In what ways can we discern genuine prophecy that aligns with Scripture? The Anchor Verse 1 Corinthians 14:3: “But he who prophesies speaks to men for their edification, encouragement, and comfort.” Paul’s concise summary gives us a three–lane highway for recognizing authentic prophecy: it edifies, it encourages (exhorts), and it comforts. The Threefold Test From 1 Corinthians 14:3 • Edification—building up • Sound prophecy strengthens faith, never erodes it. • Acts 20:32: “Now I commit you to God and to the word of His grace, which can build you up….” • Encouragement—stirring to action and obedience • Hebrews 10:24: “And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds.” • Real prophetic exhortation never contradicts God’s moral commands. • Comfort—easing sorrow, breathing hope • 2 Corinthians 1:3–4: God “comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble….” • Words that usher condemnation or despair without pointing to Christ’s grace are suspect. Grounded in the Written Word • Isaiah 8:20: “To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, there is no light in them.” • Deuteronomy 13:1–4 warns that even a sign-working prophet who lures listeners away from God’s commandments must be rejected. • Authentic prophecy never adds new doctrine, never edits Scripture, and never clashes with the gospel revealed once for all (Jude 3). Consistency With Christ’s Character • Revelation 19:10: “The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” • Does the message magnify Jesus—His person, work, and lordship—or distract from Him? • Matthew 7:15–16 points to fruit: a false prophet may wear sheep’s clothing, but the inner nature eventually surfaces. Look for the fragrance of Christ: humility, truthfulness, love. Fruit in the Hearers Real prophecy produces godly results: • Repentance where sin is exposed (Acts 2:37–38). • Fresh devotion to Scripture and prayer. • Peace that guards hearts (Philippians 4:7). • Practical obedience, not mere emotion (James 1:22). Confirmed by the Body • 1 Corinthians 14:29: “Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh carefully what is said.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:19–21: “Do not quench the Spirit. Do not treat prophecies with contempt, but test all things. Hold fast to what is good.” Practical steps: • Leaders and mature believers weigh the word together. • Agreement is sought with previously given, tested words. • Timely fulfillment (Deuteronomy 18:22) is watched for when a prediction is involved. The Balance of Freedom and Order • God encourages the free exercise of Spirit-led gifts (1 Corinthians 14:1), yet insists on order (14:40). • Healthy gatherings leave room for prophetic ministry while safeguarding with scriptural boundaries and accountable leadership. Walking It Out • Desire the gift (1 Corinthians 14:1) while cherishing the Scriptures above every impression. • Keep the three questions handy: Does it build up? Does it align with written truth? Does it exalt Jesus? • When those boxes are checked and the Spirit bears witness, the church can receive the word with confidence and joy. |
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