Learn more about Prophesy (verb)

Introduction to Prophesy

The verb “prophesy” refers to the act of speaking forth or declaring a message from God, often under divine inspiration. In biblical usage, to prophesy means more than merely predicting the future—it encompasses proclaiming God’s will, offering encouragement, calling for repentance, or revealing divine mysteries. This role is carried out by individuals known as prophets, who serve as God's spokespersons to His people.

Prophesy Pronunciation

“Prophesy” (verb) is pronounced as PRAH-fuh-sigh, with the stress on the first syllable and the final syllable sounding like "sigh." It is important to distinguish this from “prophecy” (noun), which is pronounced PRAH-fuh-see.

Prophesy in the Bible

Prophesying is a central activity throughout both the Old and New Testaments. It is performed by individuals chosen and empowered by God to communicate His messages. These messages often include judgment, instruction, comfort, or the unveiling of future events.

• Moses (Exodus 7:1): Though not labeled a prophet until later, Moses acted in a prophetic role by declaring God's commands to Pharaoh and Israel.
• Samuel (1 Samuel 3:20): Recognized as a prophet throughout Israel, Samuel served as a mouthpiece for God and played a key role in anointing kings.
• Elijah and Elisha (1 Kings 17 – 2 Kings 13): These prophets performed miracles and confronted kings with divine messages.
• Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel: These major prophets penned large biblical books filled with prophecy that includes both imminent judgment and messianic hope.
• Joel (Joel 2:28): Prophesied a time when the Spirit would be poured out on all people, and sons and daughters would prophesy—a theme echoed in the New Testament.
• Jesus (Matthew 13:57; Luke 24:19): Referred to as a prophet by others, Jesus prophesied events such as His death, resurrection, and the destruction of the Temple.
• New Testament Church (Acts 2:17-18; 1 Corinthians 14): After Pentecost, the gift of prophecy became more widespread among believers, emphasizing encouragement and edification of the Church.
• Book of Revelation: The apostle John is given visions and prophecies about the end times, recorded for the churches.

Related Themes and Meanings to Prophesy

The act of prophesying is deeply tied to the following biblical themes:

• Divine Revelation: Prophecy reveals the heart, mind, and will of God to humanity.
• Repentance and Judgment: Prophets often called people to turn back to God, warning of consequences for sin.
• Messianic Hope: Many prophecies look forward to the coming of the Messiah, fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
• Empowerment by the Holy Spirit: Prophesying is enabled by the Spirit of God (Numbers 11:25; Acts 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12:10).
• Edification of the Church: In the New Testament, prophecy is especially emphasized as a gift that builds up the body of believers.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Prophesy

• The first person explicitly said to prophesy in the Bible is Enoch, mentioned in Jude 1:14.
• In Numbers 11:29, Moses expresses a desire that all the Lord’s people would prophesy, foreshadowing the New Testament era of the Holy Spirit.
• The difference between “prophesy” and “prophecy” often confuses readers; remember that “prophesy” is the action (verb), while “prophecy” is the message (noun).
• False prophecy is also a recurring biblical concern. Deuteronomy 18:20-22 outlines criteria for recognizing true prophecy and warns against those who claim to speak for God falsely.
• In the early Church, both men and women prophesied. Acts 21:9 refers to Philip the evangelist’s four unmarried daughters who had the gift of prophecy.

Conclusion

To “prophesy” is a profound and sacred act in Scripture, carrying the authority of God’s own words. It spans across genres, covenants, and eras—from ancient patriarchs to the apostolic age—demonstrating the consistency of God's communication with His people. Today, while interpretations of prophecy’s function may vary across Christian traditions, the verb remains foundational in understanding how God reveals His will and calls His people to faithfulness.