In the world of spirituality, prophecy is quite important, especially in Christianity. Prophets have always had vital roles. They deliver messages from God, warn about future events, and provide guidance to people and nations. But what does it mean to be a prophetic person today? Do you have the gift of prophecy, or is it only for a select few? Let’s explore the meaning of prophecy in Christianity.
In the quest to explore the diverse world of prophetic personalities, it is essential to provide clarity and coherence regarding the types, characteristics, and significance of these individuals. Understanding how prophetic personalities function and contribute to the greater spiritual narrative is a journey that can be enlightening and transformative, drawing inspiration from the insights of Nate Johnston.
Understanding Prophecy in the Biblical Context
To comprehend the essence of prophecy, one must turn to the Bible, where numerous instances of prophetic utterances and actions are recorded. From the Old Testament prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel to the New Testament figures such as John the Baptist and the apostle John, the Scriptures are replete with accounts of individuals who were chosen by God to convey His messages to humanity.
Old Testament Prophets
In the Old Testament, prophets served as intermediaries between God and His people, often delivering messages of warning, rebuke, or encouragement. They were tasked with speaking truth to power, calling out injustice, and pointing the way back to God’s covenant relationship with His chosen people. The prophetic books are filled with declarations of judgment and promises of restoration, providing a roadmap for righteous living and spiritual renewal.
One of the most prominent examples of prophetic ministry in the Old Testament is found in the book of Isaiah. In Isaiah 6:8-9, the prophet receives his divine commission:
“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’ He said, ‘Go and tell this people: ‘Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.”
New Testament Prophets
In the New Testament, the prophetic ministry takes on new dimensions with the advent of Jesus Christ. He is often referred to as the ultimate fulfillment of prophecy, as countless Old Testament prophecies find their culmination in His life, death, and resurrection. Jesus Himself spoke prophetically, foretelling future events, revealing hidden truths, and proclaiming the arrival of God’s kingdom on earth.
One of the clearest examples of Jesus’ prophetic ministry is found in Luke 4:18-19, where He declares His mission:
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
Characteristics of Prophetic Individuals
While the term “prophet” may conjure images of dramatic visions and thunderous pronouncements, being a prophetic person encompasses more than just foretelling the future. It involves embodying certain characteristics and living in alignment with God’s purposes.
Spiritual Sensitivity
Prophetic people are often deeply attuned to the spiritual realm, able to discern the voice of God amidst the noise of the world. They have a heightened sensitivity to the leading of the Holy Spirit and are quick to respond to His prompting.
In 1 Corinthians 2:14-15, the apostle Paul writes about the discernment of spiritual truths:
“The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit. The person with the Spirit makes judgments about all things, but such a person is not subject to merely human judgments.”
Courageous Truth-Telling
Prophetic individuals are not afraid to speak truth to power, even when it may be unpopular or controversial. They are willing to confront injustice, challenge societal norms, and call people to repentance, regardless of the consequences.
In Ezekiel 3:17-19, God commissions Ezekiel as a watchman over Israel:
“Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the people of Israel; so hear the word I speak and give them warning from me. When I say to a wicked person, ‘You will surely die,’ and you do not warn them or speak out to dissuade them from their evil ways in order to save their life, that wicked person will die for their sin, and I will hold you accountable for their blood. But if you do warn the wicked person and they do not turn from their wickedness or from their evil ways, they will die for their sin; but you will have saved yourself.”
Compassionate Heart
Despite their boldness, prophets also possess a compassionate heart, deeply concerned for the well-being of others. They weep with those who weep, rejoice with those who rejoice, and tirelessly advocate for the marginalized and oppressed.
In Micah 6:8, the prophet Micah declares:
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Vision for Restoration
Prophetic people often have a vision for restoration and renewal, both individually and corporately. They see beyond the present circumstances to the possibility of God’s redemption and transformation, believing in His power to bring beauty out of ashes.
In Joel 2:25-26, the prophet Joel speaks of God’s promise of restoration:
“I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten— the great locust and the young locust, the other locusts and the locust swarm— my great army that I sent among you. You will have plenty to eat, until you are full, and you will praise the name of the Lord your God, who has worked wonders for you; never again will my people be shamed.”
Integrity and Humility
True prophets exhibit integrity and humility in their words and actions. They do not seek personal glory or recognition but instead point others towards God’s glory. They are willing to admit their own shortcomings and rely wholly on God’s grace.
In 1 Peter 5:5-6, the apostle Peter writes about the importance of humility:
“In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”
Personal Reflections on Prophetic Calling
As a Christian, I have often wrestled with the concept of prophecy and what it means for my own life. While I may not claim to be a prophet in the traditional sense, I believe that all believers are called to prophetic living – that is, living in accordance with God’s truth and bearing witness to His love and righteousness in the world.
For me, being a prophetic person means being willing to step out in faith, even when it feels uncomfortable or daunting. It means being open to the leading of the Holy Spirit and allowing God to use me as an instrument of His will. It means speaking up for justice, showing mercy to the broken, and embodying the values of the kingdom of God in my everyday interactions.
I have also come to realize that prophecy is not just about predicting the future, but about proclaiming God’s truth in the present moment. It is about speaking words of hope and encouragement to those who are struggling, reminding them of God’s faithfulness and His promise to never leave nor forsake them.
Ultimately, being a prophetic person is a journey of faith, marked by moments of doubt and uncertainty, as well as moments of profound clarity and revelation. It is a journey that requires steadfastness, humility, and above all, a deep love for God and His people.
The Divine Purpose of Individuals
Have you ever paused to contemplate the extraordinary role each individual plays in the grand design of the Almighty? It may come as a revelation that within His divine plan, you, yes, you, are a profoundly powerful and effective instrument. Your life’s purpose extends beyond the boundaries of ordinary existence, reaching into the realm of the divine. You are meant to reflect the splendor and majesty of your Creator to a world that yearns for a deeper connection and fervently seeks Him.
In the context of prophetic personalities, it becomes evident that they, too, are integral components of this divine tapestry. Just as the Lord spoke to Ananias about Saul, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel” (Acts 9:15 ESV), prophetic personalities are chosen instruments with unique callings. They are called to reveal and convey the message of the divine to a world hungry for spiritual insights and guidance.
Within this intricate narrative of divine purpose, prophetic individuals emerge as vital conduits of God’s wisdom and revelations. Their roles are multi-faceted, encompassing a diverse array of characteristics and functions. As we explore these prophetic tool personalities and their significance, we gain a deeper understanding of how they contribute to the greater spiritual narrative.
Each prophetic tool, whether a key, a hammer, a pen, a bell, a timepiece, a telescope, or a lightning rod, plays a distinct role in fulfilling the divine plan, much like a musician in a grand symphony, adding unique notes to the melodious composition of God’s divine purpose for humanity.
The 7 tool types, operational type as well as the prophetic ministry shall be discussed below.
The 7 Prophetic Tool Personalities
Let’s delve into a comprehensive exploration of the seven distinct prophetic tool personalities, each contributing significantly to shaping the spiritual landscape, as illuminated by Nate Johnston:
1. The Key
The metaphorical “Key” represents an essential instrument within the prophetic toolkit. Those who embody this personality serve as revelators, equippers, trainers, disciples, and imparters within the Body of Christ. Their primary mission is to prepare and empower the Body for service, aligning with the principles outlined in Ephesians 4:12. These individuals are tasked with unveiling the secrets and revelations of the Kingdom, expanding its boundaries, and propelling it further into the world.
2. The Hammer
In the prophetic realm, “The Hammer” symbolizes a crucial role in the Church’s reformation. Often referred to as “refitters,” these individuals are responsible for repairing and restoring various aspects of the Church from within. They serve as catalysts for change, challenging stagnant and outdated structures that hinder spiritual growth and productivity. By confronting these obstacles, they create a path for renewed vitality and effectiveness within the Church.
3. The Pen
“The Pen” characterizes those who convey the Word of the Lord through their creative and administrative talents. This diverse group includes scribes, songwriters, psalmists, authors, policy writers, and individuals entrusted with the task of delivering the Word to others. Through their unique artistic and communicative abilities, they have a profound impact on illuminating the path to spiritual understanding and transformation.
4. The Bell
A significant revelation came to Nate Johnston during the late hours of the night, focusing on individuals known as “bellringers.” These prophetic personalities possess a higher calling than merely summoning the Body for worship and prayer. They serve as heralds of a call to justice and resonate with a powerful cry for freedom that reverberates throughout the world. Their mission extends far beyond the confines of conventional religious gatherings, actively championing social justice and spiritual freedom.
5. The Timepiece
“The Timepiece” represents those with the remarkable ability to discern the times and seasons within the prophetic landscape. These prophetic timekeepers are invaluable, as they possess the skill to identify shifts and alterations within specific periods. With precision, they predict when God is orchestrating significant events. By offering a valuable roadmap and clarity, they guide individuals through periods of uncertainty and confusion, ensuring that they align with divine timing and purpose.
6. The Telescope
An intriguing prophetic personality, “The Telescope,” signifies the gift of foresight and long-term vision. Those who embody this personality possess the unique ability to foresee events and provide guidance to the Body of Christ. This gift draws parallels with the late prophet Kim Clement, renowned for his accuracy and purity in operating within this realm. According to Nate Johnston, this particular gift is expected to become increasingly prevalent in the future, offering profound insights into God’s unfolding plan.
7. The Lightning Rod
In a series of recurring dreams, Nate Johnston experienced vivid lightning strikes, which led to the revelation of a prophetic archetype known as “The Lightning Rod.” These individuals serve as vessels of God’s power and glory, facilitating a transition of the Church from the past into the future. Much like lightning disrupts physical power systems, these prophetic “lightning rods” disrupt oppressive forces that have long dominated regions and cities.
Positioned on an elevated platform, they have the unique ability to detect and perceive hidden truths, ultimately ushering in transformation on a global scale.
Operating from elevated positions, these lightning rods possessed the ability to detect and perceive things that eluded others. In the days and weeks to come, these heavenly conductors would emerge, striking and reclaiming territory. They would restore the rights and ownership of regions and places that had been stolen or usurped, bringing about transformation on a global scale.
Operational Prophetic Personalities
Within the realm of operational prophetic personalities, four distinct types emerge, each with unique characteristics, as elaborated by Nate Johnston:
1. The Knower
The knower is characterized by an innate intuition and a profound connection with divine guidance. Just as Paul sensed an instinctive bond with Timothy that led to mentorship, the knower possesses an uncanny ability to discern their purpose without necessarily receiving a direct word or encounter for confirmation. It’s as though a divine compass points them in the right direction, and they have a deep conviction about what they are meant to do or where they should go.
2. The Hearer
The hearer is attuned to the voice of God, often receiving specific messages or guidance through a verse or a phrase that spontaneously pops into their mind. This form of prophetic communication can be likened to a classic play-by-play narration, where they listen and transmit what they hear. Their ability to tune into the divine frequency allows them to relay God’s precise messages to others, offering guidance, encouragement, and insight.
3. The Seer
The seer possesses a visionary capacity, and God grants them a panoramic view of His grand design for life. They see the big picture, the overarching vision that God has for them and for others. However, this overarching vision can sometimes be so vast and intricate that it may take a lifetime to fully realize. While they grapple with the details of life, their visionary insights guide their journey, paving the way for profound accomplishments and long-term transformations.
4. The Feeler
Feelers are individuals uniquely attuned to God’s emotional spectrum. They often receive and experience deep emotions, not for themselves but as a means to partner with God in interceding for people, especially those within their family and community. These emotions serve as a conduit for powerful prayers and intercessions, allowing them to connect on a deep emotional level with the needs and concerns of others. Feelers embody God’s compassion and empathy, making them effective conduits for His mercy and healing.
Each of these operational prophetic personalities plays a crucial role in facilitating divine communication and guiding individuals on their spiritual journeys. While distinct in their methods and gifts, they collectively contribute to the tapestry of prophetic ministry, enriching the spiritual experiences of those they encounter.
The Prophetic Ministries
Explore the various prophetic ministries that have contributed to the tapestry of spiritual understanding, guided by the insights of Nate Johnston:
1. The Realm of Mysteries
Within the realm of prophetic mysteries, the Holy Spirit communicates with us through enigmatic means, such as dreams, visions, prophetic parables, and symbolic imagery. This domain is one of profound revelation, often requiring interpretation, as the meaning is not always immediately apparent. Just as the prophet Daniel unraveled Nebuchadnezzar’s dreams or Ezekiel deciphered the visions of cherubim, we, too, delve into these mysteries, seeking divine understanding in the obscure.
2. The Realm of Knowledge
Prophetic knowledge holds a pivotal role in the prophetic ministry. Some prophets operate within the realm of knowledge, enabling them to grasp actual events in the past, present, and future. This includes “foretelling,” where they discern and convey the divine foresight. Think of the prophet Samuel, who foretold the recovery of lost donkeys, provided present insights, and shared guidance about the future kingship of Saul.
3. Prophetic Writing
Prophetic writing has left an indelible mark on our spiritual heritage. Many prophets, inspired by the Holy Spirit, recorded their divine revelations. These writings encompass a variety of genres, from poetry, like the prophet Habakkuk’s poetic expressions, to historical accounts, prophecies, and more. In the biblical context, we find prophets who penned their prophecies, such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel. Additionally, some prophetesses, like Huldah, conveyed their messages verbally, offering valuable prophetic counsel.
4. Prophetic Arts and Creative
The prophetic ministry extends to the realm of creativity and dramatic expression. Ezekiel, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, engaged in prophetic acts that powerfully conveyed divine messages. Through prophetic sculpture, art, and dramatic performances, he illustrated the impending judgment of Jerusalem, demonstrating the artistic dimension of prophetic communication. These creative expressions not only convey God’s message but also ignite the imagination and understanding of those who witness them.
5. Prophetic Worship and Music
Music, a universal language, has been profoundly influenced by prophetic voices. The Psalms, attributed to King David, contain prophetic insights and poetic expressions that have touched the hearts of countless individuals. King David himself was a musician, and his psalms have transcended time, revealing profound spiritual truths through music. The prophetic ministry encompasses songwriters, psalmists, and musicians who use their talents to inspire and bring people closer to God, just as David did with his psalms.
6. Prophetic Speaking (Utterance)
Prophetic utterance is a dynamic aspect of the prophetic ministry, characterized by the spoken word. God’s chosen prophets and prophetesses have been endowed with a unique voice, echoing the divine message. Jeremiah, for example, was given a prophetic voice that likened God’s words to fire, igniting a transformational impact. Haggai and Zechariah delivered timely exhortations that encouraged and guided the Jewish leaders during pivotal moments.
7. Prophetic Prayer and Intercession
The prophetic ministry finds a powerful expression in prayer and intercession. Prayer has been central to the lives of numerous prophets, exemplified by Daniel’s dedication to prayer, fasting, and intercession. This divine communion empowers prophets to seek God’s guidance and intercede on behalf of the people. Anna, a prophetic intercessor in the New Testament, experienced the fulfillment of her prayers with the arrival of Jesus, demonstrating the profound impact of prophetic prayer.
8. Prophetic Dreams and Interpretation
The gift of understanding and interpreting dreams and visions has been a cornerstone of the prophetic ministry. The prophet Daniel, for instance, was blessed with the ability to discern and interpret dreams. His interpretations extended to personal dreams and visions, as well as those that foretold the future. This divine gift not only unveils hidden truths but also provides a roadmap for God’s people, helping them navigate uncertain times.
9. Signs and Wonders Prophets
Moses, Elijah, and Elisha were renowned prophets who wielded the power of signs and wonders. They performed extraordinary miracles, transcending the laws of nature, and became vessels of God’s extraordinary power. Moses, with the parting of the Red Sea, and Elijah, through the restoration of life, are iconic examples of the signs and wonders prophets who showcased God’s might.
10. Prophetic Visionaries / Seers
The prophetic ministry often unfolds through visual imagery and visionary experiences. Prophets like Jeremiah used simple yet powerful images to convey profound messages. A branch of an almond tree and a boiling pot, for instance, conveyed intricate meanings, visually engaging the audience in the divine narrative. In the Book of Revelation, the apostle John’s visions paint vivid pictures of future events, exemplifying the prophetic visionary’s role.
11. Prophetic Teaching and Preaching
Prophetic voices aren’t limited to foretelling but also engage in teaching and preaching. The prophet Moses, a revered teacher and prophet, conveyed divine wisdom and guidance to the people. In the New Testament, Silas, a prophet, strengthened and encouraged the early church with his teachings. Prophetic teaching and preaching serve as vehicles for imparting God’s truth and equipping believers for their spiritual journey.
Conclusion
Your greatest hour has arrived! The culmination of your life’s journey has led you to this precise moment. God, in His divine wisdom, has carefully prepared and positioned you for a specific assignment—an assignment that holds the power to make an indelible impact. You are stepping into your most effective season, a season where your unique gifts and calling will harmonize with God’s divine plan.
As you release the confusion and doubt that may have lingered from your past, you open a gateway for God to work mightily through you. He will guide you, empower you, and equip you to be His mighty warrior in this world. Your purpose is about to shine brilliantly, and your influence will radiate God’s love, truth, and transformative power, touching the lives of those around you. Embrace this moment, for you are an instrument of God’s grace, poised to fulfill your destiny and make a lasting difference.