And these two uses can add to the confusion about prophets.įor instance, in the big standoff between Elijah and the Baal worshipers on Mt. It can be used to describe making a pronouncement, but it can also be used to evoke unrestrained excitement. The Hebrew word translated as "to prophesy" is "nibba" or "hithnabbe," which means to speak or sing while under inspiration. But the Lord took me from tending the flock and said to me, 'Go, prophesy to my people Israel'" (Amos 7:14–15). "I was neither a prophet nor the son of a prophet, but I was a shepherd, and I also took care of sycamore-fig trees. When we think about the Old Testament prophets, we think about Amos, who was chosen by God to exclaim His message: But we also discover leaders like Saul having ecstatic experiences with God and prophesying all day and night (1 Samuel 19:23–24). We see people like Isaiah or Nahum who operated under the mantle of prophet. Clearing up prophesy confusionĪ deep dive into the topic of prophecy can be a little confusing. Why are false prophets so hazardous? To answer that question, we need to take a close look at the Old Testament.
Not only did Jesus alert His followers to the dangers of false prophets, but He also gave them instructions on recognizing these charlatans.
Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them (Matthew 7:15–20). Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. Jesus warned the disciples to keep an eye out for these people when He said: False prophets are people who claim to speak on behalf of God but have their own agendas.
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