5 Smooth Stones

stages of development. In the church today we have great need for prophetic ministers who have the character and fruit of a man or woman of God proven in their lives. We have great need for prophetic mentors who will help to train and equip those with prophetic gifting. This also requires the willingness of those with the character and calling to prophetic ministry to submit themselves in a relationship such as that exempli fi ed by the “sons of the prophet” seen in both the Old and New Testaments. Similarly, building upon the concept of the school of the prophets and the fellowship created thereby, there is a possibility of a company of prophets working together for the bene fi t of all. (1 Samuel 10:10, 1 Samuel 19:20, 1 Corinthians 14:29). Where there are a “company” of prophetic ministers willing to fellowship and work together for the bene fi t of the Kingdom, righteous judgment will be the result. It is too bad that the perception of the prophetic ministry is one of a loner, but this is generally the view that people have of a prophet. This is not a biblical perspective. This is not to say that one called to prophetic ministry must not be able to stand alone if necessary. In fact, this is a Christian trait, not necessarily a prophetic trait. However, not all Christians manifest the ability to stand alone when necessity calls, yet it is a requirement for a prophetic minister and he will no doubt be tested in this area as he matures. It is imperative that the prophetic ministry receive insight and revelation directly from the Lord. However, the Lord has made it clear that all “know in part” therefore we only “prophesy in part” (1 Corinthians 13:9). For those who are truly desirous of a bigger picture they must strive to achieve all the stages of prophetic ministry as a requirement. If we will grow in the character of Christ, being transformed and manifesting the fruit of the spirit, our foundation will be laid. If we will come into relationship with mature prophetic ministry, yielding our gifts and calling for the good of maturity that comes with discipleship and training, our way will become more sure. If we will receive proven prophetic ministry and build a fellowship or company of trusted fellow prophetic souls, we will fi nd that the Lord will be more than happy to reveal His plans. We are in greater need of hearing God’s plans now than ever before. Amos 3:7 “Surely the Lord God does nothing, Unless He reveals His secret [plans, council] to His servants the prophets. ” ENDNOTES: 25 A Jewish Rabbi tells us the following: These apprentices were called םיאבנ ינב the sons of the prophets (1 Kings 20:35, 2 Kings 2:3 et al). c. The heads of this school for prophets traced down from Moses i. Moses ii. Joshua iii. Phineas iv. Othniel v. Abishua vi. Deborah vii. Uzzi viii. Eli ix. Samuel x. Nathan xi. Ahijah the Shilonite xii. Elijah xiii.

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