How does 1 Kings 21:28 demonstrate God's communication through His prophets today? A Simple Scene, a Profound Truth “Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying,” (1 Kings 21:28) • One short sentence—yet it affirms that God Himself initiates communication. • Elijah is not guessing, intuiting, or philosophizing; he receives an actual, verbal message. • The phrase “the word of the LORD came” appears repeatedly in Scripture, marking moments when God breaks into human history to guide, correct, or encourage. The Pattern of Divine Speech in Scripture • Old-Testament prophets: “Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets.” (Amos 3:7) • New-Testament continuity: “In the past God spoke to our fathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son.” (Hebrews 1:1-2) • Post-Pentecost church: “He gave some to be apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers.” (Ephesians 4:11) The same God who addressed Elijah now addresses His people through: 1. The written Word—closed canon, fully authoritative. 2. The living Word—Jesus Christ, revealed in Scripture. 3. The Spirit-empowered gifts—prophetic utterance that must align with and never add to Scripture. Timeless Lessons for Today • God still speaks; He has not grown silent. • His voice is personal—directed to Elijah by name. Expect God’s guidance to be specific, not vague. • Prophetic communication carries purpose. In context, Elijah must confront Ahab; today, God’s prophetic word still calls for obedience and action. • Accuracy is non-negotiable. What God says is true, factual, and comes to pass (Deuteronomy 18:21-22). Guidelines for Recognizing Prophetic Voice Now • Consistency with Scripture—never contradicting the “faith once for all delivered” (Jude 3). • Christ-exalting focus—“For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” (Revelation 19:10) • Moral clarity—exposes sin, encourages repentance, strengthens holiness. • Tested in community—“Do not treat prophecies with contempt, but test everything; hold fast to what is good.” (1 Thessalonians 5:20-21). • Fruit of the Spirit evident in the messenger (Galatians 5:22-23). Supporting Scriptures • 2 Peter 1:20-21 — Prophecy originates with God, not human will. • Acts 2:17-18 — Promise of prophetic gifts for the church age. • Acts 11:27-28 — Agabus demonstrates post-resurrection prophetic ministry. • 1 Corinthians 14:3 — New-covenant prophecy: strengthening, encouragement, consolation. Summary Takeaways • 1 Kings 21:28 showcases the living God who speaks with clarity and authority. • His pattern of using prophetic voices did not cease with Elijah; it continues, safeguarded by Scripture and centered on Christ. • Believers who honor the written Word, walk in the Spirit, and submit prophetic impressions to biblical testing can still experience God’s direct guidance today. |
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