What actions can we take to support modern-day prophets and teachers? Rooted in Jeremiah 26:22 – A Warning and a Call “Then King Jehoiakim sent men to Egypt: Elnathan son of Achbor, along with some other men.” (Jeremiah 26:22) Jehoiakim’s action shows the tragic opposite of support: he hunted down God’s prophet Uriah and silenced him. From that negative example rises a positive mandate—stand with, not against, those God sends to speak His word today. Learning from the Negative Example • Jehoiakim rejected the prophetic word because it confronted his sin (26:20–23). • He used political power to suppress truth rather than repent. • Result: he incurred God’s judgment (Jeremiah 22:18–19). • We must break the pattern: receive the word, protect the messenger, and cooperate with God. Practical Ways to Uphold Modern-Day Prophets and Teachers 1. Listen humbly • “He who has ears, let him hear.” (Matthew 11:15) • Approach sermons, lessons, and prophetic encouragement with open Bibles and open hearts. 2. Test and affirm what is true • “Test all things. Hold fast to what is good.” (1 Thessalonians 5:21) • Discernment safeguards the church while honoring genuine voices. 3. Offer tangible support • “The one who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor.” (Galatians 6:6) • Provide finances, meals, study tools, and practical help so teachers can focus on the ministry of the word. 4. Grant double honor and respectful hearing • “The elders who lead well are worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.” (1 Timothy 5:17) • Speak well of them, defend them against gossip, and value their time. 5. Pray consistently • “Pray also for us, that the word of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored.” (2 Thessalonians 3:1) • Lift their families, health, and spiritual stamina before the throne of grace. 6. Protect them from harm and discouragement • Unlike Jehoiakim, be the ones who shelter and encourage prophets when culture pushes back. • “Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you.” (Hebrews 13:7) 7. Obey the word they faithfully proclaim • “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls.” (Hebrews 13:17) • Application is the highest compliment to faithful teaching. 8. Spread the message further • “The brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples to welcome him.” (Acts 18:27) • Share sermons, books, and sound prophetic insights so the truth multiplies. Additional Scriptural Reinforcements • 2 Chronicles 20:20 – “Believe His prophets, and you will succeed.” • 3 John 5-8 – Commending those who support traveling teachers. • Romans 10:15 – “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Living It Out Today • Schedule regular intercession time for your pastors and Bible teachers. • Budget for generous giving toward mission work and solid teaching ministries. • Offer your skills—editing, technology, hospitality—to lighten their load. • When you hear solid, biblical prophecy or teaching, respond quickly: repent where needed, share the insight, and encourage the messenger. • Guard your conversation: refuse to participate in tearing down Christ’s servants. Standing with God’s messengers reverses the failure of Jehoiakim. It aligns us with the Lord, advances His word, and invites His blessing on our homes, churches, and communities. |
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