How should we respond to prophetic messages in our current Christian communities? Setting the Scene in Acts 11 • Acts 11 finds the young church spreading beyond Jerusalem. • Believers in Antioch are maturing, and the Holy Spirit sends help from Jerusalem. • Verse focus: “In those days some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch.” (Acts 11:27) What We Learn from Prophets Arriving • Prophecy is normal New-Testament church life, not an odd exception. • God often speaks through trusted servants sent from elsewhere, protecting the flock from isolation and error. • Their arrival signals that God still guides His people in real-time circumstances. Principles for Responding to Prophetic Messages Today 1. Expect Them, but Don’t Chase Sensationalism – 1 Corinthians 14:1 “Earnestly desire spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy.” – Remain open; prophetic speech is part of healthy church life. 2. Test Everything by Scripture – 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.” – If a word contradicts the written Word, it is automatically rejected (Deuteronomy 18:20-22). 3. Consider the Messenger’s Fruit – Matthew 7:16 “By their fruit you will recognize them.” – Lifestyle, doctrine, and humility matter more than dramatic revelations. 4. Seek Confirmation in Community – 1 Corinthians 14:29 “Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully what is said.” – Invite mature believers and elders to weigh a word together. 5. Look for Christ-Exalting Focus – Revelation 19:10 “For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” – A true message will magnify Christ, not the prophet. 6. Respond with Practical Obedience – In Acts 11:29, believers immediately gather relief for famine victims once Agabus prophesies. – Genuine prophecy often calls for tangible action—repentance, generosity, mission. 7. Maintain Humility and Room for Growth – 1 Corinthians 13:9 “For we know in part and we prophesy in part.” – No prophet or hearer has the full picture; stay teachable. A Simple Checklist Before Acting • Does it align with clear Scripture? • Is Jesus glorified? • Do spiritually mature leaders affirm it? • Does the Holy Spirit give inner witness of peace? • Is there righteous fruit when acted upon? Living It Out • Cultivate a Scripture-saturated heart; the more Word you know, the quicker you discern. • Foster accountable relationships; prophecy thrives in trusted community. • When a message passes the tests, obey promptly—God’s guidance is a gift for today’s needs. |
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