The Nature of Prophecy ...continued

Examples of Prophecy and their problems

By William Kay (used with permission)

ANSWER 1

1. You are a leader of a local congregation and one Sunday a stranger comes in to worship with you. He prophesies half way through the service in these terms, "Have you realised it? I am wanting you to know that the force of the infernal is too much for Apostleship, is too much even for the prophetical ministry: is too much for even faith; is too much even for miracles. The force of the infernal must be met by the combined action, oneness, unity-action of the body in the heavenly realms. Storm the strongholds of Satan! Why, my people, why have you not taken hold, even in the hint that I gave. I want you to wind up the age. You may say, 'We believe that there is a certain hour, and it must come to then!' But I tell you; you can become co-workers with me even to speed up, to wind up. But oh! Humanity! Humanity! Humanity! I am wanting even to wind up the age."

Here are some suggestions about the way you might proceed. You are aware that prophecy must be judged and so your suspicions are likely to be aroused by a visitor who, unannounced, attempts to play a major part in a local congregation. You do not know the moral standing or reputation of the stranger. He may be a spiritist or New Ager. So far as the content of the prophecy is concerned, you detect two main points: the power of Satan is too great for the ministry gifts of Christ and believes must work with God rather than being passive. The second thought may be true; the first is highly questionable.

Therefore, if you are one of the acknowledged leaders of the congregation, you should stand up, and perhaps after a brief consultation with other members of the leadership team, tell everyone present that they should ignore the prophecy they have heard. Indeed, you may wish to bring some positive teaching to counteract the effects of the prophecy. Later you can speak to the stranger and find out who he is and where he belongs.