The Nature of Prophecy ...continued

Who should Prophesy?

Scripture is clear about who should prophesy:

1 Corinthians 14:31 "For you can all prophesy in turn so that everyone may be instructed and encouraged."

Yet it is important that we use wisdom in seeing who is prophesying. The character of the person who is speaking is important, as is what is actually being said. If the person is rebellious, transient or worldly, then anything said should be viewed carefully. However, if the message clearly speaks of things that the speaker cannot know naturally then obviously there is a need to weigh what is said.

Someone asked, "What about new or young Christians, should they be allowed to prophesy in the church?"

I think this must depend upon how well the pastor and his team have taught and prepared the congregation. If the church is a safe place and the members of the church are teachable then it is made easy for the new or young Christian to develop in their gifting within the church.

Unfortunately, many churches use small groups alone to develop the gifts of the Spirit, denying a platform to the gifts in the church itself as a whole.

There are safeguards that can be used to help in building a safe and teachable environment.

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