The Qualifications of a Prophet
There are several Biblical qualifications of a prophet. According to the Scriptures, this person is used by God to communicate His message to the world. He is also called a “seer” because he could see dreams and visions from God (1 Samuel 9:9). The Bible gives the following qualifications:
Obeys God’s Calling
“Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations” (Jeremiah 1:5-10; Amos 7:14, 15; Isaiah 6:1-10). The Lord calls certain individuals for the prophetic office. Some even before they are born such in the case of Jeremiah.
Lives a Godly Life
“…A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them” (Matthew 7:15-20). Faith in God must accompany good works for “faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone” (James 2:17). Genuine faith will find expression in unselfish acts to serve others. Thus, it was Christ and thus it will be with all who follow His example. A called person will bear the fruits of righteousness (Luke 10:27).
Teaches the Word of God
“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:19, 20). The Word of God is the standard of truth and the guide to right living. A person that hold this office will teach according to the principles of the Scriptures and does not deviate from it.
Predicts Future Events
“But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die. And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which the LORD hath not spoken? When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him” (Deuteronomy 18:20-22). The proof of a person that holds this credential lies, in part, in the fulfillment of his predictions. This was found true of Samuel (1 Samuel 3:18–21).
Has Visions or Dreams
“And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the LORD will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream” (Numbers 12:6). God has ever revealed His will to His servants that have been called for this ministry through visions and dreams, and promises to continue doing so till the end of time (Joel 2:28; Amos 3:7).
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
