In the New Testament (NT), prophecy is both a gift and a ministry. Unlike the Old Testament model, where prophets often held exclusive access to God’s voice for the people, the NT church reveals a more widespread prophetic activity among believers. This shift is anchored in Acts 2:17 (NASB): “And it shall be in the last days,” God says, “That I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind; And your sons and your daughters will prophesy…” Prophecy becomes a common manifestation of the indwelling Holy Spirit.
Key aspects of prophecy in the NT Church:
- Edification, exhortation, and consolation (1 Corinthians 14:3 NASB). Prophecy in the church is primarily for the building up of others—encouraging, calling forth, and comforting.
- Accessible and orderly: “For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all may be exhorted” (1 Corinthians 14:31 NASB). The gift is not limited to a few but made available to many.
- Tested, not blindly followed: Unlike OT prophets who spoke with unchallenged authority, NT prophecy is subject to discernment: “Do not despise prophetic utterances. But examine everything; hold firmly to that which is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:20–21 NASB).
- Distinguished from the office of prophet: While many may prophesy, Ephesians 4:11 notes that Christ specifically gives some to the church as prophets. These individuals carry a greater mantle of responsibility and often operate in consistent revelation, foundational roles, or regional influence.
The prophetic voice in the NT church is ultimately a testimony of Yeshua. Revelation 19:10 (NASB) says, “For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” It’s not about future-telling alone; it’s about revealing the heart, purposes, and presence of Yeshua to His people.
The Office of the Prophet vs. the Gift of Prophecy
A clear contrast must be made:
| Office of Prophet | Gift of Prophecy |
|---|---|
| Part of the fivefold ministry (Eph. 4:11) | One of the gifts of the Spirit (1 Cor. 12:10) |
| Carries governmental authority within the church | Operates under local church authority |
| Often directional or foundational (Acts 13:1–3) | Primarily for strengthening, encouragement, comfort |
| Tested by fruit and longevity | Tested by content and discernment in the moment |
| Long-term development and calling | May be used occasionally or seasonally |
A prophet may function with visions, dreams, divine warnings, and strong directional insight, like Agabus, who prophesied a famine and warned Paul of persecution (Acts 11:27–30; Acts 21:10–11).
What Are Words of Knowledge?
Words of knowledge are another gift of the Spirit, distinct from prophecy, yet often operating together. 1 Corinthians 12:8 (NASB) says: “For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, and to another the word of knowledge according to the same Spirit.”
A word of knowledge is a supernatural insight into a fact or reality the speaker could not have naturally known. It’s not future-oriented like prophecy often is, but present or past-focused, often unlocking faith or repentance.
Examples:
- Yeshua tells the woman at the well that she had five husbands (John 4:16–19).
- Peter confronts Ananias and Sapphira about their lie (Acts 5:1–4).
- Paul knows that a man has faith to be healed (Acts 14:9–10).
Contrasting Prophecy and Words of Knowledge
| Prophecy | Word of Knowledge |
|---|---|
| Often future-focused or directive | Usually present or past-focused |
| Brings encouragement, direction, or warning | Reveals hidden facts to unlock hearts or faith |
| Can be general for a group or specific to a person | Often specific and personal |
| May call someone into a future they didn’t see | May reveal something they thought was hidden |
Words of knowledge often prepare the way for prophecy. A person hears a fact only God could know—this stirs their heart. Then, prophecy can flow, giving them direction or encouragement. It’s like a divine one-two punch.
A Church Gathering
Imagine a gathering where a woman is struggling privately with fear. The Spirit gives someone a word of knowledge: “There’s someone here who hasn’t slept peacefully in three nights because of dread.” That person is identified and feels exposed—in a good way. Then prophecy comes: “The Lord says, ‘You are not alone. I have stood by your bed. I am driving out fear and giving you peace tonight.’”
Both gifts worked together—word of knowledge revealed the situation, and prophecy revealed the heart of God.
Conclusion: Prophecy in the New Testament Church
Prophecy in the New Testament Church is vital, powerful, and accessible. It must be sought with humility, tested with Scripture, and permanently anchored in the person of Yeshua. The Lord desires His people not just to hear sermons, but to hear His voice. As we hunger for more of Him and press into the Spirit’s leading, both prophets and words of knowledgehelp the church grow in love, unity, and holiness.
Prayer
Father YHVH, we thank You for pouring out Your Spirit in these last days. Let prophecy rise again in purity and power. Cleanse us of pride or fear, and train our ears to hear Your voice clearly. Let the gifts of the Spirit not be rare among us, but normal, humbling us with awe. Use us to encourage, convict, and lead others back to Yeshua. We want more of You and less of us. Teach us to speak what You are saying and to listen with trembling hearts. In the name of Yeshua our Messiah, Amen.