Prophecy, in NT

The NT describes the prophetic aspect of the ministry of Jesus Christ, and also recognises that prophetic gifts are given to believers through the Holy Spirit. It provides guidance on how such prophetic gifts are to be used.

Jesus Christ recognised as a prophet

Matthew 21:11; Mark 6:4, Mark 8:27–28; Luke 7:16, Luke 24:17–19; John 4:19

Prophecy in the church

Prophecy is one among many spiritual gifts

1 Corinthians 12:28–29 See also Romans 12:6; 1 Corinthians 12:10; Ephesians 4:11

And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, and those with gifts of healing, helping, administration, and various tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles?

Not all are called to be prophets

1 Corinthians 12:29; Ephesians 4:11

Prophecy is valueless without love

1 Corinthians 13:1–2

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a ringing gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have absolute faith so as to move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.

Prophecy is for the building up of the church

1 Corinthians 14:26 See also Romans 12:3–6; 1 Corinthians 14:3–5; 1 Peter 4:10

What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, everyone has a psalm or a teaching, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. All of these must be done to build up the church.

Prophecy superior to speaking in tongues

1 Corinthians 14:5

I wish that all of you could speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets so that the church may be edified.