The Nature of Prophecy ...continued
The scope and types of Prophecy - The scope of Prophecy
The scope of prophecy may be seen as the outlook or
range of different people groups to whom the prophetic word may apply.
Here we identify some of the people groups and given
some thoughts about their administration.
Self
If, or should I say, when we hear God
speak to us in that prophetic way, it is important to speak it out, so that the
prophecy may be weighed by those leaders you trust and respect, that they may
give guidance.
Individual
This is to a named individual
and care must be taken not to share the prophecy over the telephone or in
writing. It should be shared in a way and in a place where others who are known
to move in the prophetic or the church leadership can weigh it.
This
caution may be unnecessary and even restrictive. However, personal prophecies
can sometimes lead to disaster if they are directive or inaccurate. Love will
always show due concern for the well-being of the recipient.
Group
This is a safer option but care
should still be taken as to the make up of the group, and one should as far as
possible ensure that people of sufficient maturity and experience are present
to enable the prophecy to be weighed in a sound and safe manner. If this is a
group that makes up part of the church then some record of the word should be
made and this record made available to the church leadership.
Church
There are two areas here. If the
word is for the encouragement or the comfort of the church it should be given
during the main service of the church under the guidance of the leadership, or
during the service in which the word has been received. Church leaders should
have a process for the giving of such words and this should be followed at the
direction of the person leading the particular service. If, however, the word
is directive to the church it should be given to and left with the church
leadership for their prayerful consideration and not given publicly.
Town or City
It would seem obvious for the
prophetic word to be given to those with the authority under God to act
appropriately and or in obedience to the prophetic word. This may be the town
or city council or to those pastors who are present at a meeting as the
representatives of God's people. Leaders having a recognised ministry within a
town or city and with the necessary spiritual experience and authority should
weigh any such word before it is given.
County or Nation
I am not sure that I have
the necessary experience or credentials to offer an opinion on best practice in
this area. However, certain things are clear; such prophecy is for those with
the authority under God to act appropriately and or in obedience to the
prophetic word. It is vital that prophetic words of this kind are weighed by
recognised spiritual leaders with a county or nationwide ministry.
 Previous Next
|
