Growing In The Apostolic

Growing in the Prophetic
But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and
comfort to men. . . . For you can all prophesy one by one, that all
may learn and . . . be encouraged.
—1 Corinthians 14:3, 31
These are often simple impressions that God brings to mind. These include
words of knowledge (i.e., specific information regarding the physical, spiritual,
or emotional status of someone). Occasionally, this includes receiving
“visions” (mental pictures) or dreams. The person giving the prophecy speaks
(mostly using his or her own words) an idea that God had brought to mind.
These words are given in a small group setting or in the ministry line (not
publicly on the mic). Small groups can afford opportunity for more people
to experience and participate in this kind of prophesying. The inspirational
prophetic words are edifying when given by prophetic singers. It’s best to
limit the number of prophecies used in a public service so that its overuse
does not ruin its effectiveness.
2. Prophetic gifting
Believers who regularly receive impressions, dreams, visions, or other types
of revelation have prophetic gifting. These can often be symbolic, being in
the form of parables and riddles. This group receives more regular prophetic
information than the first group yet lacks clarity in understanding what they
receive. I have met many people at levels 1 and 2; these groups account for
the vast majority of those who prophesy in charismatic-type churches.
3. Prophetic ministry
Believers whose gifting has been recognized, nurtured, and commissioned
for regular ministry in the local church are in prophetic ministry. There is
still a symbolic element in what they receive, but through the process of
team ministry, it is possible to discern much of the interpretation and application
of their revelation. Those in prophetic ministry will receive words
and dreams on a regular basis and will have “open visions” on occasion
(i.e., angelic visitations, audible voice). They will sometimes receive detailed
information such as names, faces, dates, and future events. They occasionally
operate in other sign gifts (healing, miracles, deliverance). They may, in
private, expose unconfessed sin (2 Sam. 12:1–7). They give simple prophecies
yet also give direction and correction. These people are “gifted” in that
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