Lecture on Prophets and their Characteristics

Introduction

• Discussion on the story of Jonah and his symbolic death and resurrection.
• Analogy to Jesus’s death, descent to hell, and resurrection.

Definition of a Prophet

• Prophetic Nature: A prophet inherently carries a prophetic nature in all actions and words.
• Readiness: Prophets are always ready to act on God’s instructions.
• Obedience: A key characteristic is obedience to God’s word.
• Purpose: Prophets have a purpose and guide others to find theirs.
• Humility: Humility is crucial; pride leads to downfall.
• Eloquence: Ability to communicate effectively, often attributed to divine inspiration.
• Truthfulness: Known for speaking the truth regardless of consequences.

Characteristics of Prophets

1. Prophetic Nature: Everything about them is aligned with prophecy.
2. Readiness: Always prepared to execute God’s instructions immediately.
3. Obedience: Follow God’s commands 24/7.
4. Purpose: Guide others to find life’s purpose through prophecy.
5. Humility: Essential to prevent pride, which can lead to downfall.
6. Eloquence: Ability to convey messages clearly and powerfully.
7. Truth-Telling: Prophets prioritize truth over pleasing others.
8. Non-Conformity: Not tied to worldly systems; they act independently of societal norms.
9. Non-Religious: Prophets are not bound by church traditions; they function outside typical religious structures.
10. Freestylists: Prophets receive and deliver prophetic messages spontaneously.
11. Lead to Jesus: Prophets point people towards Jesus, not themselves.
12. Oppose the Wind: They challenge conventional wisdom, often acting contrary to societal trends.
13. Sacrifice: Prophets are men and women of sacrifice, often building altars.
14. Prosperity Agents: They are believed to bring spiritual and material prosperity.
15. Intercessors: Engage heavily in prayer and spiritual warfare.
16. Hate Sin: Prophets have a strong aversion to sin, which is seen as missing God’s mark.

Story of Jonah

• Jonah’s experience symbolizes death and resurrection.
• Similar to Jesus’s death, descent to hell, and resurrection.

Types of Prophets

1. Prophets of the Wind: Deal with doctrines and spiritual warfare.
2. Prophets of the Ground: Command spiritual territories.
3. Prophets of Fire: Handle resistant spirits.
4. Prophets of Water: Known for delivering the word of God spontaneously.

Sin and Forgiveness

• Types of Sin: Against God, against others, and against oneself.
• Forgiveness: Requires self-forgiveness, forgiveness from others, and forgiveness from God.
• Consequences of Sin: Can block spiritual and physical healing.

Conclusion

• Understanding the role and characteristics of prophets can guide individuals in recognizing prophetic influence in life and scripture.
• Prophets play a crucial role in connecting individuals to spiritual truths and the divine purpose.