Spiritual Gifts – Prophecy

As believers, God has given us spiritual gifts to be used
effectively in expanding His ministry on earth. One of
those gifts is Prophecy and when it is effectively used,
it will contribute to the Lord’s purpose.

The spiritual gift of Prophecy doesn’t mean having visions
of the future like a fortune teller or psychic.
It refers to someone who boldly preaches or teaches God’s Word.

CHARACTERISTICS:
1. Expresses himself or herself well verbally or in writing
   (especially regarding right and wrong, God’s principles, etc.).
       – Acts 2:14

2. Has an ability to quickly identify character and motives of others.
       – Has an ability to detect dishonesty.
       – Acts 5:1-3

3. Rebukes evil with love.
       – If he or she was not concerned about the other person,
         they wouldn’t waste their time.
       – Romans 12:9

4. Shows an openness to his or her own personal thoughts and failures.
       – Wants to be told of his or her faults.
       – Is honest about himself or herself.
       – Does not think of themselves as better that others.
       – Luke 5:8

5. Has a genuine concern for the reputation and program of God.
       – Defends God’s program
         and will not take credit for what God is doing.
       – Acts 3:12
       – Acts 4:20

6. Is painfully direct when correcting someone.
       – Is more interested in correcting the problem than they are
         about how the truth will affect the person’s feelings, attitudes,
         and/or whether or not the person will like what he or she is saying.
       – Would rather not hurt someone’s feelings but is willing to risk
         a friendship if what is said will benefit the other person.

7. Is motivated by a desire of the protection and salvation
   of a person headed in the wrong direction.
       – Does not want to see anyone misled about God’s principles.
       – Matthew 16:12

8. Appears to give simple solutions to seemingly complex problems.

9. Is persuasive in defining what is right and wrong.
       – Is strong in appealing for an outward change.
       – Looks for immediate evidence that the person has
         corrected, or is at least trying to correct the problem.

10. Relies strongly on the scriptures to validate his or her convictions.
         – When correcting someone, he or she may say
           “Here is what God says” (which transfers authority
           to God and shows that it is not just his opinion).
         – Acts 2:16, 24-25, 34

11. Has a desire to give open evidence of loyalty,
      and total commitment.
         – Will be there through thick and thin;
           willing to make sacrifices if needed.
         – Matthew 26:33, 35, 51

12. Has a willingness to experience brokenness in order to
      see God work that brokenness in others (which will allow
      him or her to see them redeemed and/or growing in their
      own spiritual experience).
         – Is willing because he or she can see the big picture
           and realizes the value of humility and brokenness.
         – John 13:8-9

13. Makes quick judgments (which are usually right).
         – Is impulsive and quick to speak
           (Peter always spoke up first).
         – Is bold when sharing or defending God’s Word.

MISUNDERSTANDINGS:
1. Discernment of right and wrong:
       – Appears to be rigid and intolerant.

2. Strong desire to proclaim the truth:
      – Appears to be disinterested in listening
        to another person’s point of view.

3. Frankness:
      – Appears to be harsh and insensitive to people’s feelings.

4. A keen interest in speaking to groups
    (Note: Will also speak to individuals, but in a different way).
       – Can be viewed as disinterested in individuals.

5. Efforts to see obvious results.
       – Can be viewed as using gimmicks to
         get others to make committal decisions.

6. Emphasis on decisions.
       – Appears to be neglecting spiritual growth.
         Note: He or she views decisions to change as
                     a vital step in growing spiritually.

7. Public boldness and strict standards:
         – Appears to be hard to get to know
           (which may hinder intimate personal relationships).
           Note: Once others know he or she has concerns about
                       them and their spiritual condition, they welcome
                       a friendship with a person who has the gift of
                       prophecy.

There are some distinct differences in the use and results
of this gift when a person is ‘walking in the Spirit’
versus ‘walking in the flesh’.

1. WALKING IN THE SPIRIT
Committed to truth.
1. WALKING IN THE FLESH
Deception (hiding sinful failures).

2. WALKING IN THE SPIRIT
Obedience to God (committed).
2. WALKING IN THE FLESH
Rebellious (justifying actions contrary to God’s Will).

3. WALKING IN THE SPIRIT
Sincerity (can be trusted).
3. WALKING IN THE FLESH
Hypocrisy (living a different life publicly than they do privately).

4. WALKING IN THE SPIRIT
Virtuous (keeps life pure so that he or she can be used by God).
4. WALKING IN THE FLESH
Impurity; sensuality.

5. WALKING IN THE SPIRIT
Boldness (especially when standing for God).
5. WALKING IN THE FLESH
Fearfulness; timidity.

6. WALKING IN THE SPIRIT
Forgiving and loving spirit.
6. WALKING IN THE FLESH
Rejection of some people; critical of others.

7. WALKING IN THE SPIRIT
Persuasiveness (wants to see others grow spiritually).
7. WALKING IN THE FLESH
Argumentative (boldness, but without love).