What is a prophet according to the Bible?

A prophet, according to the Bible, is a person chosen by God to deliver His messages to the people. The role of a prophet is multifaceted and deeply significant in the biblical narrative. Prophets serve as intermediaries between God and humanity, conveying divine revelations, warnings, guidance, and sometimes foretelling future events. They are often called to speak truth to power, challenge societal injustices, and call people back to faithfulness and obedience to God.

The term "prophet" comes from the Hebrew word "navi" (נָבִיא), which means "one who is called" or "one who announces." In the New Testament, the Greek word "prophetes" (προφήτης) is used, carrying a similar meaning. Prophets are not self-appointed; they are specifically chosen by God for their mission. This divine selection is crucial because it underscores that the authority of a prophet comes from God, not from human institutions or personal ambition.

The Calling and Role of Prophets

Prophets are often called in dramatic and unmistakable ways. For example, Moses encounters God through the burning bush (Exodus 3), and Isaiah receives his call through a vision of God in the temple (Isaiah 6). Jeremiah is told that he was chosen before he was born (Jeremiah 1:5). These call narratives highlight the divine initiative and the profound responsibility placed upon the prophet.

The primary role of a prophet is to be a spokesperson for God. This involves:

1. Revealing God's Will: Prophets communicate God's commands, intentions, and desires to the people. This can include moral and ethical teachings, as seen in the messages of Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel. These prophets often called the Israelites to repentance and adherence to the covenant established between God and His people.

2. Foretelling Future Events: Some prophets are given visions of future events. This aspect of prophecy is perhaps the most well-known but is not the sole function of a prophet. For instance, Daniel's visions in the Book of Daniel and John's revelations in the Book of Revelation provide apocalyptic insights into God's plan for the future.

3. Warning of Judgment: Prophets frequently warn of impending judgment due to the people's sins. For example, Jonah is sent to Nineveh to warn of its impending destruction unless the people repent (Jonah 3). Similarly, Amos warns Israel of the consequences of their social injustices and idolatry (Amos 5).

4. Interceding for the People: Prophets often act as intercessors, pleading with God on behalf of the people. Moses intercedes for Israel multiple times when God is ready to destroy them for their disobedience (Exodus 32:11-14, Numbers 14:13-19). This intercessory role underscores the prophet's deep connection with both God and the people.

Characteristics of a True Prophet

The Bible provides criteria to discern true prophets from false ones. Deuteronomy 18:21-22 states that if a prophet's predictions do not come to pass, they are not speaking from God. Additionally, Deuteronomy 13:1-5 warns that even if a prophet's signs come true, but they lead people away from Yahweh, they are false prophets. True prophets consistently align their messages with the revealed character and will of God.

True prophets also exhibit certain characteristics:

• Humility: They often resist their calling due to a sense of unworthiness or inadequacy. Moses argues with God about his ability to speak (Exodus 4:10-13), and Jeremiah protests that he is too young (Jeremiah 1:6).
• Courage: Prophets frequently face opposition, persecution, and even death for their messages. Elijah confronts King Ahab and the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18), and Jeremiah is thrown into a cistern for his prophecies (Jeremiah 38:6).
• Integrity: Prophets remain faithful to their mission despite personal cost. They do not alter their messages to please people or gain favor. Nathan courageously rebukes King David for his sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:1-14), and Amos denounces the wealthy elite of Israel for their exploitation of the poor (Amos 4:1-3).

The Prophetic Books

The Old Testament contains several books attributed to prophets, often divided into the Major Prophets (Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel) and the Minor Prophets (Hosea through Malachi). The distinction between Major and Minor Prophets is based on the length of their writings, not their importance.

These books not only record the prophets' messages but also provide historical context, showing how their prophecies were relevant to the circumstances of their times. For example, Isaiah's prophecies address the Assyrian threat, while Jeremiah's messages are set against the backdrop of the Babylonian exile.

The Prophetic Tradition in the New Testament

The prophetic tradition continues in the New Testament, though it takes on new dimensions with the coming of Jesus Christ. Jesus is often seen as the ultimate prophet, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies and embodying the perfect revelation of God. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah and declares that the prophecy is fulfilled in Him (Luke 4:17-21).

The New Testament also recognizes the ongoing role of prophets within the early church. In Ephesians 4:11, Paul lists prophets among the gifts Christ gave to the church. The Book of Acts mentions prophets like Agabus, who predicts a famine (Acts 11:27-28) and Paul's imprisonment (Acts 21:10-11).

Theological Significance

Theologically, prophets are essential for understanding God's interaction with humanity. They reveal God's character as just, merciful, and sovereign. Through their messages, we see God's desire for a relationship with His people and His commitment to righteousness and justice.

Prophets also highlight the importance of obedience and faithfulness. Their calls to repentance and warnings of judgment remind us that God takes sin seriously and that there are consequences for turning away from Him. At the same time, their messages of hope and restoration reveal God's unwavering love and His desire to redeem and restore His people.

Conclusion

In summary, a prophet according to the Bible is a divinely chosen messenger who communicates God's will to the people. Prophets play a crucial role in revealing God's character, intentions, and plans. They call people to repentance, warn of judgment, offer hope, and sometimes foretell future events. Their authority comes from God, and their messages are consistent with His revealed nature. Understanding the role and significance of prophets enriches our comprehension of the biblical narrative and God's ongoing relationship with humanity.