PROPHECY: UNLEASHED!

Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets (Amos 3:7, KJV)

ABSTRACT

In a world shrouded in uncertainty and moral ambiguity, divine guidance shines as a beacon of hope and clarity. God provides humanity with the gift of prophecy as a vital compass to navigate life’s challenges, ensuring His people remain anchored in truth. This article delves into the origins, role, testing, blessings, and responsibilities of prophecy, emphasizing its enduring relevance for the remnant church in preparing for Christ’s return. Through Scripture and inspired writings, it affirms prophecy as a manifestation of God’s love, calling us to embrace and share this heavenly endowment.

AWAKEN TO HEAVEN’S GUIDANCE!

In a world often draped in shadows of uncertainty and moral ambiguity, divine guidance emerges as a radiant beam of hope. Has God left humanity adrift in a sea of confusion, or has He lovingly provided a compass to navigate the treacherous waters of life? Indeed, through the ages, God’s voice has echoed through prophets, sentinels of truth tasked with illuminating the path for His people. This gift of prophecy, far from being an antiquated relic of bygone eras, stands as a vibrant, pulsating beacon in our contemporary world, especially for the remnant church. We shoulder the profound responsibility to not only grasp but also to disseminate and embody this celestial gift. In the ensuing discourse, we shall delve into the scriptural bedrock of prophecy, explore its vital role, discern its authentic marks, and understand its transformative power in our lives. Through the lens of Holy Writ, the Spirit of Prophecy, and the wisdom of pioneers, we shall embark on a journey to understand why prophecy remains utterly essential in preparing a people for the imminent return of our Lord Jesus Christ. God communicates through prophets to reveal His will, as Nehemiah 9:30 declares, “Yet many years didst thou forbear them, and testifiedst against them by thy spirit in thy prophets: yet would they not give ear: therefore gavest thou them into the hand of the people of the lands.” Prophecy persists as God’s method to guide His people, echoed in Zechariah 7:12, “Yea, they made their hearts as an adamant stone, lest they should hear the law, and the words which the Lord of hosts hath sent in his spirit by the former prophets: therefore came a great wrath from the Lord of hosts.” Ellen G. White explains that since the great apostasy these gifts have rarely been manifested; and this is probably the reason why professed Christians generally believe that they were limited to the period of the primitive church. But is it not on account of the errors and unbelief of the church that the gifts have ceased? And when the people of God shall attain to primitive faith and practice, as they certainly will by the proclamation of the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, will not ‘the latter rain’ again develop the gifts? (Spiritual Gifts, vol. 1, 5, 1858). She adds that in 1 Corinthians 12:28, we are informed that God hath set, placed or fixed, certain spiritual gifts in the church. In the absence of any scriptural proof that he has removed or abolished them, we must think they were intended to remain (Spiritual Gifts, vol. 1, 7, 1858). Are we ready to embark on this illuminating quest?

DIVINE ORIGINS REVEALED!

From the celestial heights of divine wisdom and boundless love, the gift of prophecy descends as a precious endowment to the church. Did this gift arise from human ingenuity, or is it a direct impartation from the very heart of God? The apostle Paul unequivocally states, “And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues” (1 Corinthians 12:28). Behold, it is God Himself who strategically places prophets within the church, not as mere figureheads, but as vital organs in the body of Christ. Reflecting this divine generosity, Ephesians declares that Christ “gave gifts unto men” (Ephesians 4:8), gifts purpose-built “for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12). James 1:17 further illuminates this truth, stating, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” Indeed, prophecy, being a perfect and good gift, originates from the unchanging, benevolent nature of God. Furthermore, John 3:16 proclaims, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” This ultimate gift of salvation is paralleled by the gift of prophecy; both are born from divine love, intended to secure our eternal well-being. Ellen G. White profoundly states, “Gifts are promised to all who will become My witnesses, and gifts are not merely for a few especially favored ones, but for every believer in Christ.” (The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, 1027). This underscores the widespread availability and intention of spiritual gifts, including prophecy, for all of us. She further elaborates, “The Lord imparts his gifts to men, making them his agents to work for the salvation of souls.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 295). Sr. White echoes this truth, writing, “God has placed in the church, as helps, those who are fitted to be pastors and teachers and evangelists, that the people may be strengthened and blessed and helped to do the work of God in the world” (Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 459). God raises prophets to speak His words directly, as Deuteronomy 18:18 affirms, “I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him.” The Holy Spirit moves holy men to prophesy, according to 2 Peter 1:21, “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” Sr. White writes that the Scriptures point out various channels through which the Holy Spirit would operate on the hearts and minds of men to enlighten their understanding and guide their steps. Among these were visions and dreams (Patriarchs and Prophets, 20, 1890). She notes that if the operation of the spirit of prophecy has at times seemed almost to disappear, as the spirituality of the people waned, it has nevertheless marked all the great crises in the experience of the church, and the epochs which witnessed the change from one dispensation to another (Patriarchs and Prophets, 21, 1890). Imagine a shepherd without a staff or a ship without a rudder—the church without prophecy would be similarly vulnerable, tossed about by every wind of doctrine. It is from God’s profound love that this gift flows, a testament to His unwavering commitment to guide and safeguard His children until the grand reunion in glory. Do we recognize this gift not merely as a tradition, but as a living expression of divine love for us?

PROPHECY’S VITAL FORCE!

Paul, a stalwart defender of truth, magnifies the importance of prophecy, urging us to “Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy” (1 Corinthians 14:1). Is prophecy merely an optional extra, or does it serve as a cornerstone for spiritual vitality? Prophecy transcends the realm of the ornamental; it functions as a critical conduit through which God’s will is made manifest to His people. It is a spiritual sentinel, ever vigilant, illuminating the path of righteousness while simultaneously exposing the insidious snares of error. The very identity of the remnant church is intrinsically linked with this gift. Revelation 12:17 proclaims, “And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” And what, pray tell, is this “testimony of Jesus Christ”? Revelation 19:10 clarifies with divine precision: “for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” Ephesians 4:11-12 further details this role, stating, “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” These verses underscore that prophets are not merely additions to the church, but essential components for its growth and maturity. Moreover, Amos 3:7 emphasizes, “Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.” This highlights prophecy as God’s chosen method of communicating crucial information and plans to His people. Ellen G. White profoundly asserts, “There are many who fail to comprehend the far-reaching importance of the gift of prophecy. They have lessened its influence and made light of its claims.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 683). This quote underscores a concern about the underestimation of prophecy’s significance within the church. She further emphasizes, “The very last deception of Satan will be to make of none effect the testimony of the Spirit of God. ‘Where there is no vision, the people perish.’ Proverbs 29:18. Satan will work ingeniously, in different ways and through different agencies, to unsettle the confidence of God’s remnant people in the true testimony.” (Last Day Events, 227). Sr. White emphatically states, “Believe that we have the truth, and that the remnant church is to be blessed with the gift of prophecy” (Letter 36, 1890). God reveals Himself through prophets in visions, as Numbers 12:6 states, “And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the Lord will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream.” Prophecy edifies the church, according to 1 Corinthians 14:3, “But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.” Sr. White observes that the object of spiritual gifts is to maintain the living work of God in the church. They enable the Spirit of God to speak in the correction of wrongs, and in the exposure of iniquity (The Bible, the Spirit of Prophecy, and the Church, 80, 1952). She adds that they are the means whereby God teaches His people when they are in danger of taking wrong steps. They are the means by which the Spirit of God sheds light upon church difficulties, when otherwise their adjustment would be impossible (The Bible, the Spirit of Prophecy, and the Church, 80, 1952). Envision a city without lights or a body without sight—the church devoid of prophecy would be similarly handicapped, stumbling in spiritual darkness. This gift is not merely a blessing to be enjoyed, but a divine necessity to be cherished and defended against all who would seek to diminish or deny its significance. Do we, as guardians of truth, recognize the gravity and grandeur of this sacred trust?

SHADOWS OF SPIRITUAL VOID!

When the celestial lamp of prophecy dims or vanishes, darkness descends, both upon the church and the world. Is the absence of prophecy a mere inconvenience, or does it herald a deeper spiritual malaise? Solomon, the wise king, warns with stark clarity, “Where there is no vision, the people perish” (Proverbs 29:18). Lamentations poignantly captures the desolate state of a people forsaken by divine guidance: “Her prophets also find no vision from the Lord” (Lamentations 2:9). A church bereft of prophecy resembles a rudderless vessel, susceptible to the capricious currents of false doctrines and the shifting sands of human speculation. Hosea 4:6 poignantly declares, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.” This verse underscores the dire consequences of rejecting divine knowledge, of which prophecy is a key component. Furthermore, Isaiah 30:10 reveals the societal rejection of true prophecy, “Which say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits.” This illustrates a wilful turning away from truth, preferring falsehood, which is symptomatic of a world lacking divine vision. Ellen G. White insightfully observes, “Without the Bible and the Testimonies, we would have been in confusion and error.” (Manuscript 41, 1895). This statement directly links the absence of both Scripture and prophetic guidance with spiritual disarray and doctrinal mistakes. She further elaborates, “God has ordained that the means He has appointed shall be used. Without divine illumination, we are in no more capable of understanding the Scriptures than were the heathen philosophers of rightly comprehending Christianity.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 705). Sr. White, with prophetic insight, laments, “The very messages God sends to correct the existing evils are disregarded and lightly treated. Many are spiritually blind” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, 605). Rejecting prophets leads to destruction, as Deuteronomy 13:1-3 warns, “If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of dreams, and giveth thee a sign or a wonder, And the sign or the wonder come to pass, whereof he spake unto thee, saying, Let us go after other gods, which thou hast not known, and let us serve them; Thou shalt not hearken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams: for the Lord your God proveth you, to know whether ye love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul.” False visions bring confusion, according to Ezekiel 13:3, “Thus saith the Lord God; Woe unto the foolish prophets, that follow their own spirit, and have seen nothing!” Sr. White declares that it is, however, usually taught, in the current literature of the Christian world, that the gifts of the Spirit were only for the apostolic age; that they were given simply for the planting of the gospel; and that the gospel being once established, the gifts were no longer needed, and consequently were suffered soon to disappear from the church (Patriarchs and Prophets, 25, 1890). She emphasizes that thus the attempt to prove from scripture the abolition of spiritual gifts, proves a total failure. And since the gates of Hades have not prevailed against the church, but God still has a people on earth, we may look for the development of the gifts, in connection with the third angel’s message—a message which will bring back the church to apostolic ground, and make them indeed the light—not darkness—of the world (Spiritual Gifts, vol. 1, 10, 1858). Picture a society without law or a flock without a shepherd—the absence of prophecy breeds spiritual anarchy and decay. Without this divine light, corruption flourishes, truth withers, and spiritual death encroaches. The lack of prophecy is not a mere deficit—it is a devastating calamity that leads to division, moral erosion, and ultimate spiritual ruin. Are we vigilant in safeguarding this precious gift, lest we and those we serve stumble into the abyss of ignorance and apostasy?

PROPHETIC TRUTH TEST!

In an era saturated with claims of divine inspiration, distinguishing the genuine from the counterfeit becomes a matter of spiritual life and death. How can we discern the true voice of God from the echoes of deception? Isaiah lays down an immutable principle: “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20). Jesus Himself cautions, “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:15, 16). Jeremiah, a prophet tried and true, unveils the mark of falsehood: “They prophesy falsely in my name: I have not sent them, neither have I commanded them, neither spake unto them: they prophesy unto you a false vision and divination, and a thing of nought, and the deceit of their heart” (Jeremiah 29:9). To further emphasize the importance of testing, 1 John 4:1 instructs, “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” This verse highlights the prevalence of false prophets and the necessity of discernment. Furthermore, Acts 17:11 provides an exemplary model of discernment, describing the Bereans as, “more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” Their noble approach involved comparing even apostolic teachings with Scripture, setting a crucial precedent for testing all prophetic claims against the established Word of God. Ellen G. White firmly states, “If they do not speak according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Let the word of God decide all controverted points of doctrine and practice.” (Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 409). This quote emphasizes the Bible as the ultimate standard for testing prophetic messages. She further adds, “The people of God are to test every spirit, and prove whether it is of God… Both the fruits and the doctrine of the spirit must be tested by the Scriptures. ‘To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.’” (Review and Herald, July 12, 1892). Sr. White elucidates, “The fact that these messages are in harmony with the Bible is to be decided by all” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 349). True prophets’ words come to pass, as Jeremiah 28:9 confirms, “The prophet which prophesieth of peace, when the word of the prophet shall come to pass, then shall the prophet be known, that the Lord hath truly sent him.” God tests through prophets, according to Deuteronomy 18:22, “When a prophet speaketh in the name of the Lord, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the Lord hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.” Sr. White states that the Holy Ghost is the author of the Scriptures and of the Spirit of Prophecy. These are not to be twisted and turned to mean what man may want them to mean, to carry out man’s ideas and sentiments, to carry forward man’s schemes at all hazards (Letter 92, 1900). She explains that God is either teaching His church, reproving their wrongs, and strengthening their faith, or He is not. This work is of God, or it is not. God does nothing in partnership with Satan. My work bears the stamp of God, or the stamp of the enemy. There is no half way mark in the matter. The Testimonies are of the Spirit of God, or of the devil (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 671, 1889). Imagine a counterfeit coin or a deceptive mirage—false prophets, despite their outward appearances, will ultimately fail the test of divine truth and righteous living. Authentic prophecy will invariably align with the unshakeable foundation of God’s Word and bear the unmistakable fruit of holiness in life and ministry. Are we diligently applying these divinely ordained tests to ensure we are not led astray by voices that mimic, but do not manifest, the true spirit of prophecy?

BLESSINGS FROM HEAVEN’S VOICE!

For those who embrace the prophetic gift with open hearts and receptive minds, a cascade of spiritual blessings ensues. Is there tangible benefit in heeding prophetic counsel, or is it merely an exercise in religious formality? The Psalmist, with heartfelt conviction, declares, “Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellors” (Psalm 119:24). He further elucidates the transformative power of God’s Word: “The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple” (Psalm 119:130). Those who heed divine instruction are not only enlightened but also blessed beyond measure. 2 Chronicles 20:20 solidifies this promise, stating, “Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.” This verse directly links prosperity and establishment with believing in both God and His prophets, underscoring the tangible benefits of heeding prophetic guidance. Furthermore, Psalm 119:1-2 opens this Psalm with the declaration of blessing, “Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart.” This establishes that blessings are intrinsically linked to obedience to God’s law and keeping His testimonies, which include prophetic guidance. Ellen G. White joyfully exclaims, “If you follow the light, you will see the light and rejoice in the light.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 712). This beautifully captures the progressive and joyful experience of following divine guidance. She also states with assurance, “God has given the ‘Testimonies to the Church’ to correct errors and to establish the truth. He who disregards these warnings will be left to wander in error, to believe a lie.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 662). Sr. White affirms, “God has given the Testimonies of His Spirit to correct erroneous doctrines and to bring minds to a correct understanding of the truth” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 661). Prophecy brings unity until maturity, as Ephesians 4:13 states, “Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.” Gifts confirm the waiting church, according to 1 Corinthians 1:7, “So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Sr. White declares that if the gifts were necessary for the unity of the primitive church, how much more so to restore unity now! And that it is the purpose of God to restore the unity of the church in the last days, is abundantly evident from the prophecies (Spiritual Gifts, vol. 1, 12, 1858). She adds that the remnant of the Gospel church will have the gifts. War will be waged against them because they keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. Revelation 12:17. In Revelation 19:10, the testimony of Jesus is defined to be the Spirit of prophecy (Spiritual Gifts, vol. 1, 15, 1858). Picture a parched land receiving life-giving rain or a darkened room flooded with light—the prophetic word brings spiritual refreshment, guidance, and illumination to those who humbly receive it. To reject prophecy is to spurn heaven’s remedy for spiritual blindness and to forfeit the immeasurable blessings designed to enrich our lives. Do we personally testify to the delight and counsel found in the testimonies, and are we actively encouraging others to partake of this divine bounty?

LOVE’S PROPHETIC EMBRACE!

How do these profound concepts of prophecy reflect the very essence of God’s boundless love for humanity? Could He have remained silent, leaving us to navigate life’s complexities unaided, or does prophecy reveal a deeper dimension of His care? Amos 3:7 unveils a profound truth: “Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.” This divine declaration underscores that prophecy is not an arbitrary act but a deliberate expression of God’s intimate involvement in human affairs. It is a manifestation of His desire to guide, protect, and commune with His children. Consider a loving parent who provides direction and warnings to their child, not out of harshness, but out of deep affection and concern. Jeremiah 29:11 beautifully articulates God’s loving intentions, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” This verse reassures us that God’s plans for us are rooted in peace and well-being, and prophecy serves as a means to guide us toward this positive future. Moreover, 2 Peter 1:19 describes prophecy as, “a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts.” This portrays prophecy as a light in darkness, emphasizing God’s love in providing illumination amidst the world’s obscurity. Ellen G. White tenderly explains, “God has spoken to us in his word. He has spoken to us in the testimonies to the church and in the books that have helped to make plain present duty and the position that we should now occupy.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 665). This highlights the multi-faceted ways God communicates His love and guidance, including through prophecy. She further elaborates on the loving purpose of these messages, “These messages, repeated and emphasized, are to lead souls to Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life.” (Counsels to Writers and Editors, 69). Sr. White assures, “God’s messages are sent in love to save, not to condemn” (Gospel Workers, 310). Prophecy flows from infinite love, as 1 Samuel 9:9 illustrates the role of seers as God’s messengers, “(Beforetime in Israel, when a man went to enquire of God, thus he spake, Come, and let us go to the seer: for he that is now called a Prophet was beforetime called a Seer.)” God’s spirit testifies through prophets out of patience, according to Nehemiah 9:20, “Thou gavest also thy good spirit to instruct them, and withheldest not thy manna from their mouth, and gavest them water for their thirst.” Sr. White writes that nor is this all: a number of clear and explicit prophecies declare that in the last days there will be a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and that the church at the time of Christ’s appearing will have had, during its closing experience, ‘the testimony of Jesus,’ which is the spirit of prophecy (Patriarchs and Prophets, 20, 1890). She observes that the great work of the gospel is not to close with less manifestation of the power of God than marked its opening (The Great Controversy, 611, 1911). Each prophetic utterance is an expression of divine concern, calling us away from danger and into His embrace. Love warns, corrects, and leads to life everlasting. Do we perceive each prophetic word as a love letter from heaven, penned with divine ink and sealed with eternal affection?

In light of these profound truths, what then are my responsibilities toward God, the divine Giver of prophecy? Am I merely a passive recipient, or am I called to a more active role in engaging with this sacred gift? Psalm 119:111 declares, “Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever: for they are the rejoicing of my heart.” This verse speaks of a deliberate choice, a conscious acceptance of God’s testimonies as a cherished inheritance. We are not left to drift aimlessly but are called to embrace these divine counsels as a guiding light for our feet and a lamp for our path. Psalm 119:129 further emphasizes the need for active engagement, “Thy testimonies are wonderful: therefore doth my soul keep them.” This highlights that the wonder of God’s testimonies inspires us to actively keep and treasure them. Furthermore, Psalm 119:24 previously mentioned, “Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellors,” underscores the personal and practical application of these divine testimonies in our daily lives as sources of delight and counsel. Ellen G. White earnestly appeals, “God calls upon us to believe the testimonies of His Spirit. He would have us appreciate divine instruction and walk in the light, ever seeking for more light.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 683). This quote emphasizes the active belief and continuous seeking of light as our responsibility. She further states definitively, “God has given sufficient evidence for all to believe; and if any turn away from the evidence given, it is not because there is not sufficient evidence, but because they do not want to be convinced.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, 258). Sr. White urges, “God has spoken. He has given us light and instruction. These are not to be lightly regarded” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 680). We prove prophecies diligently, as 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21 commands, “Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” Obedience to prophets brings prosperity, according to 2 Chronicles 20:20, but wait excluded; instead, John 7:17, “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” Sr. White states that little heed is given to the Bible, and the Lord has given a lesser light to lead men and women to the greater light (The Review and Herald, January 20, 1903). She adds that at that time [after the 1844 disappointment] one error after another pressed in upon us; ministers and doctors brought in new doctrines. We would search the Scriptures with much prayer, and the Holy Spirit would bring the truth to our minds. Sometimes whole nights would be devoted to searching the Scriptures and earnestly asking God for guidance. Companies of devoted men and women assembled for this purpose. The power of God would come upon me, and I was enabled clearly to define what is truth and what is error (Gospel Workers, 302, 1915). Imagine receiving a precious gift and neglecting to unwrap or utilize it—to disregard prophecy is to treat divine love with indifference. My responsibility, therefore, is to diligently study, prayerfully consider, and faithfully apply the prophetic counsels in my personal life. This includes aligning my beliefs and actions with the light revealed, allowing it to refine my character, guide my decisions, and shape my spiritual journey. Am I personally embracing this responsibility, allowing the prophetic word to transform me from the inside out?

Recognizing the transformative power of prophecy, what are our collective responsibilities toward our neighbors, those who may yet be in darkness, unaware of this divine gift? Are we called to keep this light to ourselves, or are we commissioned to share its radiance with the world? Psalm 119:27 implores, “Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: so shall I talk of thy wondrous works.” Understanding divine precepts is not merely for personal enlightenment but also for enabling us to effectively communicate God’s wondrous works to others. We are not called to be solitary lamps but to be beacons, shining brightly to dispel the darkness around us. Matthew 28:19-20, often referred to as the Great Commission, commands, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” This mandate clearly calls for a global outreach, sharing all of Christ’s commands, which inherently include the prophetic guidance given to His church. Additionally, 2 Timothy 4:2 urges, “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” This highlights the urgency and comprehensive nature of our responsibility to share divine truth, including prophetic messages, with patience and doctrinal accuracy. Ellen G. White passionately calls to action, “We have a message to bear,–the third angel’s message. We are to give this message to the world. Our message is to be a straightforward one, not sugar-coated to please the fancy of worldlings. We are to bear the message in all its bearings.” (Evangelism, 630). This emphasizes the direct and comprehensive nature of the message we are to share, including the prophetic elements. Furthermore, she warns of the consequences of neglecting this duty, “God will hold His people guilty if they do not with all their powers exalt the testimonies He has given them to purify, elevate, and ennoble them, and to fit them for His work.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 347). Sr. White emphasizes, “We are living in the most solemn period of this world’s history. The destiny of earth’s teeming millions is about to be decided. Our own future destiny will soon be fixed for eternity. At this time every conceivable power of evil is brought into activity, that souls may be blinded to the truths of salvation” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, 231). Prophecy equips for ministry, as Ephesians 4:11-13 details, but excluded; instead, Joel 2:28, “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions.” The spirit empowers sharing, according to Acts 2:17-18, “And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy.” Sr. White affirms that all should decide from the weight of evidence (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, 255, 1875). She describes that in the vision given me June 12, 1868, I was shown the danger of the people of God in looking to Bro. and Sister White, and thinking that they must come to them with their burdens, and seek counsel of them. This ought not so to be. They are invited by their compassionate, loving Savior, to come unto Him, when weary and heavy laden, and He will relieve them. In Him they will find rest (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, 118, 1868). Consider a city engulfed in flames or a community facing a looming crisis—silence and inaction are not options for those who possess the means to help. Our responsibility, as bearers of prophetic truth, is to actively share this gift with our neighbors, both near and far. This involves lovingly presenting the message of prophecy, patiently answering questions, and living lives that exemplify the transformative power of divine guidance. Are we, as a community of faith, actively fulfilling this mandate to illuminate the world with the light of prophecy, guiding others to the saving truth?

ETERNAL PROPHECY LEGACY!

The gift of prophecy, therefore, stands as an unshakeable pillar, a testament to God’s enduring love and unwavering guidance. It is a light that pierces the darkness, a compass that directs our path, and a voice that calls us back to God amidst the cacophony of worldly distractions. We are not merely custodians of this gift but also active participants in its ongoing unfolding. We are called to be both students and stewards of prophecy, diligently studying its counsels, humbly heeding its warnings, and boldly proclaiming its message to a world desperately in need of divine direction. Let us, therefore, embrace this sacred trust with renewed vigor and unwavering commitment, allowing the spirit of prophecy to permeate every aspect of our lives and ministries. For in believing God and His prophets, we shall surely be established and prospered, both now and for eternity. Prophecy endures as a sure anchor, as Hebrews 1:1-2 declares, “God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds.” The gift unites the church, according to 1 Corinthians 12:1, “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.” Sr. White writes that I have much written in the diary I have kept in all my journeys that should come before the people if essential, even if I did not write another line. I want that which is deemed worthy to appear, for the Lord has given me much light that I want the people to have; for there is instruction that the Lord has given me for His people. It is light that they should have, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. This is now to come before the people, because it has been given to correct specious errors and to specify what is truth. The Lord has revealed many things pointing out the truth, thus saying, “This is the way, walk ye in it.” (Letter 127, 1910). She adds that when in their distress they feel the relief which is found alone in Jesus, they obtain an experience which is of the highest value to them (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, 118, 1868). In closing, may we never lose sight of the profound truth that the gift of prophecy is not a relic of the past but a living, breathing reality for God’s remnant church today. It is a divine endowment, bestowed in wisdom and love, designed to guide, protect, and perfect God’s people for His soon return. Let us cherish this gift, defend it against all opposition, and live in complete harmony with its instruction. May the words of 2 Chronicles 20:20 resonate in our hearts as we move forward in faith: “Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.” Amen.

“Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:20-21, KJV).

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PROPHECY: UNLEASHED!

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