In the biblical context, a prophet is an individual chosen by God to deliver His messages to the people. The role of a prophet is multifaceted, encompassing the duties of a messenger, intercessor, and sometimes a leader. Prophets are pivotal figures in both the Old and New Testaments, serving as God's mouthpiece to communicate His will, warnings, and promises.

Divine Messenger

The primary role of a prophet is to act as a divine messenger. Prophets receive revelations from God and are tasked with conveying these messages to the intended audience. This is evident in the calling of Jeremiah, where God says, "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). Prophets often begin their messages with phrases like "Thus says the LORD," indicating that their words are not their own but are divinely inspired.

Call to Repentance

Prophets frequently call the people to repentance and adherence to God's covenant. They are often sent during times of moral and spiritual decline to urge the people to return to God. For instance, the prophet Isaiah exhorts the people of Judah, "Wash and cleanse yourselves. Remove your evil deeds from My sight. Stop doing evil!" (Isaiah 1:16). This call to repentance is a central theme in the prophetic ministry, emphasizing the need for holiness and obedience to God's laws.

Foretelling and Forthtelling

Prophets engage in both foretelling and forthtelling. Foretelling involves predicting future events, often concerning judgment or salvation. An example is the prophecy of the coming Messiah, as seen in Isaiah 7:14: "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel" . Forthtelling, on the other hand, involves proclaiming God's truth to the present situation, addressing social injustices, and calling for ethical living.

Intercessory Role

Prophets also serve as intercessors, standing in the gap between God and the people. Moses is a prime example, as he intercedes for Israel after they sin by worshiping the golden calf. In Exodus 32:11, Moses pleads with God, "But Moses sought the favor of the LORD his God, saying, 'O LORD, why does Your anger burn against Your people, whom You brought out of the land of Egypt with great power and a mighty hand?'" . This intercessory role highlights the prophet's deep concern for the people and their relationship with God.

Covenant Enforcers

Prophets act as enforcers of the covenant between God and His people. They remind the Israelites of their covenantal obligations and the consequences of disobedience. The prophet Samuel, for instance, warns King Saul of the importance of obedience over sacrifice: "But Samuel declared: 'Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obedience to His voice? Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice, and attentiveness is better than the fat of rams'" (1 Samuel 15:22).

Role in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the role of a prophet continues, though it takes on new dimensions with the coming of Christ. John the Baptist is considered the last of the Old Testament-style prophets, preparing the way for Jesus. In the early church, prophets are part of the fivefold ministry described in Ephesians 4:11: "And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers" . Prophets in the New Testament church provide edification, exhortation, and comfort to the believers (1 Corinthians 14:3).

Characteristics of a True Prophet

The Bible provides criteria to discern true prophets from false ones. A true prophet's message aligns with God's revealed word and comes to pass (Deuteronomy 18:21-22). Moreover, true prophets exhibit a life of integrity and faithfulness to God. Jesus warns against false prophets, saying, "By their fruit you will recognize them" (Matthew 7:16), emphasizing the importance of character and consistency with God's truth.

In summary, the role of a prophet is integral to the biblical narrative, serving as God's spokesperson, calling for repentance, foretelling future events, interceding for the people, and upholding the covenant. Prophets are essential in guiding God's people and revealing His will throughout the Scriptures.