift of prophecy, let’s examine some pivotal scriptures:

These scriptures collectively paint a picture of prophecy as a gift that, when exercised in love and wisdom, brings tremendous benefit to the Church. They also highlight the responsibility that comes with this gift, emphasizing the need for discernment and proper use within the community of believers.

As we continue to explore the gift of prophecy, it’s crucial to remember that while its expression may have evolved from the Old to the New Testament, its fundamental purpose remains unchanged: to convey God’s heart and mind to His people, building up the body of Christ and drawing individuals closer to their Creator.

Understanding the Prophetic Gift

As we delve deeper into the gift of prophecy, it’s crucial to develop a clear understanding of what this spiritual gift entails, especially in the context of the local church. The prophetic gift, when properly understood and exercised, can be a powerful tool for building up the body of Christ and revealing God’s heart to His people.

Defining Prophecy in the Context of the Local Church

In the New Testament context, prophecy is not primarily about predicting the future, although it may sometimes include foretelling events. Instead, it’s about forth-telling God’s heart and mind to His people. The Apostle Paul provides a succinct definition in 1 Corinthians 14:3 (ESV):

“On the other hand, the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation.”

This definition highlights three key aspects of prophecy in the local church:

1. Upbuilding (Edification): Prophecy should strengthen and build up the faith of believers.
2. Encouragement: It should inspire and motivate God’s people to press on in their faith journey.
3. Consolation (Comfort): Prophetic words often bring comfort and reassurance to those facing challenges.

Types of Prophetic Expressions

The gift of prophecy can manifest in various ways. Understanding these different expressions can help believers recognize and cultivate their prophetic gift. Some common types include:

• Verbal Prophecy: Spoken words of encouragement, direction, or revelation.
• Prophetic Dreams: Divine messages or insights received during sleep.
• Visions: Mental images or scenes that convey spiritual truths or future events.
• Words of Knowledge: Supernatural insight into a person’s life or situation.
• Prophetic Actions: Symbolic acts that convey a spiritual message (like some Old Testament prophets performed).

It’s important to note that these expressions can overlap and that individuals may experience the prophetic gift in unique ways.

Distinguishing Prophecy from Other Spiritual Gifts

While the gift of prophecy is powerful and important, it’s just one of many spiritual gifts mentioned in the New Testament. To better understand prophecy, it’s helpful to distinguish it from other related gifts:

The Role of the Holy Spirit in Prophetic Ministry

Central to understanding the gift of prophecy is recognizing the crucial role of the Holy Spirit. The prophetic gift is not a human ability but a divine empowerment. As Jesus promised in John 16:13 (NIV):

“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.”

This verse underscores several important points about the Holy Spirit’s role in prophecy:

• The Spirit is the source of prophetic revelation
• Prophetic messages align with God’s truth
• The Spirit communicates what He hears from the Father
• Prophecy can include insights about future events

Understanding these aspects of the prophetic gift helps believers approach it with the right perspective – not as a personal ability to be proud of, but as a sacred trust and responsibility to be stewarded carefully for the benefit of the body of Christ.

Case Study: Agabus in the Book of Acts

To illustrate the operation of the prophetic gift in the early church, let’s examine the case of Agabus, a prophet mentioned in the Book of Acts:

“During this time some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. One of them, named Agabus, stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. (This happened during the reign of Claudius.)” (Acts 11:27-28, NIV)

Later, Agabus appears again:

“After we had been there a number of days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. Coming over to us, he took Paul’s belt, tied his own hands and feet with it and said, ‘The Holy Spirit says, ‘In this way the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and will hand him over to the Gentiles.”” (Acts 21:10-11, NIV)

These instances demonstrate key aspects of New Testament prophecy:

1. Prophecy can involve predicting future events
2. Prophetic messages can be both general (affecting a wide area) and personal (specific to an individual)
3. Prophetic actions can accompany verbal messages
4. The source of the prophecy is clearly attributed to the Holy Spirit
5. Prophecies can serve as warnings, allowing the church to prepare or respond appropriately

As we continue to explore the gift of prophecy, it’s essential to keep these foundational understandings in mind. The prophetic gift, when properly understood and exercised under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, can be a powerful instrument for God’s voice to be heard in the church today.

The Purpose of Prophecy in the Body of Christ

As we continue our exploration of the gift of prophecy, it’s crucial to understand its divine purpose within the Body of Christ. The prophetic gift isn’t merely for personal edification or showcasing spiritual prowess; rather, it serves several vital functions in building up the church and drawing individuals closer to God’s heart.

Edification, Exhortation, and Comfort

The Apostle Paul provides a concise yet profound explanation of prophecy’s purpose in 1 Corinthians 14:3 (NKJV):

“But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men.”

Let’s break down these three key purposes:

1. Edification (Building Up): Prophecy should strengthen the faith of believers, deepening their understanding of God and His ways. It’s like spiritual construction, building up the church both individually and corporately.
2. Exhortation (Encouragement): Prophetic words often inspire believers to press on in their faith journey, motivating them to pursue God’s will with renewed vigor.
3. Comfort: In times of distress or uncertainty, prophetic messages can bring solace and reassurance, reminding believers of God’s love, faithfulness, and sovereign control.

Building Up the Church and Individual Believers

The gift of prophecy plays a vital role in the growth and maturation of the Church. Here are some ways prophecy contributes to this process:

• Confirming God’s Word: Prophetic messages often align with and reinforce biblical truths, deepening believers’ understanding of Scripture.
• Providing Direction: Sometimes, prophecy offers guidance for individuals or the church as a whole, helping navigate challenging decisions or seasons.
• Strengthening Unity: When exercised properly, prophecy can foster a sense of community and shared purpose among believers.
• Encouraging Spiritual Gifts: Seeing the gift of prophecy in action can inspire others to seek and develop their own spiritual gifts.
• Bringing Conviction: Prophetic words may sometimes convict of sin, leading to repentance and spiritual growth.

Revealing God’s Heart and Plans to His People

One of the most beautiful aspects of the prophetic gift is its ability to reveal God’s heart and plans to His people. This revelation serves multiple purposes:

The Role of Prophecy in Spiritual Warfare

While not its primary purpose, the gift of prophecy can play a significant role in spiritual warfare. The Apostle Paul alludes to this in Ephesians 6:17-18 (NIV):

“Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.”

Praying and speaking prophetically can be powerful weapons in spiritual battles:

• Exposing hidden spiritual realities or demonic influences
• Declaring God’s truth over situations or individuals
• Providing strategic insight for intercessory prayer
• Breaking spiritual strongholds through prophetic declarations

Case Study: Prophecy in the Early Church

To illustrate the practical purpose of prophecy in the Body of Christ, let’s examine an instance from the early church:

“Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.'” (Acts 13:1-2, NIV)

This prophetic word served several purposes:

1. It provided clear direction for the church’s ministry
2. It confirmed God’s calling on Barnabas and Saul (Paul)
3. It initiated a new phase of missionary work, expanding the reach of the gospel
4. It demonstrated God’s active involvement in the church’s affairs

This example showcases how prophecy can provide divine guidance, confirm callings, and propel the church into God’s missional purposes.

Balancing Prophecy with Other Spiritual Gifts

While the gift of prophecy is crucial, it’s important to remember that it works in harmony with other spiritual gifts. Paul emphasizes this in 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 (NIV):

“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.”

The gift of prophecy should never overshadow or negate other gifts. Instead, it should complement them, working together to build up the Body of Christ in a balanced and healthy manner.

As we continue to explore the gift of prophecy, let’s remember its ultimate purpose: to reveal God’s heart, build up His church, and draw people closer to Him. When used in accordance with this purpose and in conjunction with other spiritual gifts, prophecy becomes a powerful tool in God’s hands for the edification and growth of His people.

Developing Your Prophetic Gift

As we’ve explored the purpose and significance of the gift of prophecy, you may find yourself desiring to cultivate this spiritual gift in your own life. While prophecy is indeed a gift of the Holy Spirit, there are practical steps you can take to create an environment conducive to hearing God’s voice and growing in your prophetic calling.

Cultivating Intimacy with God through Prayer and Worship

The foundation of all prophetic ministry is a deep, personal relationship with God. As we draw near to Him, He promises to draw near to us (James 4:8). Here are some ways to cultivate this intimacy:

• Consistent Prayer Time: Set aside regular times for focused prayer and listening to God.
• Worship: Engage in both personal and corporate worship to align your heart with God’s.
• Meditation: Spend time quietly reflecting on God’s Word and His character.
• Fasting: Periodically fast to sharpen your spiritual sensitivity and dependence on God.
• Journaling: Keep a record of your spiritual journey, including any words or impressions you receive from God.

Remember, prophecy flows from relationship. As the prophet Amos declared (Amos 3:7, NIV):

“Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets.”

Studying and Meditating on Scripture

A thorough knowledge of God’s Word is crucial for developing your prophetic gift. Scripture provides the foundation and standard against which all prophetic words must be measured. Here’s how to engage with Scripture effectively:

1. Regular Bible Study: Establish a consistent routine of studying God’s Word.
2. Memorization: Commit key verses to memory, especially those related to God’s character and promises.
3. Contextual Understanding: Study the historical and cultural context of Scripture to gain deeper insights.
4. Cross-Referencing: Explore how different parts of the Bible connect and illuminate each other.
5. Application: Always seek to apply Scripture to your daily life, not just accumulate knowledge.

As you immerse yourself in God’s Word, you’ll find that prophetic insights often flow from a deep well of biblical understanding.

Practicing Discernment and Sensitivity to the Holy Spirit

Developing discernment is crucial for exercising the prophetic gift responsibly. Here are some ways to grow in this area:

Stepping Out in Faith

Developing your prophetic gift requires courage to step out in faith. Here are some practical steps:

• Start Small: Begin by sharing impressions with trusted friends who can provide feedback.
• Join a Prophetic Community: Participate in a group where prophetic gifts are nurtured and practiced responsibly.
• Seek Mentorship: Find a mature believer experienced in prophetic ministry who can guide you.
• Be Willing to Make Mistakes: Remember, growth often comes through trial and error. Be humble and learn from missteps.
• Record and Reflect: Keep a journal of prophetic words you receive or share, and reflect on their accuracy and impact over time.

Balancing the Prophetic with Character Development

As you develop your prophetic gift, it’s crucial to simultaneously focus on character growth. Paul emphasizes this in 1 Corinthians 13:2 (NIV):

“If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.”

Key areas of character to develop include:

1. Love: Cultivate a genuine love for God and others.
2. Humility: Recognize that the gift is from God, not a personal achievement.
3. Integrity: Maintain honesty and transparency in all areas of life.
4. Patience: Learn to wait on God’s timing and not force prophetic words.
5. Compassion: Develop a heart that truly cares for those to whom you minister.

Case Study: The School of the Prophets

In the Old Testament, we see examples of prophets being trained and developed. Consider the “schools of the prophets” mentioned in relation to Samuel, Elijah, and Elisha:

“The company of the prophets said to Elisha, ‘Look, the place where we meet with you is too small for us. Let us go to the Jordan, where each of us can get a pole; and let us build a place there for us to meet.'” (2 Kings 6:1-2, NIV)

This passage suggests that:

• Prophetic gifts were nurtured in community
• There was a structured approach to developing prophetic ministry
• Seasoned prophets mentored younger ones
• Practical skills (like building) were combined with spiritual development

While we may not have formal “schools of the prophets” today, we can apply these principles by seeking out mentorship, community, and structured learning opportunities to develop our prophetic gifts.

Conclusion

Developing your prophetic gift is a journey that requires patience, perseverance, and a deep commitment to intimacy with God. As you cultivate your relationship with Him, study His Word, practice discernment, and step out in faith, you’ll find your ability to hear and communicate God’s voice growing stronger. Remember, the goal is not to showcase your gift, but to serve the Body of Christ and draw others closer to God’s heart. As you faithfully steward this gift, may you experience the joy of being a vessel through which God speaks His love, wisdom, and guidance to His people.

If you were blessed by this content and will like to learn more about the prophetic, I suggest you get the book “How to Prophesy Accurately: 13 Keys to receive and release a prophetic word by Kum Eric Tso“. You can equally enroll for the Prophetic Masterclass to take your prophetic calling to the next level. Click HERE to join.