A Gift for Today...continued

The Purpose of the Gift of 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.

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.

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.

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. 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;"

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