Using the Prophetic in Church

Why share prophecy

1 Cor 14:3 But everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort.
1 Cor 14:4 He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church.

Below are preaching notes of Roger Pawsey

a) Strengthening (EDIFICATION) 'oikdome' = to build up as building an edifice. To build up/establish/confirm the church. 1 Cor.14:4,5,9,12,26,31.

Not personal (not to self to build up self) but to the Church. The prophet, however, may operate outside the local Church. Words of Personal prophecy!!!!!

b) Encouragement (EXHORTATION) 'paraklesis' = a calling to one's side to help. The Holy Spirit is the paraclete and He can comfort through this gift. Comfort through strengthening. (cp.Luke 22:43)

Luke 22:43 An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. Luke 22:44 And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.

c) COMFORT 'paramuthia' = to draw near to, speaking soothing, consoling words. Has more tenderness than exhortation.

SO the purposes of the gift of prophecy are for
    (a) building up
    (b) stirring up and
    (c) cheering up.

They are not for destruction, criticism and demolition.

d) WORSHIP sometimes this threefold purpose (1 Cor.14:3) comes through prophecy as praise, worship and prayer.

1 Cor 14:3 But everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort.

Such as: Psalm 150 - inspired utterance in praise

Prophecy with the guitar
1 Chron.25:1. (NAS) Moreover, David and the commanders of the army set apart for the service {some} of the sons of Asaph and of Heman and of Jeduthun, who {were} to prophesy with lyres, harps, and cymbals;

However if the motivation to prophesy is not based in or flowing from love then it is nothing and is doubtful that it is in anyway prophetic.

1 Corinthians 13:2 "If I have the gift of prophecy and ……., but have not love, I am nothing."

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