When dealing with the topic of prophecy, it’s important that we first make a clear distinction. In speaking on the Five-fold Office gifts, the apostle Paul states in Ephesians 4:11 that “the Prophet” is one of the governmental office gifts (see Ephesians 2:20). Among other responsibilities of the Prophet, prophecy is one of them. All prophets prophesy, but not all who prophesy are prophets.

There is a clear distinction between a person who walks in the office gift of the prophet, and a New Testament believer who prophesies. The good news is that every believer in Christ CAN prophesy.

Paul emphatically states in 1 Corinthians 14:1 and 14:5 respectively, “Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy” and “I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied.” We are to pursue the prophetic gift and even desire it.

A caveat is imperative here. The fact that we as New Testament believers can prophesy, does not make us prophets, nor can we walk in that mantle or authority. While a person walking in the office gift of the prophet can bring correction and direction when necessary, New Testament believers do not have that authority. The boundaries of New Testament prophecy for believers are given in 1 Corinthians 14:3, “But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men.” When we, as believers release prophetic words, they can not go outside of these boundaries. All prophetic words must only edify, exhort and bring comfort.