September 14, 2008

God is still giving the gift of prophecy to his people; we should desire all gifts and the gift of prophecy in particular; and we should strive to practice this gift in obedience to scripture. Prophecy as practiced in the NT church was primarily concerned with the edification, encouragement and consolation of God's people rather than with prediction of the future. Contrasted with the gift of tongues, although both gifts are equally a work of the Holy Spirit, prophecy is able to be understood by all; it is addressed towards people rather than towards God; it builds up not only the speaker but also the hearers; and it convicts unbelievers. Phil also discusses some practicals of prophecy in the Lord's day meeting in our church.