In the Bible, the term “prophet” carries significant weight, representing individuals entrusted with a divine mission. But What Is A Prophet in the biblical context? Essentially, a prophet is someone who speaks on behalf of God, delivering His messages, guidance, and warnings to people. This role is not merely about predicting the future; it’s fundamentally about communicating God’s truth.
The word “prophet” originates from the Greek “prophetes,” meaning “one who speaks forth” or “spokesperson.” They are also referred to as “seers,” highlighting their spiritual insight and sometimes, their ability to perceive future events. Biblical prophets served a dual purpose: teaching God’s principles for daily life and revealing God’s plans, which could include future occurrences. The prophet Isaiah exemplifies this, courageously addressing the societal corruption of his time (Isaiah 1:4) while also sharing inspiring visions of Israel’s future restoration (Isaiah 25:8).
Prophets were crucial figures in guiding the nation of Israel and laying the foundation for the church. The early church is described as “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone” (Ephesians 2:20). This emphasizes the foundational importance of both apostles and prophets in God’s plan.
The Bible mentions over 133 named prophets, including 16 women, and countless others who prophesied. Abraham holds the distinction of being the first person explicitly called a prophet in the Bible. In Genesis 20:7, God refers to Abraham as a prophet when speaking to Abimelech, saying, “Now then, return the man’s wife, for he is a prophet; he will pray for you and you will live.” This highlights the intercessory role of a prophet and God’s direct communication with Abraham.
Abraham’s descendants, Jacob and Joseph, also received prophetic dreams concerning the future. Moses is revered as a “man of God” and a great prophet (Deuteronomy 34:10), leading Israel and receiving God’s law. Joshua, succeeding Moses, and many of the judges also functioned prophetically. Samuel, the last judge, heard God’s voice as a child (1 Samuel 3:4) and later anointed David, who himself served as both king and prophet.
The eras of Elijah and Elisha were marked by intense prophetic activity. Schools of prophets emerged during this time (1 Kings 20:35), indicating a structured prophetic ministry. Both Elijah and Elisha were known for performing numerous miracles, validating their divine commission.
In the New Testament, John the Baptist prophesied the coming of the Messiah (Matthew 3:1). Jesus Christ Himself came as the ultimate Prophet, Priest, King, and Messiah, fulfilling numerous Old Testament messianic prophecies. His teachings and life were the ultimate prophetic word.
The early church also recognized and valued the gift of prophecy. Ananias received a prophecy concerning the Apostle Paul’s future ministry (Acts 9:10–18). Acts 21:9 mentions Philip’s four daughters who prophesied. The gift of prophecy is listed among the spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12 and 14, highlighting its ongoing relevance in the church. Even in the end times, the book of Revelation speaks of two witnesses who will prophesy in Jerusalem (Revelation 11).
However, the history of prophets is often marked by rejection. Isaiah described his people as “rebellious children, children who are unwilling to listen to the Lord’s instruction. They say to the seers, ‘See no more visions!’ and to the prophets, ‘Give us no more visions of what is right! Tell us pleasant things, prophesy illusions'” (Isaiah 30:9–10). Jesus lamented Jerusalem’s history of rejecting and even killing the prophets sent to them (Luke 13:34).
It’s crucial to distinguish between true and false prophets. Not everyone claiming to speak for God is genuinely divinely inspired. The Bible warns against false prophets who deceive rather than guide. King Ahab employed 400 false prophets who catered to his desires (2 Chronicles 18:4; cf. 2 Timothy 4:3). Jesus cautioned, “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves” (Matthew 7:15). He also forewarned that in the end times, “false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect” (Matthew 24:24). Revelation further describes a false prophet arising during the Tribulation to deceive the world (Revelation 16:13; 19:20; 20:10). Therefore, discernment is essential. We are urged to “test the spirits to see whether they are from God” (1 John 4:1).
A true prophet of God remains committed to speaking God’s unaltered truth. They will never contradict God’s revealed Word in Scripture. Like the prophet Micaiah, who declared to Ahab, “As surely as the Lord lives, I can tell him only what my God says” (2 Chronicles 18:13), true prophets prioritize divine faithfulness above all else.
For Further Study:
- Are Miraculous Gifts for Today – Four Views edited by Wayne Grudem
- More insights from your Bible study – Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free!
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- What was a seer in the Bible?
- How many prophets are in the Bible?
- Are there prophets in the church today?
- What was a prophet in the Old Testament?
- What is a prophetess? Does the Bible mention any prophetesses?
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What is a prophet in the Bible?
