Prophets are a major part of the Bible, appearing throughout both the Old and New Testaments.
They were chosen by God to deliver His messages to the people, often warning them of consequences, offering guidance, and revealing God’s plans.
Some were widely accepted, while others faced rejection and persecution.
But what exactly does the Bible say about prophets?
How can we recognize true prophets, and does prophecy still exist today?
Understanding the role of prophets in Scripture helps us see how God speaks and moves among His people.
The Purpose of Prophets in the Bible
Prophets served as God’s messengers, speaking on His behalf to individuals, nations, and even future generations.
They were not self-appointed but were specifically chosen by God to deliver His words.
In Deuteronomy 18:18, God says, “I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their fellow Israelites, and I will put my words in his mouth.
He will tell them everything I command him.”
This shows that a prophet’s authority did not come from personal wisdom but directly from God.
Throughout the Old Testament, prophets played crucial roles in guiding Israel.
Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt and gave them God’s law.
Elijah called the nation back to God in a time of deep idolatry.
Isaiah and Jeremiah warned of coming judgment but also spoke of hope and restoration.
Their words were not always easy to hear, but they were always true.
Prophets did not just predict the future; they also called people to repentance and faithfulness.
They reminded Israel of God’s covenant and the consequences of disobedience.
Amos 3:7 declares, “Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets.”
This means that before major events happened, God often spoke through His prophets to prepare His people.
Characteristics of a True Prophet
Not everyone who claims to speak for God is truly sent by Him.
The Bible provides several tests for recognizing a true prophet.
First, a true prophet’s message aligns with God’s Word.
Deuteronomy 13:1-3 warns against false prophets who lead people away from God, even if they perform signs and wonders.
If a prophet’s teachings contradict Scripture, they are not from God.
Second, a true prophet’s words come true.
Deuteronomy 18:22 states, “If what a prophet proclaims in the name of the Lord does not take place or come true, that is a message the Lord has not spoken.”
A true prophet’s words will always be fulfilled because they come from God.
Third, a true prophet’s life reflects godly character.
Jesus warned in Matthew 7:15-16, “Watch out for false prophets.
They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.
By their fruit, you will recognize them.”
A genuine prophet will demonstrate humility, integrity, and faithfulness to God.
False Prophets and Their Dangers
The Bible repeatedly warns about false prophets who deceive people for personal gain or lead them away from God.
Jeremiah 23:16 says, “Do not listen to what the prophets are prophesying to you; they fill you with false hopes.
They speak visions from their own minds, not from the mouth of the Lord.”
These individuals claim to hear from God but deliver messages that suit their own desires or mislead others.
Jesus also spoke strongly against false prophets.
In Matthew 24:11, He said, “Many false prophets will appear and deceive many people.”
This warning reminds us to test every message against Scripture and not be easily swayed by those who claim divine authority.
2 Peter 2:1-3 describes false teachers who exploit people for money and personal power.
This is why it is important to compare what someone says with the Bible and seek God’s wisdom before believing every claim.
Prophets in the New Testament
While the Old Testament is filled with prophets like Elijah, Isaiah, and Daniel, the New Testament also speaks of prophecy.
John the Baptist was called the greatest of the prophets (Luke 7:28) because he prepared the way for Jesus.
Jesus Himself was recognized as a prophet, though He was far more than that—He was the Son of God.
After Jesus’ resurrection, prophecy continued in the early church.
Acts 2:17-18 quotes Joel’s prophecy, saying, “In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.
Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy.”
This passage shows that prophecy did not end with the Old Testament but continued into the church age.
The apostle Paul also recognized prophecy as a spiritual gift.
In 1 Corinthians 14:1, he encouraged believers to “eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy.”
However, he also gave guidelines for how prophecy should be tested and used for building up the church.
Are There Prophets Today?
The question of whether prophets still exist today is often debated among Christians.
Some believe that prophecy continues and that God still speaks through individuals.
Others believe that prophecy ceased after the completion of the Bible.
Regardless of one’s view, Scripture makes it clear that every prophetic message must be tested.
1 John 4:1 advises, “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
Even if someone claims to speak for God, their words must align with Scripture.
Additionally, prophecy should not be seen as a replacement for the Bible.
God’s Word is complete, and everything we need for faith and salvation is already revealed in Scripture.
While God may still lead and guide His people, any new revelation must be consistent with His written Word.
The Ultimate Prophet: Jesus Christ
Of all the prophets in the Bible, Jesus is the greatest.
While other prophets spoke about God, Jesus was God in the flesh.
Hebrews 1:1-2 declares, “In the past, God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days, he has spoken to us by his Son.”
Jesus not only revealed God’s will, but He also fulfilled the prophecies of the Old Testament.
He is the promised Messiah, the one who would bring salvation to the world.
Moses predicted the coming of a great prophet in Deuteronomy 18:15, saying, “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your fellow Israelites.
You must listen to him.”
This prophecy was fulfilled in Jesus, who came to bring the ultimate message of truth and salvation.
Final Thoughts
The Bible speaks extensively about prophets, their roles, and the importance of their messages.
True prophets were chosen by God to guide, warn, and reveal His plans to the people.
However, Scripture also warns against false prophets who mislead and deceive.
Even in the New Testament, prophecy played a role in the early church, and believers were encouraged to test every message against God’s Word.
While the debate about modern prophecy continues, one thing is certain—Jesus Christ is the ultimate prophet, revealing the fullness of God’s truth.
By studying the Bible and seeking wisdom, believers can discern God’s voice and remain faithful to His unchanging Word.