What other biblical examples show prophets encouraging believers? Setting the Scene: Acts 15:32 “Judas and Silas, who themselves were prophets, said much to encourage and strengthen the brothers.” God consistently raises up prophets who do exactly what Judas and Silas modeled—pour courage into God’s people when they most need it. Old-Testament Snapshots of Prophetic Encouragement • Moses to Joshua and Israel (Deuteronomy 31:6–8) “Be strong and courageous… the LORD Himself goes before you.” – Moses, God’s spokesman, transfers bravery to an anxious nation and to his young successor. • Samuel to the repentant Israelites (1 Samuel 12:20–25) “Do not be afraid. Even though you have done all this evil… serve the LORD with all your heart.” – A prophet who refuses to shame; instead, he steadies their hearts for renewed obedience. • Elijah to the widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17:13–14) “Do not fear… the jar of flour will not be exhausted.” – A miraculous promise delivered in gentle words that lift a destitute mother’s faith. • Isaiah to King Hezekiah (2 Kings 19:6–7) “This is what the LORD says: ‘Do not be afraid of the words you have heard.’” – In face of Assyrian threats, Isaiah’s message turns panic into confidence. • Haggai to the weary builders (Haggai 2:4–5) “Take courage… My Spirit remains among you; do not fear.” – A worn-out remnant hears heaven’s pep-talk and returns to the work of rebuilding. • Zechariah to Zerubbabel (Zechariah 4:6–10) “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit… who despises the day of small things?” – Visionary encouragement that small beginnings can still yield God-sized results. New-Testament Echoes of Prophetic Encouragement • Agabus in Antioch (Acts 11:28–30) Foresees famine, prompting believers to rally relief—turning a warning into practical compassion. • Prophets and teachers in Antioch (Acts 13:1–3) While worshiping and fasting, they hear the Spirit say, “Set apart Barnabas and Saul.” – Their guidance releases two missionaries and inspires the church to global vision. • Paul himself at Corinth (Acts 18:9–11) Although an apostle, he also operates prophetically when the Lord tells him in a night vision, “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking… I have many people in this city.” – That word anchors Paul for eighteen fruitful months of ministry. • The four prophetic daughters of Philip (Acts 21:8–9) Though specific words aren’t recorded, Luke notes their gift, implying a ministry of ongoing edification within the Caesarean fellowship. • Silas again with Paul and Timothy (1 Thessalonians 1:1; 3:2) “He sent Timothy, our brother and God’s fellow worker, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith.” – The same Silas from Acts 15 continues traveling in a prophetic-encouraging capacity. Common Threads We Notice • “Do not fear” appears repeatedly—prophets cut the root of anxiety. • They direct eyes to God’s presence (“the LORD Himself goes before you”). • Encouragement often pairs with instruction—courage to act, not just feel better. • Miraculous assurance (“the jar will not be exhausted”) reinforces practical obedience. • Whether facing famine, foreign armies, or ministry fatigue, God sends a voice before He sends visible help. Why This Matters for Us The same Lord who spoke through Moses, Haggai, and Agabus still deploys His Word to nourish courage in today’s church. Every time Scripture is opened, its prophetic voice can echo what Judas and Silas did: “say much to encourage and strengthen the brothers.” |
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