Three Reasons Why God Raises Prophets

Introduction

In today’s world, the prophetic ministry has gained popularity, often seen as a quick path to fame. People flock to those who claim to have insight into their lives.

In biblical times, prophets were not popular figures. They were God’s rapid men of action, raised to deliver His word in times of crisis. Consequently, people often disliked them for their messages and what they represented, especially when they confronted the sins of leaders.

The modern fascination with prophecy can make serious Bible students uneasy.

Here are three main reasons why prophets were called in the Bible:

1. To Rebuke God’s People for Their Sins

The primary reason God raised prophets was to rebuke people for their unrighteous conduct. From the Old Testament prophets to John the Baptist, they spoke against the sins of the people. For example, when King David sinned (Psalm 51), God sent Prophet Nathan to hold him accountable. No one was exempt from their scrutiny.

Today’s prophets should emulate this role. They must not show favouritism or condone sins, regardless of a person’s power. They should seek God’s wisdom to speak the truth, whether to commoners or the powerful, fulfilling their role as the light of the world and the salt of the earth.

2. To Remind God’s People of the Law of God

Another reason God chose prophets was to remind people of His commandments. They were tasked with calling the people back to God’s word. The law given through Moses was the foundation for individual lives and national development. Upholding righteousness depended on adherence to God’s law.

Modern prophets should remind God’s people of His unchanging word. Their messages should uphold the Bible as the ultimate guide for living rightly before God.

3. To Reveal God’s Plans to the People

A crucial aspect of the prophetic ministry was to reveal God’s intentions regarding judgment or reward. Isaiah, for instance, prophesied doom for the nation due to their rejection of God and idolatry but also offered comfort to the faithful.

Contemporary prophets should reveal the consequences for the wicked and the rewards for the righteous. This helps people understand that there is an ultimate Judge who cannot be bribed. A day is coming when Christ will appear in the clouds, and all eyes will see Him. He will judge the living and the dead based on how they lived.

Conclusion

The prophetic ministry has not ceased, despite some beliefs to the contrary. The Scriptures do not suggest that we should stop speaking about rebuke, the word, and future events. We must uphold biblical fidelity to remain faithful to God, who calls some to be like Samuel, Isaiah, and Jeremiah.

What is the word of God to the Prophet about his or her work? Jeremiah 1:10 (NKJV) says,

“See, I have this day set you over the nations and over the kingdoms, To root out and to pull down, To destroy and to throw down, To build and to plant.””

I would love to hear your thoughts on this subject. Please leave a comment in the section below.

Eric Otchere is committed to declaring the whole counsel of God through systematic preaching and writing. Connect with him via info@livingourbible.com.