In the biblical narrative, prophets and advisors hold significant roles as conduits of divine wisdom and guidance. Their presence is woven throughout the Old and New Testaments, serving as intermediaries between God and His people, and providing counsel to leaders and the community.

Prophets in the Old Testament

Prophets in the Old Testament are primarily seen as God's spokespersons, chosen to deliver His messages to the people of Israel. They are often called during times of moral and spiritual decline to call the nation back to covenant faithfulness. The Hebrew word for prophet, "nabi," implies one who is called or appointed. Prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel are prominent figures who conveyed God's warnings, promises, and revelations.

The role of a prophet is multifaceted. They are seers who receive visions and dreams (1 Samuel 9:9), preachers who proclaim God's word (Jeremiah 1:7), and intercessors who pray on behalf of the people (Exodus 32:11-14). Prophets also serve as advisors to kings, providing divine insight into political and military matters. For instance, Nathan the prophet advised King David, confronting him about his sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:1-14).

Advisors in the Old Testament

Advisors, often referred to as counselors or wise men, play crucial roles in the governance and decision-making processes of Israel's leaders. Their wisdom is sought in matters of statecraft, justice, and personal conduct. The Book of Proverbs, attributed to Solomon, is a collection of sayings that reflect the importance of wise counsel: "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed" (Proverbs 15:22).

Biblical examples of advisors include Ahithophel and Hushai, who served King David. Ahithophel's counsel was highly regarded, as if one inquired of the word of God (2 Samuel 16:23). However, the narrative also illustrates the potential for advisors to lead astray, as seen when Rehoboam rejected the counsel of the elders in favor of his peers, leading to the division of the kingdom (1 Kings 12:6-15).

Prophets in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the role of prophets continues, though with a shift in focus. Prophets are part of the early church's foundation, as seen in Ephesians 2:20, which states that the church is "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone." The prophetic gift is one of the spiritual gifts given for the edification of the church (1 Corinthians 12:10).

John the Baptist is a pivotal prophetic figure, serving as the forerunner to Christ, calling for repentance and preparing the way for the Lord (Matthew 3:1-3). The Book of Acts records the presence of prophets in the early church, such as Agabus, who predicted a famine (Acts 11:28) and warned Paul of his impending arrest (Acts 21:10-11).

Advisors in the New Testament

While the New Testament does not emphasize the role of advisors in the same manner as the Old Testament, the principle of seeking wise counsel remains. The apostles and elders in the early church functioned as advisors, guiding the community in doctrine and practice. The Jerusalem Council in Acts 15 is an example where the apostles and elders gathered to provide guidance on the issue of Gentile believers and the Mosaic Law.

The New Testament also highlights the role of the Holy Spirit as the ultimate counselor and guide for believers. Jesus promised the coming of the Holy Spirit, who would teach and remind the disciples of all that He had said (John 14:26). This divine guidance underscores the continuity of God's provision of wisdom and direction for His people throughout the biblical narrative.