God's Prophetic People - A People of Passion, Purpose And Power

God's Prophetic People

God’s Prophetic People Copyright © 2012, 2025 by Brian Daehn Ministries Redmond, Oregon

All Rights Reserved. Published 2012, 2025 Printed in the United States of America ISBN: 978-1-952645-60-0

Unless otherwise indicated the Scripture quotations are from the New King James Version. Copyright@1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. This book may not be reproduced in whole or in part in any form or by any electronic means electronic, or mechanical including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system without prior written consent from the publisher, except as provided by the United States of America copyright law.

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(For additional materials see: briandaehnministries.com)

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

FOREWORD .................................................................................... 5

RECOMMENDATIONS… ............................................................. 7

PREFACE......................................................................................... 11

PURPOSE OF BOOK… ................................................................... 12

A WORD ON MEDITATION… .................................................... 13

INTRODUCTION ............................................................................15

CHAPTER 1: KINGS, PRIESTS, AND PROPHETS… ................ 23

CHAPTER 2: A PEOPLE OF PASSION… .................................... 43

CHAPTER 3: A PEOPLE OF DAVIDIC WORSHIP… ................ 81

CHAPTER 4: A PEOPLE OF PURPOSE...................................... 111

CHAPTER 5: A PEOPLE OF PROPHETIC PERSPECTIVE.......145

CHAPTER 6: A PEOPLE OF POWER ..........................................173

NOTES… .......................................................................................... 199

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FOREWORD

God’s Prophetic People is a book designed to open our thinking, that we might see from God’s view His desire for us, which is to be a people of passion, purpose, and power. Much of the scriptures deal with the realm of the prophetic. The fact is that one-third of the Bible is prophetic. This means that God desires us to not be wandering in darkness and wondering what He is doing, but His desire is to share His secrets with us so that we would know the time and season that we live in. It has been my experience that through the prophetic in the church, my life has been changed and turned from the ordinary to the supernatural. Scripture tells us that if we “believe the prophets we will prosper” (2 Chronicles 20:20). However, it doesn’t mean that we believe everything that is said in the name of the Lord. The Bible also warns us of false prophets and teachers that will increase in the last days. When it comes to the prophetic, we have three choices: 1) reject all prophecy because of false prophecies; 2) be guided by prophecy without any desire for checks and balances to judge it; 3) judge prophecy in a biblical manner and find guidance, direction, peace, and prosperity through the revelation that comes to us from the prophetic.

I believe this book will bring godly and biblical balance to this great ministry that God is restoring in these last days.

I have known Brian Daehn for many years. He has been a professor at Portland Bible College and worked in our church for a number of years. Many doors have now opened around the world for his ministry for which I am personally well pleased.

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May this book give you strength, understanding and revelation as to what is the mind of God for you and how to qualify to be a prophetic people. In His Name, K.R. (Dick) Iverson Founder of Bible Temple (presently Manna House) Founder of Portland Bible College Founding Chairman, Ministers Fellowship International

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RECOMMENDATIONS

“ … God’s Prophetic People is written to and about a people who live in the last days, who fulfill the verses in Revelation 2 and 3, “He that has an ear to hear, Let him hear what the spirit says to the churches.” Brian Daehn has given us a unique opportunity to view these prophetic times from many different vantage points. Just as a lapidarist cuts a diamond, revealing the many facets of its beauty, so this book is written as a wonderful, multi-dimensional, teaching tool that examines being a prophetic people from many different perspectives. As you read this book, you will see that much time, thought, study, research, and prayer has gone into these pages, giving us much on which to meditate and pray. This book is a tremendous instrument to help Christians stir themselves to hear what God is saying to the Church today.” Bob Isabell Founding Pastor of Family Bible Church, Vancouver, WA. Prophetic Minister "I am very impressed with Brian Daehn's material on " God's Prophetic People ." Any church will greatly benefit from his exciting chapters on "A People of Passion, Purpose and Power." This is solid, inspirational teaching that will help establish a church in both the basic fundamentals of Christian living as well as give important insight to what God is presently doing in the church at large." Ernest Gentile Founding Pastor of Christian Community Church, San Jose, CA. Author & Prophetic Minister

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“If the Church of our generation is going to challenge the strongholds of the ungodly culture in which we live, the people of God need to be gripped by an overwhelming passion for God. Brian Daehn reveals that kind of heart in his ministry and writing, and it is contagious. I appreciate the fact that his work is marked by a deep love for the word of God and a desire to keep it at the center of his message. His teaching and writing is driven by his conviction that the Bible, as God’s revealed truth, is the Word that transforms lives.” Dr. James E. Sweeney Former Provost, Western Seminary “It is a great privilege to know Brian Daehn. I always enjoy ministering with Brian on prophetic teams. In “God’s Prophetic People,” Brian not only clearly illustrates the need for apostolic and prophetic restoration so our sons in ministry have a solid foundation to build upon but also sets forth some very critical issues for the Church of the new millennium. Let this book stir up the fire that is in need of attention before it goes out. This book will help reposition the logs in the fire and stir dying embers to a new blaze. Dave L. Huebert Founding Pastor of Glad Tidings Fellowship, Chilliwack, B.C. Apostolic and Prophetic Minister “This book by Brian Daehn explores the keys to a prophetic people who fulfill the ultimate purpose of God for their lives, have a holy passion for God, and arise to take authority in the empowerment given by God. This book provides vital insights for any leader of how to implement these keys so that God’s people may truly be a Prophetic People.” Dr. David K. Blomgren Founding Pastor of Tampa Bay Christian Center, Tampa Bay, FL. Author, Teacher & Prophetic Minister

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"Brian Daehn is an outstanding teacher with a strong prophetic insight into what God is saying today. The material that he has developed is of real quality and will build and equip the believer for the work of God. I recommend it without reservation." K.R. (Dick) Iverson Founding Pastor of Manna House Church (formerly City Bible Church), founder of Portland Bible College, Founder and Chairman of Ministers Fellowship International, Author & Apostolic Minister. "Brian Daehn's book, 'God's Prophetic People' – definitely lives up to its name. It is a bit surprising that various authors and bookshops say that 'it's the cover that sells a book these days!' However, on the personal level, I evaluate a book by its CONTENT AND NOT BY IT'S COVER! Brian's book has plenty of excellent content and there are many, many sermons there for those who desire to teach and preach from the text. The Kingly, Priestly and Prophetic Ministries in the Church are spelt out clearly and in plenty of outline format and prophetic insight into what God is emphasizing today. Passion, worship, purpose and the prophetic are there to read and enjoy as well as being challenged. May the Lord bless this book to the Body of Christ, to preachers, teachers, students and prophetic people alike."

Kevin J. Conner Melbourne, AUSTRALIA (2011) Former Senior Pastor of City Life Church, Apostolic Teacher

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“Brian Daehn’s book, “ God’s Prophetic People” goes beyond what is presented many times in our day concerning recognizing and functioning in gifts of the Spirit associated with prophecy. This book is a thorough treatise on God’s heart to move upon and through His people throughout biblical history. This book invites us to not only yield our ears to God’s voice and to communicate His heart but also challenges us to be filled with passion for this purpose. God wants us to be filled with His presence and operate in His authority in bringing the Kingdom of God in this generation. Brian’s book leads us into what needs to take place in our understanding and dedication for this to take place. Knowing Brian personally over many years, I have observed that Brian is not just communicating information but truths about the prophetic that have shaped his life. Brian would be a great asset for any local church to host a prophetic seminar to equip its people to fulfill the promise of Joel that declared, “Your sons and your daughters will prophesy.” I encourage you to read this book and invite Brian into your church to equip your people to move in the grace of God’s prophetic voice.”

Bob MacGregor, Vice-Chairman, Minister Fellowship International Founder of His Church Ministries

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PREFACE

The material presented in this book has been used by God to awaken many churches and nations to the powerful move of His Spirit in the world today. Encouraged by pastors and leaders within the Body of Christ to compile these teachings into a book and workbook format, Brian set out to accomplish this so that God’s people could gain deeper revelation and understanding of what He is saying to His Church now and be stirred by the fresh outpouring of His Spirit. More than ever, we need prophetic people inside and outside the church to know the mind and will of God so they can bring Christ’s Kingdom of passion, purpose, and power to those in need within their sphere of influence. Brian has thoughtfully updated this material to impact the next generation of leaders, both within the church and in the spheres of education, business and beyond. His passion for God’s house, business leaders, and educators is infectious, and his ministry has borne much fruit worldwide, leading people into a revelatory understanding of what it means to be a prophetic people, and what they can accomplish by God’s grace in these last days. At a pivotal moment in his ministry, Brian felt called by the Lord to step back for several years to focus on his family and personal responsibilities. During this season, God opened his eyes to the needs of the less fortunate, as he ministered to individuals struggling with PTSD, substance abuse, mental health challenges, veterans, and those with physical ailments, all while engaging in deliverance ministry. Brian often reflects that he is a better person for having gone through this time of obscurity. After these years of quiet preparation, God powerfully visited Brian and his wife, Dedra, ushering them into a new season of ministry. Together, they are now excited to see God’s

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prophetic purpose unfold in their lives, and their heart is to cultivate a prophetic culture in God’s House, in business, and in educational spheres across the world. Brian’s prayer and vision is for all of God’s people to become a prophetic people, filled with holy passion, prophetic purpose, and divine power, advancing God’s Kingdom wherever they go. May this book inspire you to reach new heights and depths in Him. 1. To give foundational instruction to God’s prophetic people 2. To articulate certain characteristics of God's prophetic people 3. To clarify God's purpose for God's prophetic people 4. To enhance a holy passion for the Lord Himself 5. To create, encourage, and stimulate a worshipful experience 6. To provide practical insight into participating in and becoming God's prophetic people 7. To impart prophetic insight into the present moving of the Holy Spirit PURPOSE OF This Book:

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A WORD ON MEDITATION

The word instant is very common in our present society. Fast food stores, minute-tune shops, bank machines, microwave ovens, and high-powered computers giving vast amounts of information at a touch of the finger are the cultural norms. This has left a generation expecting instantaneous results in all areas of life. Unfortunately, this is not the divine pattern for lasting change to occur. God's ways for transformation involve His grace, time, circumstances, and self-discipline. One of the most important disciplines often overlooked in the Christian life is meditation. Meditation is: “A private devotional act consisting of deliberate reflection upon some spiritual truth or mystery, accompanied by mental prayer and by acts of the affection and of the will, especially formatio n of resolutions as to future conduct.” 1 Christian meditation is that which leads to an inner wholeness, resulting in transformation of the believer into Christ's image and likeness. Meditation was the key to Joshua's success (Joshua 1:8). It was and is the key to a blessed life (Psalm 1:1-2) and is the key to having God's Word written on the tablets of your heart (Deuteronomy 6:5-9). Meditation not only changes you when you actually do it but also stores up God's truth in your heart for use in all of life's circumstances. In Psalm 119:11, it is the Word of God deep within the believer's life which repels sin. In Psalm 19:7-11, it is the Word of God which restores the soul, makes wise the simple, rejoices the heart, enlightens the eyes, and rewards the individual who keeps it as their standard and compass for life. As Christians, we are to be a people who live by God's Word (Matthew 4:4). We were all born again by the Word of God and we all grow by that same Word. The Word of God is the food of our soul, and in order to be nourished by that food we must properly take it in and digest it. Meditation on God's Word is the digestive process by which we incorporate the Word of God into the deep recesses of our hearts — the wellspring of our lives.

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Toward the end of every chapter, you will notice a section entitled, "Scripture Reading and Meditation." After you have completed the book, the best way to ensure that God's Word becomes a part of your life is to meditate on each scripture for one day, then move on to the next verse. After you have completed all in one chapter, move to the next chapter, repeating the process as previously stated. If the Holy Spirit emphasizes one chapter more than the others, start with that chapter, then move on to the others.

May the Lord richly bless you as you seek to know Him

and His Word in a new and living way.

BRIAN DAEHN

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INTRODUCTION

Today we are living in a time period called the "Last Days." This age is characterized as being hazardous, perplexing, painful, dangerous, and hard to deal with — an age when our society is barren of virtue and abounding with vices (2 Timothy 3:1-9). All around us we are witnessing unholy passions running wild, people worshiping false gods, a generation wandering to and fro without purpose, Christians impaired by cultural lenses, and members of the Body of Christ not understanding their God-given power and authority. These facts by themselves would leave Christians discouraged, depressed, and possibly even defeated. Yet in the midst of all this, God is pouring out his spirit (Acts 2:17-21), bringing reconciliation, reformation, and restoration to His Church. God is pouring out His Spirit upon a new generation of believers — igniting them with holy passions, impregnating them with His purposes, revealing prophetic perspectives, and empowering them with divine authority to arise and fulfill the prophetic will of God for their lives. This book is designed to instruct and equip the local church to be God’s prophetic people . This is what God is doing in the midst of chaos and disarray. But unfortunately, there are many things which characterize our present culture. The following are some sad snapshots of our current societal deficits, affecting millions of people today: Marriage and divorce rates have declined over the past 10 years. 1 Although rates have also declined over the previous decades, the impact of divorce on the family and children is still devastating. Various factors have contributed to this decline, including changing attitudes toward marriage, growing support for same-sex marriage, and cohabitation before marriage. 2 a) Lack of friends/family/companions

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In addition to the emotional impact of divorce on the family, single parents are faced with being the sole provider and often are unable to earn a wage that can support the entire family. Often, child support is minimal, delayed, or non existent, which further compounds the physical and emotional toll on the single-parent household. Approximately 70% of mothers in the United States are working, which causes additional stress for the working mother, not to mention more time away from the home. Additionally, considering that 17% of children in the United States are physically abused, 11% are psychologically or emotionally abused, and 74% of these children are also neglected, the psychological and physical state these children grow up in devastating. 3 Between the breakdown of the family due to divorce, broken promises, an unhealthy view of relationships and family, and diminishing parental involvement, all contribute to the crisis we see for the family and children. Despite these statistics, many children — who do have stable homes where well-meaning parents desire to provide for their children —are relationally starved due to their parents’ time away, emotional fatigue, or stress. This diminished parental involvement has surfaced in sending the kids off to day care centers, private schools, sports activities, summer schools, Sunday schools, etc. The parents who are continually doing this are sending a strong message to their young, and that message is: We don’t have time for you. You’re an interruption. You’re not loved or wanted . Basically, the kids are on their own; they are alone. Janet Bernardi, a Gen Xer, writes in her book entitled “ A Generation Alone” , “Aloneness is not loneliness. While loneli - ness is a state of emptiness, in aloneness one’s life is full of ac - tivities but without the aid of family or friends. It encompasses a basic distrust of people and a fear of being hurt. Aloneness is largely about fear. It stems from abandonment or neglect and leads to alienation from friends, family, and society. Aloneness is a survival technique and comes across as independence. Aloneness separates this generation from every other.” 4

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The ultimate expression of unwantedness shown by parents, or parents-to-be, is the tragic expression of abortion — the taking of a helpless innocent little life desiring to break forth into our world. This sends a clear message of the inconvenience of loving, caring for, and raising children. It sends a clear message as to what our priorities are as a society.

The result: • Lack of true meaningful relationships or companionship • Lack of fundamental social skills and the feeling and experience of aloneness

God’s response: The calling, anointing, and releasing of God’s prophetic people .

b) Lack of trust in leadership Generation X, born into the Nixon era with all the untruthfulness and deception thereof, came into adulthood during the Clinton era, a time in which leadership became known for misleading the public. This is a generation that has witnessed the corruption in: A. Law enforcement: Bribes, beatings, boozers (alcoholics), and breakers of the law themselves. B. Religious community: Television evangelists and ministers falling to immorality and misuse of funds. Catholic priests molesting young boys and girls. C. Educational community: Teachers molesting children, teaching no moral or ethical absolutes, and not living any themselves. D. Family leadership: Many men not taking up their God-given role and responsibilities. Those who were

part of bringing about the birth of a child are now miles away, accepting no responsibility for the child’s future. And to top it off, many are now involved in other non-ethical relationships.

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E. Political leadership: From mayors to governors, and from governors to presidents, there has been enormous corruption: shady business deals, improper spending, improper sexual, relations, and the list goes on and on. The result: • Lack of good role models or examples to follow • Lack of tangible standards to measure anything by • Lack of trust in authority figures c) Lack of holy passion Our present society is characterized by passions running wild, like a river without any banks — sensuality, illicit sex, and trafficking children and young adults for sex. Pornography and child pornography has become a multi-billion-dollar business. Our society has become obsessed with possessions, rising to prominence and power. A passion for the supernatural has resulted in a rise in occultic practices, drug addiction, and other unhealthy and demonic practices. God’s response: The calling, anointing, and releasing of God’s prophetic people .

The result: • Uncontrolled passion for pleasure resulting in a Hedonistic society • Lack of holy passions

God’s response: The calling, anointing, and releasing of God’s prophetic people .

d) Lack of morality Technological advances over the past few decades have led us to Smart TV’s and phones, and social media platforms resulting in a mass of information available to all ages. Our current generation has been exposed to countless violent scenes

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on television and in movies, numerous depictions of murder, an array of provocative advertisements, and a multitude of explicit content. Television shows, advertisements, and social media portray adultery and same-sex relationships as common and widely accepted aspects of society. The result: • Faster maturation, yet a decline in moral foundations • Lack of moral standards God’s response: The calling, anointing, and releasing of God’s prophetic people . e) Lack of purpose What once defined the expectations of the Boomer Generation — that a college degree would lead to a secure and well-paying job — no longer holds true for many today. Despite earning various degrees, countless graduates now struggle to find positions that offer more than minimum wage. Even entry level roles in their fields are often filled by candidates with five to ten years of experience. Ironically, the rapid advancement of technology, once seen as a gateway to new, high-skilled jobs, has led to:

• The replacement of human workers by automated systems • Significant layoffs across industries • Machines that can be operated by individuals without higher education

This reality has led many in today’s generation to question the value of pursuing higher education, with some wondering, “Why should I invest in college if it won’t lead to a promising career or stable job?”

The result:

• Lack of vision • Lack of mission, goal(s) for life • Lack of purpose

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God’s response: The calling, anointing, and releasing of God’s prophetic people .

f) Lack of power/authority With the rise of humanistic philosophy, the New Age movement, and culturized Christianity, there has been a decline in applying biblical principles and practices in society. Nativity scenes are hardly allowed in public areas, prayer is no longer an acceptable practice in public schools, and the godly principles which formed our great nation have been pushed to the side. This has led to a significant rise in crime, a surge in drug abuse, widespread exposure to pornography, and an increase in cases of incest and child abuse. • Godly blessings • Godly families • Godly passions • Godly purpose and meaning in life • Godly success • Godly authority over the sin and circumstances that life brings The result: • Christian community having a form of godliness, but denying its power • Non-Christian community being empty and void • Lack of true power and authority When you remove God and His principles, you remove the power source which results in no more power for:

God’s response: The calling, anointing, and releasing of God’s prophetic people .

As a result of this lack there is a profound emptiness and many people today feel a deep void within. The crucial question now is: What or who will fill that space?

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I believe this generation is genuinely hungry for an authentic encounter with the Almighty. There is a strong desire to experience the reality of a deep, personal relationship with Jesus Christ. This generation longs for genuine, trustworthy leaders who can guide them through life’s challenges and serve as true role models. I also believe there is a powerful drive within this generation to live in purity before both God and others.

Is God responding to these desires and needs? Is God

intervening in this crisis situation?

The answer is YES!!!

Just as the Lord has done throughout history, He is moving once again. Just as He delivered the Israelites from Egypt, parted the Red Sea, brought water from the rock, provided supernatural food in the desert, and led His people through the Jordan and brought the people of Israel into their inheritance, so is the Lord now visiting His people anew. The Lord is pouring out His Spirit on all people. Individuals are experiencing the tangible reality of Jesus Christ and having divine, life-changing encounters. Hearts are surrendering to His will, and many are repenting of their sins. People are finding freedom from longstanding addictions and destructive habits that have plagued them for years. The power of the Holy Spirit is bringing renewal, reigniting pure passions, and reviving weary souls. People are receiving revelation for their lives and for the lives of others. People are being filled with the joy of the Lord! God Almighty is indeed responding to our present crisis, and He is doing more than filling this generation’s void. He is filling them with:

a) Passion: holy priestly passions b) Purpose: prophetic purpose c) Power: kingly power and authority

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God is not simply pouring out His Spirit to refresh His people. He is pouring out His Spirit to awaken, empower, and propel a generation toward fulfilling His prophetic purpose for their lives. God is raising up a prophetic generation — a generation of passion, purpose, and power.

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Chapter One

Kings, Priests, and Prophets

C urrently we are living in a time period labeled as the “Last Days.” This age is characterized as being hazardous, perplexing, painful, dangerous, and hard to deal with. The Apostle Paul describes this time period for us in 2 Timothy 3:1 9: But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! For of this sort are those who creep into households and make captives of gullible women loaded down with sins, led away by various lusts, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. Now as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, disapproved concerning the faith; but they will progress no further, for their folly will be manifest to all, as theirs also was. We are in an age when our society is barren from virtue and abounding with vices. Who will arise and take leadership? Who will arise and speak forth God’s truth? Who will arise and influence our generation toward godliness? God's prophetic people will arise, for they have been called, anointed, and empowered for such a time as this (Esther 4:14; Isaiah 60:1-7; Luke 4:18-19; Acts 1:8; 2:17-21; 1 John 2:27).

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A People of Passion, Purpose, and Power / © Brian Daehn God is truly pouring out His Spirit across the nations. He is imparting kingly power and authority, igniting priestly passion, and releasing prophetic purpose upon men and 24 Esther was God’s appointed instrument of righteousness in her time, and she changed the course of history. Esther 4:14: “For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this? ” (italics added). Our current situation is not unlike the days of Esther. Fear seeks to surround and paralyze God’s people, but there is a growing passion pushing them beyond their fears, propelling them into the forefront of history, and empowering them to boldly proclaim the Word and will of the Lord. If you are a born-again Christian and choose to remain silent, you risk missing your divine appointment and the opportunity to fulfill your purpose. Like Esther, you have the privilege and calling to be an instrument of righteousness for your nation. As was stated previously, the Last Days are characterized by perilous times, yet we must remember that God always has the last word on everything. God’s Word states in Acts 2:17-21: And it shall come to pass in the Last Days, says God, That I will pour out of my spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions, your old men shall dream dreams. And upon my menservants and on my maidservants, I will pour out my Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy. I will show wonders in heaven above and signs in the earth beneath: blood and fire and smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.

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women around the world. To further illustrate the Last Days, carefully analyze the following diagram:

The “Last Days” is a biblical term which specifies a particular time period (age) during which definite events will take place. It is the time period between the first coming and the second coming of Christ (Isaiah 2:2; Micah 4:1; Acts 2:17; 1 Timothy 4:1, 2 Timothy 3:1; Hebrews 1:2). The following are some signs that have taken place, are taking place, or have yet to take place: b) Both men and women will prophesy (Acts 2:17b). c) People — young and old — will receive revelation from the Lord (visions and dreams, which is the language of the spirit; Acts 2:17c with Hebrews 1:1). d) There will be wonders in the heavens and signs on the earth (Acts 2:20-21). e) God will build and establish His Church, and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it (Isaiah 2:1-2-3; Matt.16:18; Acts 2:21). f) Sin will abound, yet grace will abound all the more (2 Tim.3:1-9; Rom.5:20b). g) There will be bold proclamation of the gospel of the Kingdom (Acts 2:22-47). a) The Holy Spirit will be poured out upon all flesh (Acts 2:17a).

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For us as born again, Spirit-filled believers to fulfill the prophetic will of God in these "Last Days," we must be a people of kingly power and authority (reigning with Christ), priestly passion (Davidic worshipers who worship in Spirit and truth), and prophetic purpose, (declaring and articulating God’s plans and purposes) to a lost and dying generation.

I. Functions/Roles IN THE OLD TESTAMENT A. KINGS

1. To lead the people

“The elders of Israel gathered together and said to Sam- uel the prophet at Ramah; ‘You are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways; now appoint a king to lead us , such as all the other nations have’” 1 Samuel 8:5 (NIV, italics added). Here, the elders of Israel were desiring a king like the other nations had who would lead them in the various aspects of national interests. A particular function of a king in those days was leading their armies into battle. A lot of the battles took place in the spring and summer months. 2 Samuel 11:1 gives us insight into this: “It happened in the spring of the year, at the time when kings go out to battle, that David sent Joab and his servants with him, and all Israel: and they destroyed the people of Ammon and besieged Rabbah. But David remained at Jerusalem” (emphasis added). David, the mighty king, led his people into victory time and time again. He stood head and shoulders above other kings who took their battle positions at the front of the armies. He was an outstanding warrior king who led his nation into liberty, giving glory to God. Unfortunately, for some reason this time he did not lead his army into battle. The results are tragic,

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leading to the incident with Bathsheba. From adultery, which was forbidden by Hebrew law, the web of sin enlarged itself to include further deceit and the planned murder of a faithful soldier. David’s transgression is a classic example of the growth of sin in a person’s life (2 Samuel 15:1 -18:18; James 1:13-15). Today, God is calling many to the front lines of battle. This battle, however, is not a battle against flesh and blood, but a battle against principalities and powers of wickedness in heavenly places (Eph.6:12). What will you do when God calls your name? How will you respond to God’s invitation to join His army? Will you respond negatively like David did, which resulted in sin and disgrace? Or will you respond in faith and be part of the greatest army on heaven and earth? Let us all respond like the prophet Isaiah did in Isaiah 6:8: “Here I am Lord, send me.”

2. To rule/reign over the people

The two key words here are rule and reign :

The word rule means: controlling power, exercising

government and authority. 1

The word reign is similar yet has a little different meaning. It is defined as follows: The possession or exercise of supreme power, especially royal power, sovereignty, dominion. 2 The king, as we can clearly see by these definitions, has quite an influential place in the lives of his subjects.

3. To judge the people

Being a judge over people was quite a responsibility, requiring great wisdom and integrity. As we look to the book of Judges, we can gain new insights into the nature of Yahweh’s rule and Israel’s obligations to Yahweh. In the book of Judges, the Bible introduces a central theological concept: God’s

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kingdom is God’s rule over His chosen people. The Israelites voluntarily accepted God’s rule, lordship, and sovereignty. The people of Israel learned that they needed a God-directed leader who would ensure their loyalty to God. Without such a leader, the people would do whatever was right in their own eyes. The main functions of the judge were to maintain the covenant stipulations among the people and to bring deliverance when needed.

4. To enact laws toward the people

The king looks out for the betterment of the people. He is the chief and the ultimate authority. The king keeps order throughout the nation in all classes of life.

B. PRIESTS

A. To give instructions of the law (Malachi 2; Hosea 4:1-10) B. To maintain and reestablish the holiness of God’s chosen people (Exodus 28:38; Leviticus 10:7; Numbers 18:1) C. To discover the will of God by means of the ephod (I Samuel 23:6-12) D. To be guardians of the sanctuary (I Samuel 14:18) E. To offer sacrifices unto the Lord (Leviticus)

The following is a list of some of the offerings and their

subsequent categories:

a. Expiatory offerings – sin and guilt b. Consecratory offerings – burnt, grain, drink c. Communal offerings – peace, wave, thank, votive, freewill, ordination

F. To mediate the covenant of God to Israel (Malachi 2:4; Numbers 18:19; Jeremiah 33:20-26)

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a. Worship (passion for God) b. Intercession (passion for people) c. Application of God’s Word to people (pastoral feeding, blessing, care, etc.)

C. PROPHETS

1. To be a watchman (Ezekiel 3:17; 33:7; Hosea 9:8; Habakkuk 2:1) One who watches for the revelations of the Lord. 2. To give guidance (Moses, Samuel, Elisha) 3. To be God's spokesman . To announce God's plans and purposes. a) Forthtell – Speaking to the present situation, often appealing to the past in order to pointedly address the present. b) Foretell – Predictive of future events. This was/is often conditional upon the response of the hearer. 4. To call people and nations to repent of their ways (I Samuel 12:1-15, Isaiah 58:1; 40:1-2; Jeremiah 4; Malachi 4:4) 5. To speak and write scripture (Daniel, Ezra, Isaiah, Moses etc.)

II. THE FULFILLMENT IN CHRIST JESUS

A. Jesus Christ as KING

1. Prophesied by Isaiah (Isaiah 7:14; 9:6) “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon his shoulders. His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” 2. Prophesied by David (Psalm 110:1-7) “The LORD said to my Lord. Sit at my right hand till I make your enemies your footstool. The Lord shall send the rod of your strength out of Zion.”

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3. Confirmed by Magi (Matthew 2:1-6) a) Gold – symbol of kingship, perfection, glory b) Frankincense – symbol of fragrance, worship, adoration, beauty c) Myrrh – symbolic of suffering, reminds us of His preciousness and sweetness in His death 4. Confirmed by God Himself (Matthew 3:16-17) 5. Daniel spoke of Him as the God of gods and Lord of kings (Daniel 2:47, 4:37) 6. John spoke of Him as the king of the saints, the Lamb who will overcome and the King of kings and Lord of lords (Rev. 15:3; 17:14; 19:16) 7. Jesus Christ is preeminent over all (Ephesians 1:19-23; Colossians 1:18) “And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence” (Colossians 1:18). 1. Jesus Christ is our great High Priest in the order of Melchizedek (Hebrews 5:6, 10; 7:1-28; 8:16) 2. Jesus Christ intercedes for us (John 17:1-28) 3. Jesus Christ was the innocent, holy, undefiled sacrifice for sins (Hebrews 7:26-27) 4. Jesus Christ's atonement for sins was unlike other high priests (Hebrews 9:11-15) 5. Christ's priestly ministry is superior to that of Jewish priests (Hebrews 7:20 - 8:6) a) Christ’s priestly ministry is endless – A priest forever, our great High Priest forever (eternal) b) Christ’s priestly ministry is changeless – He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (absolute) B. Jesus Christ as the Great HIGH PRIEST

c) Christ’s priestly ministry is perfect – He was and is sinless, spotless, and has no need of anything or anybody (complete)

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Jesus Christ as our High Priest lives and serves forever; He has no successors. He continually lives to make intercession on our behalf to the Father. His one-time, all inclusive sacrifice of Himself serves as the way to salvation for all who will believe.

C. Jesus Christ as PROPHET

1. The Pattern Prophet (Deuteronomy 18:15-19)

Often, we readily accept Jesus Christ in our thoughts as our redeemer, intercessor, or our great high priest, but it ends there. We must be true to what the Bible says--Christ Jesus is not simply the pattern priest who would instruct the people in the details of the Law. He would also be the pattern prophet who would not only fulfill the Law, but demonstrate the very spirit of the Law. Jesus Christ, through His very life and ministry, showed the true spiritual meaning behind the letter of the Law. Jesus Chr ist was God’s perfect mouthpiece, the long-awaited Messiah, the ultimate fulfillment of the Law, and the One who not only speaks God’s Word but is God’s Word (Hebrews 1:1-3). In John 4:5-19, we find the story of Jesus meeting the woman at the well. Jesus — needing to go through Samaria — came to a city called Shechem. At the outskirts of this city was an old well, called “Jacob’s well,” where people came to draw water. At this well the Samaritan woman had a divine appointment with Jesus Christ. A Samaritan woman and a Jew at the same well at the same time was culturally forbidden during those days, but they entered a discussion together, and then the Lord told her in John 4:14: “…but whoev er drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water 2. The Samaritan woman declared Him a prophet (John 4:19)

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that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.” The Samaritan woman said she desired this water which Jesus was telling her about, and Jesus responded in verse sixteen, “Go, call your husband, and come here.” The woman answered that she didn’t have a husband. In verses seventeen and eighteen, Jesus replied, “You have well said, ‘I have no husband,’ for you have had five husbands, and the one whom you now have is not your husband; in that you spoke truly.” Her response in verse nineteen was, “Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet…”

3. The people declared Him to be a prophet due to His

works (John 9:17, Luke 7:16, 24:19)

Throughout the gospels we see Jesus healing the sick, giving sight to the blind, setting the captives free, and raising people from the dead. In Luke 7:16, after Jesus raised the son of the widow at Nain from the dead, the Bible says, “Then great fear came upon all, and they glorified God, saying, ‘A great prophet has risen among us and God has visited His people.’”

4. The people of faith saw Christ as the last, great eschatological prophet (John 6:14)

Jesus Christ, as our pattern prophet, not only received and proclaimed God’s Word, not only fulfilled and demonstrated the spirit of the Law, but also was the living Word of God, who appeared to us in human flesh. “The ministry of Jesus Christ is to all men. He is the PATTERN for all who share in the administration of forgiveness and blessing. He who was the Prince of Peace, the recipient of peace, and has now become the King of Peace, the Administrator of Peace.

” K. Varner, The More Excellent Ministry . 3

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III. GOD’S Prophetic People

Acts 2:17-22; 3:22, 26; 1 Peter 2:9, Colossians 1:25-29; 2:9-10

As Jesus Christ ascended into the Father in heaven, He sent His Holy Spirit to dwell in us. This mystery is that Christ Jesus dwells within us. As Christ Jesus Himself was king, priest and prophet, so we as born again, spirit-filled believers have kingly, priestly and prophetic deposits in our lives! The Christ nature, this new nature, is within us and the Kingdom of God is within us.

A. KINGLY Aspects

1. A part of royalty (1 Peter 2:9)

We belong to a royal priesthood; we have been adopted by royalty. Having been born again, we are now part of a new family whose father is the King of Kings. We can now call Him our very own Abba Father. It doesn't matter where you come from or what your social status once was. As a born-again believer, you are now adopted into a royal family, with all the riches and authority that come with it. As a child of God, you now have:

The power of kings – Power over sin, sickness, and Satan

a) The riches of kings – Christ’s unsearchable riches b) The apparel of kings – Christ’s robes of righteousness c) The fare of kings – All your needs supplied d) The retinue of kings – Angels’ charge over you

2. Having authority and power over (Romans 6; Matthew 10:1-2, Luke 10:19, Revelation 12:11):

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a)SIN – “For sin shall not have dominion over you…” (Romans 6:14). b) EVIL SPIRITS – “And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out…” (Matthew 10:1a). c) SICKNESS – “…and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease” (Matthew 10:1b). d) SATAN – “Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you” (Luke 10:19). 3. Reigning with Christ (Romans 5:17-19; 2 Timothy 2:12; Revelation 5:10, 22:5) The kingly aspects of God's prophetic people are those divine deposits which enable this generation to rise up and take authority over circumstances, sin, and Satan. 1. Priesthood of all believers As we see in the New Testament, all believers are a part of the priesthood. This was not always the case as we look into the Old Testament. The following chart is a comparison between the Old Testament priesthood and the New Testament priesthood. B. PRIESTLY Aspects

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The New Testament writers also show clearly that the priesthood of all believers is in Christ. It is a priesthood after the order of Melchizedek. It is a royal priesthood. Believers are both kings and priests unto God… under the Old Covenant only one tribe of the nation Israel was chosen to be priests to God and his people. Under the New Covenant all believers in Christ, regardless of nation — Jew or Gentile — are chosen to be priests unto God and his Christ. - Conner Kevin, New Covenant Realities 4 The Old Covenant has been fulfilled and abolished. Because of what Jesus Christ has done for us who believe, we now come under the Melchizedek priesthood of Christ and his Church. This is an eternal priesthood. We are now a royal priesthood and called to be a spiritual house, to offer up spiritual sacrifices to the Lord and King of Kings (1 Peter 2:5-9). Martin Luther’s greatest contribution to Protestant ecclesiology would have to be his doctrine of the priesthood of all believers. We can find his statement in The Theology of the Reformers by Timothy George: “Every believer is a priest by virtue of his baptism. This priesthood derives directly from Christ; ‘We are priests as he is Priest, sons as he is Son, Kings as he is King.’” 5 With so many different doctrines blowing around us today, it is important to keep a proper biblical perspective in regard to this foundational doctrine. A couple of wrong perspectives of this doctrine are as follows: • There are no priests in the Church, the secularization of clergy. • Every Christian is their own priest and therefore has the right to personal judgment in matters of faith and doctrine.

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