What Does the Bible Say About Prophecy?
Key Scriptures and spiritual guidance on prophecy
The Bible presents prophecy as a significant aspect of divine communication, where God reveals His plans and purposes to humanity. In the Old Testament, prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel conveyed messages from God, often calling people to repentance and foretelling future events. These prophetic messages were meant to guide, warn, and encourage the people of Israel, emphasizing God's sovereignty and faithfulness.
In the New Testament, the role of prophecy continues, with Jesus Himself fulfilling many Old Testament prophecies. The Apostle Paul discusses the gift of prophecy in 1 Corinthians 12-14, highlighting its importance for the edification of the church. Prophecy is seen as a spiritual gift that can provide insight, encouragement, and guidance to believers, helping them to understand God's will for their lives and the community.
Additionally, the Bible teaches that prophecy should be tested and discerned. In 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21, Paul advises believers not to despise prophecies but to test everything and hold on to what is good. This indicates that while prophecy is a valuable tool for spiritual growth, it must align with Scripture and be evaluated carefully to ensure it is truly from God.
Bible Verses About Prophecy
Isaiah 46:10KJV
“Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:”
Jeremiah 29:11KJV
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”
Amos 3:7KJV
“Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.”
Matthew 24:34KJV
“Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.”
The Acts of the Apostles 2:17KJV
“And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:”
Revelation 19:10KJV
“And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”
1 Thessalonians 5:20–21KJV
“Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.”
Go Deeper
Chat with Moses, David, or Paul about Prophecy
The Bible Pics app lets you have a real conversation with biblical figures — ask them anything about prophecy and get answers rooted in Scripture.
