Functions of New Testament Prophets

 Sabbath School

The Gift of Prophecy 

Old Testament Prophets 

Lesson 4 - Tuesday

The Purpose of New Testament Prophets

Encouragement, spiritual growth, and faithfulness to God's Word

Key Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 14:3, Ephesians 4:11–13, Revelation 22:6

God has always used prophets to communicate His message to His people. Although their circumstances and responsibilities varied, their purpose was not to draw attention to themselves but to help people understand God's will and remain faithful to Him.

In 1 Corinthians 14:3, Paul explains that the person who prophesies speaks to people for their “edification and exhortation and comfort” (NKJV). These three words reveal something important about the prophetic gift. Edification means building people up in their faith. Exhortation means encouraging and urging them to follow God's will. Comfort means strengthening those who are discouraged, hurting, or struggling. True prophetic ministry was meant to help people grow closer to God, not leave them frightened, confused, or dependent on a human messenger.

In Ephesians 4:11–13, Paul explains that Christ gave prophets, apostles, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip God's people for ministry and build up the body of Christ. The goal was spiritual maturity, unity in the faith, and a deeper knowledge of Jesus. Notice that the purpose of these gifts was not to elevate certain individuals above everyone else. Instead, God gave them to strengthen the entire church. A prophet's message should help believers grow in their understanding of Christ and become better prepared to serve Him.

Revelation 22:6 adds another important truth. It tells us that the Lord God of the holy prophets sent His angel to show His servants the things that must shortly take place. Prophets were messengers entrusted with God's words. Their responsibility was to communicate what God revealed, not simply share their own opinions or predictions. Their messages could warn people about danger, provide guidance during difficult times, and offer hope concerning God's plans for the future.

What does this mean for us today? We should recognize that the true purpose of any spiritual gift is to bring people closer to Jesus and strengthen His church. We should also test spiritual claims against Scripture rather than accepting every message simply because someone claims to speak for God. A message that builds up the church will never require us to abandon the truth God has already revealed in His Word.

There is also a personal lesson here. Even if we have never been called to be prophets, we can still practice the qualities Paul describes. We can encourage someone who is discouraged, strengthen someone who is struggling, and share God's truth with love and humility. We may never stand before a congregation or receive a special revelation, but our words can still help others grow in faith.

God's purpose has always been to lead His people into a closer relationship with Him. The prophetic gift served that purpose, and so should every ministry in His church. The question is not whether we can impress others with our knowledge or abilities, but whether we are helping people know Jesus, trust His Word, and grow toward spiritual maturity.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the ways You have guided Your people through Your Word and the messengers You have called. Help us understand the purpose of the prophetic gift and recognize its value in strengthening Your church. Give us wisdom to test every message by Scripture and humility to accept Your truth, even when it challenges us. Teach us to use our own words to encourage the discouraged, strengthen the weak, and build others up in faith. May everything we do point people to Jesus and help us grow toward spiritual maturity in Him. In Jesus' name, Amen.

More on Lesson 4: New Testament Prophets 


4th Quarter Sabbath School: The Gift of Prophecy 

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