Having the gift of prophecy and being appointed by God to the office of a prophet are two different things. So, let’s have a look at these distinctions.
The Gift of Prophecy
Those who have the gift of prophecy are those who make known the mind, will and intention of God. Only some believers function in the gift of prophecy, however we can all eagerly desire it. The gift of prophecy must always reveal God’s will and God’s heartbeat. As with any spiritual gift, there are different expressions and levels of operation within the gift of prophecy. The gift of prophecy may include speaking out or writing God’s “Now Word”, the burden of His heart; or declaring those things that God sees taking place in the future.
The Office of a Prophet
A Prophet is one that, along with the Apostle, has a senior role of direction and influence in the Body of Christ. The office of a prophet has a different distinction to the gift of prophecy in that it is a specific role, rather than just a gift. Many who have the gift of prophecy are not prophets, including those who may be finely tuned and are quite seasoned in its operation. In Jeremiah 1:4-10 we see a biblical example and personal commission, which gives insight into the distinctions between the office of a prophet and the gift of prophecy.
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A Prophet is ordained by God
We cannot make someone a prophet; God calls and appoints them. It’s a God-thing! Jeremiah 1:5 says, “I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” We can’t just nominate someone because we believe they should have this role.
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A Prophet is directed by divine appointment
Jeremiah 1:7 says, “You must go to everyone I send you.” A prophet is directed by God, not led to where the best opportunities may be. While a prophet may minister via invitation, it has been sufficiently prayed through to ensure this is a divine appointment on God’s calendar.
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A Prophet speaks whatever the Lord declares
A prophet is not chosen because of communication skills, but rather their ability to hear God’s voice and accurately communicate what Father intends to say. Jeremiah 1:7 says, “Say whatever I command you” and verse 9 says, “I have put My words in your mouth.”
Qualities seen in the Office of a Prophet
Those who are graced in the Office of a prophet are those who:
- Love God’s heart and love His people
- Have intimate relationship with the Lord
- Have history with God in the secret place
- Have bold faith and courage, yet are sensitive to the Holy Spirit
- Are ablaze with holy fire against the forces of hell yet tenderly reach out to protect God’s flock
- Reflect God’s heart and His countenance
- Are mindful of their own human frailty and have a humble heart
- Are fully dependant on God’s grace
- Have a heart to serve and equip the Church
- Are a lover of righteousness and one who hates sin
The Office of a Prophet is specifically ordained by God and is directed by God’s divine appointment. Therefore, the function of a prophet is to communicate clearly what God intends to say. Essentially, a prophet is one that speaks on behalf of God. If this is so, there comes with it an awesome responsibility to also accurately represent God’s heart.
The Church of the 21st century has a desperate need to hear the clear voice of the Lord. For this to be a reality, the Church will need to hear both God’s heart and His word. Therefore, God must have vessels that are able to accurately hear His voice and intimately know the passions and concerns of His heart.
