By Andrew Williams
Series: The Year of the Prophet- Month 1: The Anatomy of a Prophet
Week 2: Distinction and Definition
Anchor Scripture: “For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and all may be encouraged… Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers?” — 1 Corinthians 14:31; 12:29 (NKJV)
The Teaching
As we move into our second week, we must clear up one of the most common points of confusion in the modern Church: the difference between the gift of prophecy and the office of the prophet.
In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul encourages the entire church to “desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.” He makes it clear that all believers have the potential to receive a word from the Spirit to encourage others. However, in 1 Corinthians 12 and Ephesians 4, he asks rhetorically, “Are all prophets?” The answer is a resounding no.
The gift of prophecy is an ability given by the Holy Spirit to a believer for a specific moment (1 Cor. 12:10). The office of the prophet is a government given by Jesus—a person who is set in the foundation of the Church (Eph. 4:11). While everyone can (and should) exercise the gift of prophecy to encourage, only a few are called to the office. The person in the office carries a different level of authority, a greater weight of responsibility, and a life-long mandate to equip the Body and provide spiritual direction. You might have the gift, but that does not mean you occupy the office. Knowing where you stand is the key to operating with humility and staying in your divine lane.
Prophetic Insight
The gift is for the moment, but the office is for the movement. If you have the gift of prophecy, you are like someone who can provide a glass of water to someone who is thirsty—it is refreshing and necessary. But if you are called to the office, you are the well itself. You don’t just “have” a word; you live in a constant state of prophetic awareness. You are not just used by God to speak; you are used by God to build. Understanding this distinction prevents “prophetic pride” for those with the gift and “prophetic burnout” for those in the office.
The Activation
Reflect on your prophetic journey. Do you find that you occasionally receive words of encouragement for others, or do you find that your entire life is consumed by a “burden” for the Church, a deep sight into spiritual structures, and a consistent call to bring order? Ask the Holy Spirit today: “Lord, help me to see my placement. Am I called to exercise the gift, or am I called to the office? Teach me to honor both.”
Daily Prayer: Lord Jesus, I thank You for the diversity of Your Body. I thank You for the gift of prophecy that encourages Your people, and I thank You for the Office of the Prophet that builds Your Church. Help me to be content in my assignment. If I have the gift, let me use it with love. If I am called to the office, give me the strength and character to carry the mantle. Let there be no confusion in my spirit, but only clarity and grace. Amen.
