By Andrew Williams
Series: The Year of the Prophet- Month 1: The Anatomy of a Prophet
Week 2: Distinction and Definition
Anchor Scripture: “…. Worship God [alone]. For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy [His life and teaching are the heart of prophecy].” Revelation 19:10
The Teaching
In our journey to understand the office of the prophet, we must distinguish between the person and the atmosphere. Scripture speaks of the “spirit of prophecy.” This is not a human office or a specific gift; it is a divine climate. It is the spiritual “weather” that occurs when the testimony of Jesus is being lifted up.
When a group of believers gathers and begins to testify of the goodness, the power, and the nature of Christ, an atmosphere is created where prophecy becomes “easy.” In such moments, even those who have never prophesied before may suddenly find themselves speaking by the Spirit. This is because the “Spirit of Prophecy” is the environment where Jesus is the central focus.
The Prophet (the office), however, is the steward of this atmosphere. While the “spirit of prophecy” can come and go based on the intensity of worship or the focus of the room, the Office of the Prophet is a permanent gift set in the Church to ensure that the testimony of Jesus remains the standard. The Prophet doesn’t just “feel” the atmosphere; they are called to create and guard it. They ensure that the prophetic words being released in the “spirit of prophecy” are actually pointing back to the Person of Christ and not drifting into soulishness or self-exaltation.
Prophetic Insight
A true prophet is a “Jesus-manifestor.” If you are called to the office, your presence should naturally stir the “spirit of prophecy” in others. When you walk into a room, the focus should eventually shift to Christ. If your “prophetic ministry” makes people focus more on your accuracy, your mystery, or your “anointing” than on the testimony of Jesus, you are operating in a gift, but you may be grieving the office. The goal of every prophet is to be so hidden behind the Cross that only the Testimony of Jesus is seen.
The Activation
Today, focus entirely on the “Testimony of Jesus.” Throughout your day, whenever you speak to someone, try to mention a specific way Jesus has been faithful to you. Notice how this “testifying” changes the spiritual climate around you. You are activating the “spirit of prophecy” simply by making Jesus the center of your conversation.
Daily Prayer: Lord Jesus, I worship You! I declare that You are the center of all things. I thank You for the ‘spirit of prophecy’ that flows whenever Your name is magnified. I ask that You would use me to steward an atmosphere where Your testimony is the loudest voice. Let every word I speak and every insight I receive point directly back to You. Amen.
