Have you ever paused to consider what it truly means to have a prophetic gift or to be called to the office of a prophet? Understanding these two differences can enlighten and transform your understanding as a believer, especially if you are called to the prophetic. In this post, we'll uncover these distinctions, offering you a glimpse into the layers of the real difference between prophetic gift vs. prophet's office!
Prophetic Gift: Available To All:
The prophetic gift is an extraordinary endowment from the Holy Spirit, allowing individuals to receive and communicate divine messages. These messages can manifest through dreams, visions, and prophecy. This gift is not confined to a select few; it is accessible to any believer who is open by faith to receive it and agree with the word of God.
"And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions." - Joel 2:28
The Real Difference Between Prophetic Gift vs. Prophet's Office: More Than Just a Gift:
While all believers may be graced with the prophetic gift, not everyone is destined to be a prophet. It’s important to understand that simply having the ability to prophesy, dream, or see visions does not make one a prophet. To step into the prophet's office requires a divine calling from God. This role transcends merely receiving messages—it involves a profound responsibility to steward these revelations wisely and lead within the body of Christ.
The obvious is that the prophets prophesy and intercede and inquiring of God on behalf of people. But Prophecy is the basics for a prophet. The duties of the prophet are extensive and vital; Prophets spend their time guarding, governing, guiding, and directing. Prophets also engage in counseling, teaching, preaching, correcting, rebuking, delivering, and restoring. They play a crucial role in interceding, engaging in spiritual warfare, and equipping the body of Christ, and may develop others in the prophetic as well. Some prophets work in tandem with Apostles to help to lay foundational work for building people and organizations.
Moreover, prophets are accountable first to God before anyone else, as they serve as His defenders and representatives on earth—His spoken voice through human vessels. Their role is confirmed through divine appointment and also recognized by the affirmation of existing leaders in spiritual authority. This dual acknowledgment underscores the serious nature of their calling and their integral role in the spiritual governance of the church community.
Prophets have been around before the Church was a thing. However, that does not license prophets to be separate and a part of the Church. Prophets and the other 5 fold ministers are to be connected to the body of Christ. They're not just part of the Church; they have been given to the Church by God. They are meant to help perfect the saints and build up the community of believers.
"He gave some to be apostles; some, prophets; some, evangelists; and some, shepherds and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of serving, to the building up of the body of Christ."Â - Ephesians 4:11-12
Where Do Prophets Function?
Prophets are prophets to the church(body of Christ) first. However, according to the Prophets Handbook by Apostle Paula A. Price, PH.D. prophets will have a realm in which they are called to operate in:
Domestic
Ministerial
Financial
Political
Industrial
Business
Health
Societal
Special Group
Virtual Media (This one is my own) The Lord is raising up a nation of Virtual Prophets.
Why Knowing the Difference Matters:
So, here's the deal: The prophetic gift lets any believer receive divine messages, often through dreams, visions, or prophecies. But being in the office of the prophet? That's a whole different ball game. It's a recognized and designated role that involves leading, correcting, and guiding the Church. It's about deep commitment and serious accountability. Knowing the difference will allow clarity in the body of Christ as whole. Many who have prophet gifts have been labeled as prophets who are not. And there are many prophets who have been overlooked. Can you imagine being someone who with the gift of prophecy bearing the wait of an office God didn't wire you to carry. Whew! It happens both ways.
Why This Matters to You
Whether you're just starting to explore your spiritual gifts or think you might be called to something deeper, like the office of a prophet, understanding these distinctions can really guide your prophetic journey. It helps you set the right expectations and prepare for the responsibilities that each role entails. More importantly it helps everyone stay in their lane and take up their rightful places.
Understanding the difference between having a prophetic gift and being in the office of a prophet is crucial. Each has its significance and plays a unique role in our spiritual lives and community. By clarifying these roles, we enrich our spiritual journeys and strengthen the body of Christ.
Listen, if you are prophetic and you are looking for a place to get equipped in the prophetic and you seek community I invite you to connect with me over in Virtual Prophetic Mentorship Group. (VPMG) It's great for both those with prophetic gifts and those called to the office of the prophet. Yes both prophets and those with prophetic gifts tend to need next steps on what to do. VPMG can help you with that.
If this post has piqued your interest, or if you're curious to dive deeper, check out my YouTube channel. I have a playlist called "25 Signs That You Are a Prophet." It will help you with identifying some of the signs of a Prophet.
Blessings on Your Prophetic Journey, Prophet Andrea