“if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith…” – Romans 12:6
Spiritual gifts can feel mysterious, especially gifts like prophecy or tongues. But when Scripture speaks of prophecy, it isn’t describing someone predicting the future like a spiritual weather report. Prophecy is forthtelling—declaring what God has already spoken in His Word. Romans 12:6 says, “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith.” Paul gives two lists of gifts—one in Romans 12 and another in 1 Corinthians 12. In Romans, he encourages believers to use their gifts correctly. In Corinth, he corrects believers who were using their gifts incorrectly. The gifts may be listed simply, but the ways God blends them in each believer are endless. Like the basic ingredients in your pantry—salt, pepper, oil—God mixes the same foundational gifts in unique proportions to create something beautifully distinct in every life.
The first gift Paul mentions is prophecy. In the New Testament, prophēteia refers to communicating revealed truth—speaking God’s Word clearly, boldly, and faithfully. It’s not about guessing what God might do, but declaring what God has already said. It’s the person who opens Scripture in a prayer meeting and speaks truth that strengthens the room. It’s the believer who shares a timely verse that brings clarity, conviction, or comfort. Paul explains the purpose plainly: “He who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men” (1 Corinthians 14:3, NKJV). Prophecy is not mystical—it is ministry. It is speaking on behalf of God by speaking the Word of God.
This gift matters because the church needs voices anchored in Scripture—voices that build up, stir up, and lift up. Prophecy is not about spotlight or platform; it is about serving others with God’s truth. If God has given you the gift of prophecy, use it with humility and faith. Open His Word, listen to His voice, and speak what He has already spoken. Let your words strengthen the weary, encourage the discouraged, and comfort the hurting. And whether your gift is prophecy or something else, remember this: God has blended your gifts uniquely and intentionally. Use them boldly, faithfully, and for His glory.
“The prophet’s task is not to predict novelty but to proclaim what God has already spoken.” – J.I. Packer
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