Thursday: The Gift of Prophecy
Daily Lesson for Thursday 6th of August 2026
The gift of prophecy occupies a prominent place in Paul’s discussion on spiritual gifts. Interestingly, the gift of prophecy is usually mentioned before the gift of tongues (1 Corinthians 12:10,28; 1 Corinthians 13:8). When the gift of tongues is mentioned first, this is only to emphasize its relative unimportance compared to the gift of prophecy (1 Corinthians 14:4-6,22).
Read Ephesians 4:11-13 and 1 Corinthians 14:3-4. What do these passages say about the purpose of spiritual gifts in general and the gift of prophecy in particular?
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The gift of prophecy is meant to provide edification, exhortation, and comfort (1 Corinthians 14:3; compare with Acts 15:32). This suggests that prophecy is not so much about predicting the future as it is about how to live in the present. The Greek verb prophēteuō can mean either “to say something in advance” or “to say something on behalf of someone else.” For instance, the first sense is seen in Acts 2:29-31 (compare with Amos 3:7), where the idea that David is a prophet is explained as “foreseeing.” The second sense is seen in Acts 15:32, where Judas and Silas are identified as prophets. Their “prophecy,” however, consisted in encouraging and strengthening “the brothers with many words” (ESV).
From Ephesians 4:11-13, we learn that the spiritual gifts did not cease in the apostolic era. They should remain until the end (Acts 2:39). However, if someone claims to be a prophet, he/she must be evaluated based on the Scriptures. Broadly speaking, four rules should be satisfied. First, the unconditional prophecies always come true (Deuteronomy 18:22; Jeremiah 28:8-9). Second, the message agrees with that of previous prophets (Deuteronomy 13:1-3, Isaiah 8:20). Third, the daily life demonstrates a commitment to Christ (1 John 4:1-3). Fourth, Jesus said false prophets would be known by their fruits (Matthew 7:15-20). This is also true concerning true prophets.
The book of Revelation indicates that the gift of prophecy is a distinctive characteristic of the remnant church (Revelation 12:17, Revelation 19:10). As Seventh-day Adventists, we believe that the gift of prophecy was bestowed upon Ellen G. White and is reflected in her writings.
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What are all the reasons we have for belief in Ellen G. White’s prophetic gift? What questions remain about her role and authority? |
Our perception of the meaning of prophesying nowadays is foretelling the future. And if someone made the claim they were a prophet today, we would most likely conclude they were nutters, However, a study of the Old Testament shows a wider interpretation of the idea of prophecy. In the time of Samuel, Elisha and Elijah we find groups called “a company of prophets” and “sons of the prophets”. We sometimes refer to these groups as “schools of the prophets”. We do not know a lot about these groups except that they were essentially study groups organised by the prophets of the time. We know they sang and played, engaged in manual labour and probably studied the Torah together. In essence they were like a scholastic community. There is some suggestion they engaged in copying the Torah.
When we move on to the New Testament, we have mentions of new believers prophesying and Phillip the evangelist who had four daughters, all of whom, prophesied.
Prophecy is not just foretelling the future. There is linguistic support for the idea that prophecy means not just foretelling, but forthtelling, In other words, speaking and engaging with others. In the context of our spiritual engagement, it is about sharing the Gospel in word, and if we use the Old Testament as a pretext, in song and music.
I like that idea and can imagine Phillip the evangelist with four daughters who sang (prophesied) as being a powerful witness for Christianity in their community. And in our modern context, we can think of prophecy in terms of those who are gifted in “forthtelling” the gospel using our modern means of communication.
In Adventist circles we often limit our discussion to the special gifts of Ellen White and we have developed a whole vocabulary to protect her heritage. Maybe we should revisit the idea of prophecy in terms of how it can apply to us and our commission to “forthtell” the Gospel.
Thank you for that. The more I read what the Bible says about the gift of prophecy, the more I believe that it cannot just be limited to Ellen White. Perhaps it is time to recognize their giftedness/gift of other prophets among us.
Thanks for this elaborate view. It has changed my general view of prophecy, especially as a Spiritual gift to the church.
What is the purpose of prophesy for our time, in this generation? Yes, we need prophesy to build our faith (edification), to encourage us (exhortation), and strengthen us (comfort) – 1 Corinthians 14:3. Therefore, the central purpose of prophesy for our generation is not merely to satisfy our curiosity about the future, but to call believers to faithfulness, watchfulness, repentance and hope in Christ. In fact, the greatest question prophesy is asking our generation is, “Am I ready for the coming of Jesus Christ?”
Perhaps in our generation, we need to appreciate the gift God has graciously given us in Ellen White.
We are currently re-reading Testimonies to the Church, Vol. 3, after reading the first two volumes. I am constantly amazed at how interesting and relevant the counsel still is today, particularly beginning with Volume 2. (Volume 1 deals largely with the eignning of the work and has historical value.)
We need to be doers as well as readers, so that the work of God in us and in the world can be finished!
Throughout the history of the universe—from creation to the promise of the new heavens and the new earth—God has given humanity a significant role in His unfolding story. At the centre of the universe is the throne of God, and through Christ we are invited to approach that throne with confidence. As Hebrews reminds us, “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace” (Hebrews 4:16). The gift of prophecy reflects this open communication between God and His people: God speaks, His people listen, and His message guides, encourages, warns, and strengthens them. As Paul explains, “the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation” (1 Corinthians 14:3).
Prophecy, therefore, is not merely about predicting future events; it is God communicating His heart and His purposes to His people.Through the gift of prophecy, God reveals something of His character—His wisdom, knowledge, power, love, mercy, justice, and holiness. When God speaks, He reveals who He is and calls His people into a deeper relationship with Him. Because humanity is created in the image of God, we have been given the remarkable capacity to hear, understand, and communicate His truth. Yet prophecy is never intended to elevate the prophet; it is given for the benefit of the community and the advancement of God’s work. Paul therefore teaches, “the one who prophesies builds up the church” (1 Corinthians 14:4). The true gift of prophecy always points beyond the messenger to God Himself, drawing people closer to His character, His Word, and His mission.
Because we are fellow believers in Christ and we are here to discuss the Scriptures with each other. I am presenting to you a question that has arisen from my wondering mind.
I do hold Ellen White and her prophetic work in very high regard. Nevertheless , especially as we read Paul’s writing, that exposes the generosity of our God in bestowing Spiritual Gifts to his Church ; why after all these many years our Church has recognised only one prophet ?
I am left with the same question. It certainly seems the gift of prophecy in the early church was not held by one or two people. Certainly all did not have it, but it was common enough. It does not seem reasonable that it would be manifested by one only person in a span of 180 years.
Trying to identify current prophets does lead to people that frankly seem unbalanced coming out of the woodwork. So I agree we shouldn’t go down that path. But perhaps many more do have the gift of prophecy than we realize. It is certainly much more than predicting the future.
God has poured a flood of light upon the world through the writings of Ellen White! 100,000 pages of manuscripts?
One book such as Steps to Christ or Desire of Ages would have been amazing. During the reformation the reformers would have been thrilled to have this gift among them. God through her magnifies the truth of the Bible while pointing to the Bible as our rule of faith and practice. Why The Lord in His wisdom waited until the 1840’s to bring this flood upon the world is a mystery but I am very thankful to have been alive and exposed to it!
Lord, please help us make use of the prophecies you have revealed through your servants. Amen!
I believe that one of the greatest purposes of Ellen White’s prophetic ministry has been to safeguard the church from doctrinal error and unnecessary schism. Throughout Scripture, God raised up prophets not only to predict future events but to call His people back to faithfulness when they drifted from His revealed truth.
The Seventh-day Adventist Church has faced numerous theological controversies since its beginning. Time and again, the counsels given through Ellen White have helped preserve the church’s biblical identity, clarify disputed issues, and keep its focus on Christ and the mission He entrusted to His people. Her writings have repeatedly warned against false teachings, fanaticism, and independent movements that threaten the unity of the body.
This does not mean that her writings replace the Bible. Rather, they have consistently directed the church back to Scripture as its supreme authority. In that sense, God has used her prophetic ministry to preserve the unity of the faith, safeguard sound doctrine, and keep the remnant church committed to its God-given mission until Christ returns.
I think Maurice shares a very interesting and important observation: “Maybe we should revisit the idea of prophecy in terms of how it can apply to us and our commission to “forthtell” the Gospel.” I certainly join him in this idea.
Rev.19:10
And I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, “See that you do not do that! I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren who have the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus IS the spirit of prophecy.”
If prophecy is identical with and emanating from the Spirit of God, and Jesus’ testimony IS the Spirit of Prophecy, this then leads me to understand that all of Jesus’ testimony is the reflection/work of the Spirit of Prophecy.
Therefore, when we state or share anything regarding Jesus’ ministry/testimony, it ought to be seen in the light of prophecy – or, using Maurice’s word – ‘forthtelling’. We participate in Jesus’ ‘forthtelling’/prophesying when sharing the Truth of His Light which governs the affairs of man.
By considering prophecy not as ‘sharing’ separate, future events, or as confined to the book of Revelations, prophecy becomes the reflection of the whole Testimony of Jesus Christ established throughout His ministry. When sharing or elaborating on its many topics, we find ourselves participating in the ‘testament of Jesus’ Spirit of prophecy’ – forthtelling its Truth. Rev.1:2,9; Rev.12:17; Rev.20:4.
In these times can we still see or hear any prophets or they are all gone. I remember when I got Baptized I could say things and then they happen. I remember like two incidents I don’t know what that is called?
There were 40 silent years between the old and new testaments because God’s people wouldn’t listen to the prophets that he had previously sent. Could we be experiencing the same today? Just a thought to ponder.
What you experienced may be what some refer to as word of knowledge, where God gives a thought to share. It is totally different from being a prophet. 2 Chronicles 20:20
There is no question that Ellen White was used by God in a powerful way. For me, the biggest reason for me to believe in her ministry is the blessing her counsel has been to our church. We would not have our education system, health ministry, publishing and so on without her counsel. Many of her books have been great blessings.
However, in many ways, I feel she has been misused. We will always say she is the lesser light leading to the greater light, but in practice many do not follow this. I cringe whenever I read an article full of her quotes and scarcely a Bible verse (these were more common before the 80s, but they are still more common than they should be). I feel discouraged when someone makes a point in Sabbath School or prayer meeting and it is followed by “But Mrs. White says…”. I am also aware of how often her writings are used to drive our study of the Bible. Some examples of this that I notice are how we focus much more on verses she has quoted than verses she has not, how we build studies around her books (the Great Controversy lesson of 2024 did this, much to my dismay), and how she is often the first resource we go to when we aren’t sure about the meaning of a passage. To me all these examples show that in many ways we actually put her above the Bible. I heard someone once say that she was the equivalent of the Pope for Adventists. I wish I could say there wasn’t truth to that statement.
Granted, I don’t think Ellen White would support any of this and she is not to blame for it. And despite the way we can misuse her, I do think her writings still have value. But I do think we have a long way to go before we really have a healthy relationship with her in the church.
Christina, you have some valid points and I appreciate how you summarized your comment. She would be (if she could be, but she can’t) rolling over in her grave over the way her gift of prophecy has been handled by the contemporary church. Neither extreme is helpful or healthful. Remember that she called herself a servant of the Lord. That’s what we all should be in our own capacities. She was indeed a “lesser light” leading to the “greater light.” She herself said that if God’s people had read their Bibles as they should have then her gift wouldn’t have been necessary. 2 Chronicles 20:20 applies even today, but Jesus remains the central focus of prophecy. He must have first priority of our devotion.
From what I have observed, it seems to me that those who appear to be her most vocal supporters are the worst enemies of her work for God’s people. Using “Ellen White says …” to reprove or correct someone or as a first resource of scriptural interpretation goes directly against her counsel.
If “supporters” were more ready to practice what she wrote than to correct others, this church would be in a much better place.
For myself, I have made it a rule to quote her writings mainly in an encouraging way, in the hope it may lead people to read her writings and to be blessed. Her warnings are to be applied chiefly to myself. If they apply to others, it is almost certain that using them to “correct” others will do no good.
Exercising our God-given mental powers to interpret Scripture with the help of the Holy Spirit will cause us to grow both spiritually and mentally. (She said so. 😉) Since we are discussing this online, it is easy to use online resources such as these:
Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge – an exhaustive cross reference source
An Interlinear Bible at BibleHub.com
or the interliner Bible found at
BlueLetterBible.org – my favorite interlinear Bible
Bible Dictionary at BlueLetterBible.org
Both the BibleHub and the BlueLetterBible site are worth exploring for the multiple study aids they offer. It is worth the effort to learn to use the tools offered.
Thanks for the link to BlueLetterBible.org
I have just had a quick look and will be using it often now.
Even the easy verse by verse comparison of so many translations looks very useful
Ellen Golden White foresaw many things, sometimes a hundred years ahead of science. In the health area, for example, by the time she said something about tobacco being bad for the lungs, doctors would indicate it as a treatment. And there are many other facts. She also never disagreed with the Scriptures; nevertheless, she enhanced their value.
Shalom and maranatha greetings.
I hope and pray my question does not come across as harsh, crash, rebellious or on the cusp of doubt.
The statement has been made- E.G. White writings is the lesser light that leads to the greater light. Now that she has led one to the greater light, is her leading needed afterwards?
I believe Ellen White was a prophet of God, evidenced by today’s posts also. Start with the first chapter of the desire of Ages. Don’t fall in love with her writings fall in love with the One she is writing about. Don’t listen to nay sayers, even if they are teasing. “We don’t need a prophet; we have the Bible.” Don’t listen to those people. Look at what happened to those who turned off their hearing to the prophets of old.
Prophets misused, yes. Underused, yes also.
I agree, pointing out the encouraging passages is the way. It refrains from being known as hammering the point, rather than nudging people. I learned to nudge rather than hammer from our head elder years ago. Some day in heaven beyond the Orion, someone will say I am here because you nudged me.
I believe it is important to realize that the Lord is using many different avenues to deliver the prophetic word to this church and to others. He speaks through different people, but this does not make each individual “a prophet” in the sense that we think of Bible prophets.
One useful prophet is a blessing to the world than the thousands of prophets decaying our earth
I think as seventh day Adventist church we urgently need contemporary prophets to supplement Hellen G white writings in guiding the church in the face of emerging confusion brought by other seventh day churches eg seventh day reformed,seventh day elohim,seventh day church of God , Dini ya roho mafuta pole ya africa : this one in west pokot county_etc that has emerged to contradict the seventh day Adventist church , the apostle Paul said that prophets should be in the church till the last day to edify,guide,and encourage the church.Ephesians 4:11_12.
Joseph, I hear what you are saying, but I don’t think a prophet is the answer. If you read Seventh-day Adventist history, you will find that offshoots and schisms occurred even in the time of Ellen White. And if you go back to the Old Testament, you will find that many of the prophets who tried to turn Israel and Judah back to God were largely ignored and often tormented and killed because of their message. A prophet does not stop these schisms from happening.
Part of the modern problem is that people do rise, claiming visions, calling themselves prophets, and gathering followers around them. We are warned that this will happen in the last days.
I think that what we need more than a “new” prophet is to read the writings of the messenger God already gave to this church. And then we need to DO what God said through her. That would avoid all sorts of confusion.
Prophecy is receiving messages from God to a prophet,a prophet is a person who tells the truth at a time,if a person only tells the future,it doesn’t mean you are a prophet to prophesy is to receive message from God
Thank you Inge for the words you spoke that follow.
“Her warnings are to be applied chiefly to myself. If they apply to others, it is almost certain that using them to “correct” others will do no good.”
There is one fact that seems to be missing in knowing if what a person says is prophetic or not. It is the work of the Holy Spirit in determining what someone says is prophetic. He will spiritually light up prophecy when spoken or written for us to see.
Not everything a prophet says is prophetic. Especially since what they say can be fleshly motivated rather than spiritually motivated. That is why the Holy Spirit is so necessary in discerning truth. I find when he lights it up it starts to flow into my heart.
There is also a danger in making prophetic words into a law not only for ourselves but also for others. It can develop a temptation to judge others who are still growing in Christ. And aren’t we all in this category?
God works with each of us by renewing our hearts to his will. This is a process that can take a lifetime. God gives grace to those who want to follow him. I often find myself extending this grace to others as the Spirit works this grace in me.
The Bible was written under the influence of the Holy Spirit. Also prophets speak under the influence of the Holy Spirit as well. We need the Holy Spirit to hear true prophecy not just only from the Bible, but also from others.
God gives us the Holy Spirit as the means to communicate to us his truths.
Romans 8:1-8
Ephesians 4:23
Romans 12:2
Matthew 7:1-6
2 Peter 3:16
John 16:3
Thanks, Celeste. We can also recognize whether or not a “prophetic word” is truly from the Lord by judging it against what God has already said through previous revelations. God does not contradict Himself.
That is why it is so important to constantly study God’s Word.
My husband was in a situation where a pastor of a charismatic congregation said he didn’t need the Bible because the Holy Spirit spoke to him directly. To demonstrate how little the Bible was worth, he threw it on the floor. That was not the Holy Spirit speaking through him!