Devotional
for the Week - 19th November 2007
Sermon
Title: Prophecy: A Tool in Building Up the Body of Christ
Scripture
Texts: 1
Corinthians 14:2-40
Background
Paul in the book, 1st Corinthians, aims to bring believers into
a proper relationship with the Holy Spirit. In particular, Chapter
14 focuses on the method of using the gifts of the Spirit.
Characteristics of Prophecy
In general, there are 6 characteristics of prophecy for today:
1. Enduring
It is a gift that will operate until:
i. the church is mature
ii. attains the stature and character of Christ
iii. the return of Christ
iv. we see Him face to face
2.
Ministering (1 Corinthians 14:3)
“But everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strengthening,
encouragement and comfort.” Prophecy ministers to those
around us. On the other hand, it is crucial for us to understand
that the church is not a “blessing” club. The gift
is not for use as a personal horoscope and should not be used
for manipulation.
3.
Team Based (1 Corinthians 14:23-26)
A prophetic utterance from any member of a church can be great
confirmation of a preacher’s message. We must understand
that one man does not have it all and that it takes every “joint
supplies” to build the church up.
4.
Practical (1 Corinthians 14:3)
The gift is exceedingly practical. From 1 Corinthians 14:3,
“But everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strengthening,
encouragement and comfort”, we see that it is a gift that
builds up, stirs up and binds up. We also see from 1 Corinthians
14:25 that it is a gift that opens up for pre-believers: “[While]
everybody is prophesying, he will be convinced by all that he
is a sinner and will be judged by all, and the secrets of his
heart will be laid bare”. Finally, it is a gift that shapes
up. 1 Timothy 1:18 also teaches us that this gift is for shaping
up. As Paul tells Timothy, he must keep with the prophecies
once made about him, so that by following them he may fight
the good fight. Thus, this is a gift that allows us to keep
track of God’s promises and direction for individuals
and the church.
5.
Imperfect (1 Corinthians 13:9)
It is also an imperfect gift because it is incomplete in operation,
incomplete in revelation and needs to be tested and judged accordingly.
6.
Submitted
We need to understand that scripture is our “more sure
word of prophecy”. As Psalm 119:105 states, the Lord’s
word is a lamp unto our feet. We must test all prophecy against
the word of God since He will not contradict what He has already
written.
Prayer
Response:
Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for Your gifts of the Holy Spirit.
I pray that I may obey Your word by pursuing love and eagerly
desire spiritual gifts. Teach me to use all Your gifts wisely
and with discernment so that Your name always be glorified above
all. Amen.
Devotional based on a message by Rev Douglas Duncan