A prophetic commission refers to the divine appointment and empowerment of an individual to serve as a prophet, a spokesperson for God. This commission is characterized by a direct call from God, often accompanied by a vision or a profound spiritual experience, and is marked by the authority to deliver God's messages to His people. Prophets play a crucial role in the biblical narrative, serving as intermediaries between God and humanity, conveying divine will, warnings, and promises.

Biblical Examples of Prophetic Commission

1. Moses: One of the earliest and most significant examples of a prophetic commission is found in the calling of Moses. In Exodus 3, God appears to Moses in a burning bush and commissions him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. God assures Moses of His presence, saying, "I will certainly be with you" (Exodus 3:12). Moses' commission is further affirmed by signs and wonders, establishing his authority as God's chosen leader and prophet.

2. Isaiah: The commissioning of Isaiah is vividly described in Isaiah 6. In a vision, Isaiah sees the Lord seated on a throne, surrounded by seraphim. Overwhelmed by his own unworthiness, Isaiah is cleansed by a coal from the altar, and he responds to God's call with, "Here am I. Send me!" (Isaiah 6:8). Isaiah's commission involves delivering messages of both judgment and hope to the people of Judah.

3. Jeremiah: Jeremiah's prophetic commission is detailed in Jeremiah 1. God calls Jeremiah before his birth, saying, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to the nations" (Jeremiah 1:5). Despite Jeremiah's initial reluctance, God reassures him of divine protection and authority, symbolized by touching Jeremiah's mouth and putting His words there (Jeremiah 1:9).

4. Ezekiel: Ezekiel's commission is marked by a dramatic vision of God's glory in Ezekiel 1-3. God instructs Ezekiel to speak to the rebellious house of Israel, regardless of their response. The Lord empowers Ezekiel by giving him a scroll to eat, symbolizing the internalization of God's message (Ezekiel 3:1-3).

5. Amos: Amos, a shepherd and fig tree farmer, receives his commission in a less formal setting. In Amos 7:14-15, he explains, "I was not a prophet, nor was I a son of a prophet, but I was a shepherd, and I also took care of sycamore-fig trees. But the LORD took me from following the flock and said to me, 'Go, prophesy to My people Israel'" . Amos' commission underscores the sovereignty of God in choosing His messengers.

Characteristics of a Prophetic Commission

· Divine Initiative: A prophetic commission originates from God, who chooses and calls the prophet. This divine initiative underscores the authority and authenticity of the prophet's message.

· Empowerment and Equipping: God equips His prophets with the necessary spiritual gifts and authority to fulfill their mission. This often includes visions, dreams, and the ability to perform signs and wonders.

· Message of Warning and Hope: Prophets are tasked with delivering messages that often include calls to repentance, warnings of impending judgment, and promises of restoration and hope.

· Resistance and Rejection: Prophets frequently face opposition and rejection from those to whom they are sent. Despite this, they are called to remain faithful to their commission, trusting in God's protection and vindication.

· Covenantal Context: Prophetic commissions are often set within the context of God's covenant with His people. Prophets remind the people of their covenantal obligations and the consequences of disobedience, while also pointing to God's faithfulness and mercy.

The prophetic commission is a profound aspect of biblical theology, illustrating God's desire to communicate with His people and guide them according to His divine purposes. Through the prophets, God reveals His character, His plans for redemption, and His ultimate sovereignty over history.