“I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their fellow Israelites, and I will put my words in his mouth. He will tell them everything I command him.“
– Deuteronomy 18:18
 Here’s a good question: What is a prophet? Most people think it’s a fortune teller — someone who tells the future. The biblical concept of a prophet is a person who is filled with the Holy Spirit, who operates in God’s power, but primarily a person who speaks for God to the people for their benefit. Even if the prophet speaks to those who are evil, it is for their benefit. God’s heart is always to turn people around, to give mercy, to point them in the right direction, and show them the way out!
A few biblical examples of prophets showing the way out include Moses leading people to freedom; Elijah providing the widow of Zarephath with instructions that provided an unlimited supply of food; and Naaman, who was instructed by Elisha and healed. We see that the purpose of the prophets is to serve for the benefit of others. Jonah was one prophet in the Bible who was not considered great by rabbis, because he did not care about the people he prophesied to. God told Jonah to go to Nineveh and tell them to repent. When they repented, Jonah grieved because he actually wanted them killed. Jonah was powerful, but he only served himself. Friend, Jesus tells us to watch out for wolves in sheep’s clothing. These are false prophets who are only there to serve themselves. They are not there to serve the people God loves, or has sent them to. As believers, we can trust the biblical concept of a prophet as someone who possesses the Holy Spirit and operates in God’s power. Most importantly, they are people who have God’s heart to serve and love people, in addition to speaking for Him. |
Prayer
Father, give me the ability to recognize your true prophets.
Reflection
Have you ever seen a true prophet speaking on behalf of God?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Sunday morning at 11:00 a.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
10 Responses
I am a Catholic, but I still watch you from time to time on TV and have purchased some of your books. I like your positive, authentic sermons and messages. God bless you and your family. ❤️
Thank you for all the insights you give each day. I get up each morning looking forward to and knowing I can read a message that will start my day with inspiration. You and Hannah are wonderful in giving meaning and understanding to God’s word. Thank you for your prayers and love.
Thank you Bobby for your wisdom and guidance in the word. I have followed Hour of Power for over 20 years and I enjoy your daily devotional and watching weekly on TV. God bless you, Hannah, Haven and Cohen!
Your devotionals are so very meaningful each and every day! My husband and I both read them every morning. We were fortunate to visit the Crystal Cathedral many years ago and hear your grandfather deliver an amazing sermon in that beautiful setting that still holds a special place in our lives. We pray for you and your family as you carry on his tradition in delivering the word of our Lord and Savior to the world. God Bless ✝️
Amen!
It is very hard to be able to determine who is a prophet in today’s modern world and to discern what is true from what is being said.
Billy Graham and your grandpa Dr. Schuller surely fit that description!
Amen
Hi Pastor Bobby, I appreciate you, your beautiful family, and all those working with you in ministry! You asked the readers of “What is a Prophet,” daily eDevotional, August 19, 2023, “Have you ever seen a true prophet speaking on behalf of God?” I have! There is a wonderful show I watch on Rumble by the name of “Elijah Streams.” The Lord led me to this platform for prophets in 2020, founded by Steve Shultz in the 1990’s as Elijah List (prophetic website/published prophecies), and expanding over the years to include the show I now view, Elijah Streams – an encouragement, lifeline, and blessing, which is also true of Shepherd’s Grove, and Hour of Power! May the “Open Heaven” blessings of our Lord continually be upon you!
Bobby should be included in the examples of prophets, he is a blesssing to millions of Christians around the world .