Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the role of a prophet is pivotal, serving as a divine messenger who communicates God's will to the people. The decision to become a prophet, or to accept the prophetic calling, is not typically a matter of personal choice but rather a divine appointment. This entry explores the nature of prophetic decision-making, the characteristics of a prophet, and the biblical examples that illustrate this unique calling.Divine Calling and Appointment The decision to become a prophet is initiated by God, who chooses individuals according to His sovereign will. This calling is often accompanied by a direct encounter with God or a divine revelation. For instance, in the case of Jeremiah, God declares, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to the nations" (Jeremiah 1:5). This indicates that the prophetic role is preordained by God, emphasizing His sovereignty in the selection process. Characteristics of a Prophet Prophets are characterized by their intimate relationship with God and their commitment to conveying His messages, regardless of personal cost. They are often called to deliver messages of warning, judgment, or hope, and their words are expected to align with God's truth. The prophet Amos exemplifies this, stating, "The Lord GOD has spoken; who will not prophesy?" (Amos 3:8). This rhetorical question underscores the compelling nature of the prophetic call, which leaves the prophet with little choice but to speak. Biblical Examples of Prophetic Decision 1. Moses: Moses' encounter with God at the burning bush (Exodus 3) marks a significant moment of prophetic calling. Despite his initial reluctance and self-doubt, Moses ultimately accepts the role of leading the Israelites out of Egypt, demonstrating obedience to God's command. 2. Isaiah: In Isaiah 6, the prophet experiences a vision of God's holiness and responds to the divine call with, "Here am I. Send me!" (Isaiah 6:8). Isaiah's willingness to accept the prophetic mission highlights the voluntary aspect of responding to God's call, even when the message is difficult. 3. Jonah: Jonah's account illustrates the struggle and resistance that can accompany the prophetic call. Initially fleeing from God's command to prophesy against Nineveh, Jonah eventually fulfills his mission after a series of divine interventions (Jonah 1-3). His experience underscores the inevitability of God's will in the life of a prophet. 4. Elijah and Elisha: Elijah's prophetic ministry is marked by powerful demonstrations of God's power, and his decision to anoint Elisha as his successor (1 Kings 19:16) signifies the continuation of the prophetic office. Elisha's acceptance of the mantle, symbolized by his request for a double portion of Elijah's spirit (2 Kings 2:9), reflects the readiness to embrace the prophetic calling. The Role of Obedience and Faith The decision to accept the prophetic call is deeply rooted in obedience and faith. Prophets are often tasked with delivering messages that challenge the status quo, confront sin, and call for repentance. Their authority is derived from their faithfulness to God's word, as seen in the life of Samuel, who is described as a prophet whose words "did not fall to the ground" (1 Samuel 3:19), indicating the reliability and divine backing of his messages. Conclusion The decision to become a prophet is not a human choice but a divine mandate. Prophets are chosen by God, equipped with His message, and empowered to speak on His behalf. Their lives exemplify obedience, faith, and a commitment to truth, serving as conduits of God's will to His people. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 13:8-10And the man of God said to the king, If you will give me half your house, I will not go in with you, neither will I eat bread nor drink water in this place: Nave's Topical Index Library Christ's Decision Between the Worship of the Jews and that of the ... That we Should Seek the Verdict of Our Conscience in Every ... His Decision on the Question of Divorce. --Celibacy. (Matt. , xix, A Prophet of Peace The Prophet Nehemiah The Prophet Micah. The Prophet Joel. The Great Confession - the Great Commission - the Great ... God's Reply to These Assumptions. In Reply to the Questions as to his Authority, Jesus Gives the ... Resources What does the Bible say about indecision / being indecisive? | GotQuestions.orgWho is really “playing God”'the doctor who euthanizes a dying patient, or the doctor who extends the life of a terminally ill patient? | GotQuestions.org What is revivalism? | GotQuestions.org Decision: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Decision: Exhibited in Being on the Lord's Side Decision: Exhibited in Blessedness of Decision: Exhibited in Following God Fully Decision: Exhibited in Keeping the Commandments of God Decision: Exhibited in Loving God Perfectly Decision: Exhibited in Seeking God With the Heart Decision: Exhibited in Serving God Decision: General Scriptures Concerning Decision: Necessary to the Service of God Decision: Opposed to a Divided Service Decision: Opposed to Double-Mindedness Decision: Opposed to Halting Between Two Opinions Decision: Opposed to not Setting the Heart Aright Decision: Opposed to Turning to the Right or Left Valley of Decision: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |
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