Gift of Prophecy (Spirit of Truth Part 5)
Eagerly Desiring the Gift of Prophecy
As we continue exploring the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer, we come to one of the most discussed and sometimes misunderstood spiritual gifts: prophecy. Our aim in this journey through the spiritual gifts is not to provide an exhaustive theological treatise, but to build a biblical framework that leads us into deeper relationship with the Spirit and greater faithfulness in practicing His gifts.
Grounded in Both Word and Spirit
We are committed to being a "both/and" kind of church: both the Word of God and the Spirit of God. We believe in the authority of Scripture and the active work of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is not an “it” or a vague force, but the third Person of the Trinity—fully God, fully personal, and fully present with us.
As Scripture reveals, the gifts of the Spirit flow from five core biblical truths:
Source: God is the giver of every spiritual gift. They are empowered by Him, not earned by us.
Variety: There is a wide range of gifts, not just one or two. God equips His people in diverse ways.
Generosity: The Father gives generously, not reluctantly.
Purpose: The gifts are for the common good—to build up the church.
Delegation: God determines who receives which gifts, when, and how they are used.
With these truths in mind, we turn to the gift of prophecy.
A Shift in Perspective
For some, the topic of spiritual gifts can bring discomfort. Whether from a background that downplayed the Spirit or experiences of misuse, it’s easy to keep these gifts at arm’s length. But our discipleship must not be defined by what we fear or avoid. The goal is to embrace everything Scripture invites us into—including prophecy.
A helpful analogy: think of someone who hated truffles as a child, only to find them delicious and deeply enjoyable as their palate matured. Similarly, some may find the Holy Spirit and His gifts unfamiliar or even unappealing at first. But as we grow in faith, we develop a deeper hunger for the richness and depth of life with the Spirit.
What Is Prophecy?
Prophecy is not just for a select few. It’s not only for those who stand on a stage or hold a title. Paul writes, “Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy” (1 Corinthians 14:1, ESV). This is not a suggestion—it’s a command.
The Greek word for “desire” here conveys a deep longing, even a kind of holy jealousy. We’re told to yearn for prophecy.
Prophecy, at its core, is simply this: speaking what God spontaneously brings to mind. It may come as a word, scripture, picture, or impression that we then communicate to someone else for their strengthening, encouragement, or comfort (1 Corinthians 14:3, ESV).
Many believers have experienced this without realizing it. That moment when someone is unexpectedly on your heart, and you feel prompted to call or encourage them? That may well be the Holy Spirit inviting you into the gift of prophecy.
A Biblical Thread of Prophetic Partnership
From Genesis to Acts, we see the Spirit of God speaking through His people. In Genesis 1, creation begins when “God said…”—His word has power. In Numbers 11, the Spirit that was on Moses is shared with 70 elders who then prophesy. Moses even declares, “Would that all the LORD's people were prophets, that the LORD would put his Spirit on them!” (Numbers 11:29, ESV).
The prophet Joel foresaw this very reality: “I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy…” (Joel 2:28–29, ESV). This was fulfilled at Pentecost in Acts 2, where Peter proclaimed the time of visitation was over and the time of habitation—where the Holy Spirit dwells in all believers—had come.
Receiving and Practicing the Gift
The gift of prophecy is not about achieving elite spiritual status. It is about being open to the Spirit's voice and willing to speak His words. It's not about receiving presents from God, but receiving His presence—His nearness, His attention, His words for others.
Receiving prophetic insight often involves three steps:
Revelation: The initial word, picture, or impression from the Holy Spirit.
Interpretation: Understanding what it means.
Application: Knowing how to share it or respond to it.
We see this pattern in Acts 21. A prophet named Agabus receives a word about Paul’s coming suffering. While the interpretation is accurate, the application (urging Paul not to go to Jerusalem) is slightly off. Yet Paul doesn't reject the gift of prophecy altogether. Instead, he continues in obedience, recognizing the value of the prophetic word—even when its application needs discernment.
Prophecy Is for Today
One of the most powerful things about prophecy is that it reminds us God sees us and knows us. It breaks through the noise of life and speaks directly to the heart.
Whether it’s a specific scripture in a time of doubt, or a seemingly random word like “kangaroo” that unlocks a profound memory for someone, prophecy can be life-changing. The gifts of the Spirit are not gimmicks. They are grace. They are meant to edify and empower believers for every step of the journey.
How to Grow in Prophecy
Here are three practical ways to begin practicing prophecy in everyday life:
Sit and ask: In silence and solitude—whether on a drive, in the mountains, or before your family wakes—invite the Spirit to speak. Ask, “Lord, who do you want me to encourage today? What are You saying?”
Interpret what you hear: If you receive a name, image, or verse, ask the Lord for wisdom. Who is it for? Is it for now? Is it to be shared?
Be obedient: If it’s for someone, take the risk and share it. Use gentle, humble language like, “I feel like God might be saying…” Practice. We are not Old Testament prophets who must be perfect. We are New Covenant believers learning to walk in step with the Spirit.
Reflection Questions
When was the last time you felt prompted by God to encourage someone? How did you respond?
What holds you back from asking for or practicing the gift of prophecy?
Take 5 minutes in silence and ask the Holy Spirit: “Who do you want to encourage through me today?” Write down whatever comes to mind.