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Lesson 28: The Gift of Prophecy in the Last
Days
Noah played a most unique and critical role before the flood. He was a prophet who warned the people of catastrophic events soon to come upon the world and he made an ark of safety which literally provided a rescue from the coming flood. What about in the last days before the catastrophes of the end of the world? Will God send other prophets to warn and ready the people? In this lesson we will explore what the Bible has to say about prophets, and particularly about prophets in our era.
Q1. In the Scriptures we are given two important instructions regarding prophets and prophesying. What are the two instructions? Compare Matthew 24:24 with 1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Shining Star Series (Philippians 2:14-16)
Fatma had just gotten a new line of clothes to sell for spring. She was thrilled as she laid the new women’s fashions on her desk. She always prepared some special color arrangements for the window in the front of her store to attract customers for the season.
“That’s the last box,” said the cargo delivery man as he set the box of blouses down and asked for her signature.
Fatma corrected him, “No, that’s not the last box.” He looked around. Had he missed one? Then Fatma continued smiling, “That’s the last box -- until summer! See you again in a few months.”
Fatma pulled the blouses out. Bright blues, vivid oranges, and pistachio greens; it was a wonderful array of color for spring.
Fatma’s helper, Gülsün walked in and saw the beautiful clothes that Fatma had selected.
“Fatma, you’re a genius with women’s fashions. Every season, you know exactly what will sell, and what will satisfy your customers.”
“Thank you for your kind words. I guess it’s just a natural gift I have from God. Somehow, I see colors and shapes, and I just know how people will respond.”
The rest of the morning Gülsün and Fatma worked together rearranging the store to attractively feature the new merchandise. As the two worked they began to talk about different things. After nearly an hour the conversation drifted toward religion and finally Gülsün had a curious question for her long time friend and employer.
“Fatma, do you think the Mehti might be living right now?”
Fatma had a few thoughts on the subject but waited to give her answer, “Why do you ask? Do you think so?”
Gülsün said, “Well, I have a neighbor who is part of a group that believes so.”
Fatma smiled, “Well, Gülsün, you know I am a Turkish Christian now. Do you want my ideas on the subject?”
Gülsün hadn’t heard her boss call herself a Christian before. However, she greatly admired Fatma. During the last two years it had become so common for Fatma to bring to work spiritual insights from her small Bible study group that Gülsün had really come to trust and love hearing Fatma tell what she was learning.
“Well, Fatma, to tell the truth, you are about the only person I know who has more than an opinion, you have a well informed position on spiritual subjects from actually reading and studying the holy books.”
“Thank you!” Fatma said walking into the back room carrying a box, “If you keep giving me compliments like that, I am going to start suspecting you are aiming at getting a raise!” She came out of the back room carrying two glasses to make tea. “Let’s take a break and I’ll answer your question.” The two sat together and Fatma began by saying, “The Bible tells us many things about the future. In fact, it has accurately told about the rise and downfall of specific nations and governments. It has much to say about the end of time. As far as a coming Mehti, I hate to disappoint you, but no such figure fits into the Bible’s equation for the last days.”
Gülsün pondered, “Well, doesn’t it say that a Mehti must come before Jesus returns?”
“It does say that God would pour out His Spirit in abundance and that there would be an increase of prophets in the last days. It also warns that an anti-christ would come and false prophets would come.”
“Prophets!?” The thought of a prophet in modern times, caught Gülsün off guard.
“Yes, it says that both young men and young women would prophesy.”
Gülsün thought hard for a minute and then said, “Well, if there are true prophets and false prophets, how can you tell the difference?”
“If you really want to know, I will show you. The Bible gives several clear tests to know if a prophet is true or false. But once I tell you, then you are responsible to test the “prophets” yourself. In other words, any proclaimed prophet, no matter how loved, if he doesn’t pass the Scriptural tests he must be laid aside as a misleading light.”
Q2. Does the Bible teach that there will be true prophets in the last days of earth? Read Acts 2:16, 17.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Q3. Jesus placed the gift of “prophecy” in His church, along with four other gifts. What are they? Read Ephesians 4:7-11. Why did God places these gifts in the church? (See verse 12).
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Just as the gifts of preaching and teaching will continue until the end of the world, it is interesting to note that the gift of prophecy is foretold to exist until all things are consummated at the coming of Christ. Ephesians 4:13 says that all these gifts will remain active until the time of perfection comes.
Q4. In Bible times was the gift of prophecy only given to men? Read Acts 21:8, 9.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
No! In addition to many men who had the gift of prophecy, God also gave the gift to at least eight women: Anna (Luke 2:36-38); Miriam (Exodus 15:20); Deborah (Judges 4:4); Huldah (2 Kings 22:14) and the four daughters of Philip.
Q5. What is the work of the prophet? Read 2 Peter 1:21.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
A prophet is a spiritual man or woman whom God has specifically chosen to communicate a timely truth, warning, or knowledge to people.
Q6. Are prophets perfect or are they like us, inclined toward sin? Read Romans 5:17; Genesis. 9:20, 21; 1 John 1:8 and James 5:17.
A._____________________________________________________________________
Yes, Adam sinned, as well as Noah. It is recorded that Abraham sinned by telling a half-truth (Genesis 20:9). Aaron and Moses sinned (Numbers 20:12, 24) and the prophet David sinned by committing adultery, and his son Solomon sinned by worshipping idols. In fact, the Bible records that “all have sinned” (Romans 3:23). Despite this fact God finds a willing and obedient heart fertile soil for his Spirit, and uses ordinary men and women who are open to receive more light. The fact that all the prophets are sinners just like the rest of us is one of the reasons that Jesus is so unique. He had no sin. 1 Peter 1:22 says about Jesus, “He never sinned, and He never told a lie.” Because of this He is “more than a prophet.” He is the Messiah, our Redeemer. It is said of Jesus that He was Prophet, Priest and King. (Acts 2:22; Hebrews 4:14; Revelation 19:10, 16 and Philippians 2:10).
Though prophets aren’t sinless we do see prophets as particularly aspiring for a holy life in close connection to God. Prophets are unique from others in that they have received a special calling. This calling includes a “spiritual gift” of prophecy. This gift is manifested in different ways, and varying strengths in different prophets, as the Spirit sees fit. Other men and women have different gifts in lesser or greater degrees, as has been discussed in a previous lesson.
Q7. Why should we test prophets? Read 1 John 4:1 and 1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Jesus warned his disciples that “many false prophets would appear.” (Matthew 24:24).
The Bible gives many different “tests” of a prophet. Using these simple principles we are able to discern whether or not we can trust the words of someone as a prophet. A true prophet must pass all of the “tests”!
Q8. What is the first way we are to know if a prophet is true or false? Read Isaiah 8:20.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Note: The words of a true prophet will harmonize with the law of God and the testimony of all previous prophets of God. One who claims to be a prophet may fulfill every other test, but if his instruction is contrary to the Bible and the testimonies, he proves himself to be a false prophet.
Q9. What is the second test of a prophet? Read Matthew 7:15-20.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Jesus uses “fruits” to mean the “results” or “outcome” of the prophet’s life and work. While no prophet except Jesus is perfect, we will see in the prophet’s life a conformance to the teachings of God’s word. We are to look at the prophet’s life and followers and ask, “Is there love, joy peace, patience, kindness, and self-control?” The teaching of a true prophet will be in harmony with all previous revelation.
Q10. What is a third test of a prophet? Read Deuteronomy 13:1-4.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Just because someone is able to perform miracles or foretell the future doesn’t mean they are a true prophet. Even a false prophet may have occasional success at foretelling the future because Satan has shown them some event he will bring about. A perfect example is Nostradamus who became famous in spite of an estimated only 7% of his cryptical riddles having come true. For those predictions he has become famous but God says stay away from these kinds of prophets. They are false. What is the test given in these verses? If they lead you to break one of God’s commandments then they are a false prophet.
Q11. What is a fourth test of a prophet? Read Deuteronomy 18:21-22.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Though some prophets, like John the Baptist, have a work to call people to repentance, other prophets had a unique ability to see and describe future events as God revealed them. Examples of the latter are Joseph and Daniel. If a prophet had visions relating to future things, to pass the “test” of a true prophet, their forward looking prophecies must be 100% accurate. If they prove to be even partially inaccurate you can know them to be a “false prophet.”
Q12. Does every so-called prophecy originate either from Satan or God? Read Jeremiah 23:16.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Satan can inspire false prophecy but a false prophet can give prophecies out of their own mind as well. This may be shown if a prophet changes their prophecies to fit their own needs, or place themselves in a favorable way to fit their own circumstances. A true prophet will prophecy the words of God, even if it causes themselves personal injury, harm or martyrdom.
Q13. What is a fifth test of a prophet? Read 1 John 4:2-3.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
A true prophet will confess the pre-existence of Jesus before coming to this world to live in human flesh. The Messiah is the union of divinity and humanity (John 1:1-3, 14; 1 Corinthians 12:3). Anyone denying this is not of God.
Q14. God speaks to true prophets in many different ways. What are these ways? Read Numbers 12:6-8.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
In the Scriptures we see some of the physical evidences of a true prophet in vision. They may initially lose physical strength (Daniel 10:8), may have no breath in the body (Daniel 10:17), may later receive supernatural strength (Daniel 10:18, 19), may not be aware of earthly surroundings (Daniel 10:5-8; 2 Corinthians 12:2-4) and have their eyes open during the vision (Numbers 24:4).
In Numbers 11:11-17, 25-29, we see that there were at least 70 who prophesied during the time of Moses, but none did the work or had the significant role that Moses played. It seems that the influence of a prophet can vary depending on the unique calling and gifting of God. Because the prophet Joel says that prophets would arise in the last day[1], we may ask the question, “Have any significant prophets arisen in our era?” We saw in our last lesson that the “testimony of Jesus” was one of the identifying signs of the remnant church (Revelation 12:17). We also saw that the “testimony of Jesus” is the “spirit of prophecy.” But we didn’t discuss the fulfillment of that prediction. Has the “spirit of prophecy” been found in the Seventh-day Adventist church according to the Bible?
Many have discovered the writings of a humble woman of the 19th century named Ellen G. White to be of an especially noble quality. They have diligently compared her writings to those of Scripture and judged her to be a true messenger of God. Will she be the last? According to the Scriptures, the gift of prophecy will flourish in the end. However, she seems to be a “significant” messenger. So for the remainder of this lesson let's focus on the life and writings of Ellen G. White. It is likely you too will find her writings particularly helpful for chartering your course in these last days and draw you nearer to God’s heart.
Ellen G. White was a woman who had incredible spiritual insight as evidenced from her writings. Ellen G. White had her first vision at the age of 17 in the year 1844, the time when the 2300 year prophecy of Daniel 8:14 met its fulfillment.
Her writings covered a broad list of subjects from advice to parents to advanced subjects of health. She also wrote much about Christian lifestyle, a book on education and key insights to last day events. She promoted the establishment of schools and medical centers. During her lifetime she wrote more than 5,000 periodical articles and 40 books. She is perhaps the most translated female non-fiction author in the history of literature, as well as the most translated American non-fiction author of either gender.
Until her death at age 87 in 1915, this messenger of God did the work and bore the fruits of genuineness. Throughout her life she saw her primary aim to uplift Scripture and point people toward a deeper relationship with Christ. Her life and writings built up the church, strengthened the ministry, glorified Christ, and led to the “perfecting of the saints”.
Shining Stars Series (Philippians 2:14-16)
The group gathered at Fatma’s house at night with some excitement. Each had volunteered to undertake a homework assignment that had lasted two months. They had decided that the best way to evaluate Ellen White was to read a large sampling of her writings for themselves. They had in their possession three books but not enough copies for everyone, so they had to read and trade and share the books. The first one was called “Patriarchs and Prophets,” the second “The Desire of Ages,” and the third “The Great Controversy.”
Fatma began, “Well, thank you all for doing your ‘homework’. I also appreciate that you were good about sharing the books that you had. When I visited Sevim, if I had thought about it, I would have asked for some more copies. Did everybody succeed at making it through at least half of the book you were assigned?”
Everyone nodded. Mert said, “I figured everyone would read the first half of the book, and no one would get to the second half, so I started in the middle and read to the end.”
“Bravo. That was clever thinking,” Mehmet said affirmingly.
Mert, “I also figured, for putting Ellen White to the test, that if there was going to be “false” things that they would likely be more toward the end of a book than at the beginning, as the end is where conclusions are drawn.”
Filiz nodded, “That is pretty smart! So what was your conclusion?”
Mert replied, “I read the second half of the “The Great Controversy.” It was really incredible. Mehmet Ağabey and I shared copies. Frankly it blew my mind. I loved it. What about you Yusuf?”
“I read “Patriarchs and Prophets.” It basically is a repeat of the the stories of the books of Genesis and Exodus in more detail. Ellen White gives explanation of the Bible events and helps apply each story’s principle to larger life principles.”
Fatma’s mother, Türkan, asked, “Did it pass the test?”
“It certainly agreed with the Bible, and directed my thoughts to a deeper appreciation of Jesus. I didn’t see any future predictions there, so I can’t judge on that one.”
Mehmet cleared his throat then said, “When we decided a month ago to put this Ellen White to the test I was a bit dubious how things would turn out. My biggest concern was that we would take a strong left turn away from Scripture. However, I found just the opposite to be true. Again and again I found myself deeper in the Bible and having a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Bible.”
“Those are my feelings as well,” replied Türkan, “I read through about 3/4 of “The Desire of Ages.” I have learned so much, I wish I had read this years ago.”
Fatma nodded, “My mother and I read together. Often I would read to her out loud. After the first chapter, I quit thinking about who wrote it and just thought about Jesus. She has written in a way that really makes Jesus’ teaching and ministry so clear. Mehmet, just like you, I feel more connected to Scripture through this assignment. It’s opened my eyes to things I had only glossed over.”
Ekrem said abruptly, “Well, I am not sure I want to accept that a woman could have a prophetic role. There is a big difference between a nice author and a prophet. A prophet is something quite a bit more substantive. I think we should see what the Internet has to say. There are probably a lot of negatives and let’s just let the experts tell us.”
Mehmet said, “Look, the Bible says, ‘test the prophets.’ It doesn’t say, ‘Read what someone else has tested and base your opinions on their findings.’ The Internet is great for many things, but I have found doing searches on religious topics that the Internet has got too many biased opinions. In other words you have websites of good people, crazy people, and bitter, angry people twisting history and ideas to fit their own prejudices. I think what the Bible is asking us is to sift spiritual matters through the spiritual sifter of Scripture.”
Fatma, “Thank you Mehmet, for those thoughts. Ekrem, what did you find in your reading?”
Ekrem’s face flushed. Rubbing his nose he said, “Well, frankly, I have been too busy to read anything. If there is a prophet in these days, surely I would have heard of it before now and there would be millions who would be speaking about him.”
His wife added a bit nervously, “Ekrem and I talked about it, and we felt uneasy being the judge of a prophet. How can we know with certainty what is right?”
Fatma calmly patted her Bible, “Well, I think we all read the Scriptures together. There are clear tests we are to use.”
Afife jumped into the conversation, “I can understand where Ekrem is coming from. At first I was thinking, ‘No. I can’t adopt the idea that some relatively modern person is a prophet, let alone a foreigner, and a woman.’ So it was with hesitancy that I began reading the book “Patriarchs and Prophets.” However, . . , ” she paused while picking up the book and opening to its first page,
“These first paragraphs really spoke to my heart:
“God is love." His nature, His law, is love. It ever has been; it ever will be. "The high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity," whose "ways are everlasting," changeth not. With Him "is no variableness, neither shadow of turning."
Every manifestation of creative power is an expression of infinite love. The sovereignty of God involves fullness of blessing to all created beings. The psalmist says:
"Strong is Thy hand, and high is Thy right hand.
Righteousness and judgment are the foundation of Thy throne:
Mercy and truth go before Thy face.
Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound:
They walk, O Lord, in the light of Thy countenance.
In Thy name do they rejoice all the day:
And in Thy righteousness are they exalted.
For Thou art the glory of their strength: . . .
For our shield belongeth unto Jehovah,
And our king to the Holy One." Psalm 89:13-18,
The history of the great conflict between good and evil, from the time it first began in heaven to the final overthrow of rebellion and the total eradication of sin, is also a demonstration of God's unchanging love.”
Mehmet’s eyes grew with excitement. “This is most unique, because those are the exact words, that my book, “The Great Controversy”, ends with: God is love.” He thumbed through the pages saying, “After the amazing chapter on the coming of Christ, the destruction of the wicked by fire, and the earth made new, is this final paragraph.” The retired teacher held the book up so all could see it was the last page and then he read aloud:
“The great controversy is ended. Sin and sinners are no more. The entire universe is clean. One pulse of harmony and gladness beats through the vast creation. From Him who created all, flow life and light and gladness, throughout the realms of illimitable space. From the minutest atom to the greatest world, all things, animate and inanimate, in their unshadowed beauty and perfect joy, declare that God is love.”
More was said and all went home a little richer and wiser. But Ekrem and Feliz felt somewhat awkwardly out of step with the enthusiasm of the rest of the group.
Ellen White received her first vision as an unmarried girl of 17. Over her lifetime she received more than two thousand visions and dreams. As was true for the biblical prophets, certain supernatural physical phenomena accompanied Ellen White during her visions. Like the prophet Daniel, she did not breathe while in vision and often initially lost physical strength (Daniel 10:8, 17). Some of her visions lasted as long as four hours, but she did not breathe the entire time. Doctors who examined her while she was in vision attested to this fact.
At other times, she was also given supernatural strength (Daniel 10:18, 19). Though Ellen weighed only 95 pounds, witnesses saw her hold an eight kilo family Bible in her outstretched hand for 30 minutes while in vision. These and other physical phenomena indicate that there is something supernatural about the experience of a prophet. However, they do not tell us whether the prophet is from God or from Satan. When faced with a supernatural claim to the prophetic gift, Christians must test the claim by the Bible to see if it is true.
Applying the Four Biblical Tests
Let's look together to see whether or not the life and ministry of Ellen White meet the four biblical tests of a true prophet.
First Test -- Harmony with Scriptures
Read any one of Ellen White's books, and you will discover that it consistently leads you to the Bible and is in total agreement with Scripture. However, she did not regard her writings as an addition to Scripture. Their purpose was to call the attention of God's people to the Bible and bring them back to the Bible as the only source of truth. Notice Ellen White's emphatic declaration that the Bible is the only rule of faith: "In our time there is a wide departure from their doctrines and precepts, and there is need of a return to the great Protestant principle. The Bible, and the Bible only, as the rule of faith and duty."
Ellen White's writings may be described as a lesser light to lead to the greater light, the Bible. They act as an inspired commentary on Scripture, but the Bible is still the supreme authority.
Second Test -- A Godly Life
The secular press, commenting on Ellen White when she died in 1915, said: "The life of Mrs. White is an example worthy of emulation by all. She was a humble, devout disciple of Christ, and ever went about doing good. ... She was honored and respected by all who appreciate noble womanhood consecrated to unselfish labor for the uplifting and betterment of mankind. Her death marks the calling of another noted leader of religious thought and one whose almost ninety years were full to overflowing with good deeds, kind words, and earnest prayers for all mankind."[2]
Third Test -- In Harmony with the Ten Commandments
You may search the estimated 25 million words of her writings and you will see that she always upholds the keeping of the Ten Commandments, including the fourth commandment which is the distinctive mark of God’s people in the last days.
Fourth Test -- Accurate Prophecies
Ellen White lived during a time when doctors advocated smoking to benefit the lungs. Varying medical opinions existed, but no real scientific proof was available. Nutrition was an unknown science. Yet in this setting, Ellen White wrote volumes in the field of health and nutrition. Dr. Clive McCay, former professor of nutrition at Cornell University, confirmed the accuracy of Ellen White's writings in the field of nutrition: "In spite of the fact that the works of Mrs. White were written long before the advent of modern scientific nutrition, no better overall guide is available today."[3]
Did Ellen White make predictions about the future that came true? Yes, she did. In 1902 she wrote, “Well-equipped tent meetings should be held in the large cities, such as San Francisco; for not long hence these cities will suffer under the judgments of God. San Francisco and Oakland are becoming as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the Lord will visit them in wrath.” Manuscript 114, 1902.
Many Adventists heeded the warning and moved from those cities. On April 18, 1906 San Francisco was largely destroyed by an earthquake and subsequent fires. Oakland and other cities also suffered.
In 1908 Ellen White wrote, “It is Satan's purpose to attract men and women to the cities, and to gain his object he invents every kind of novelty and amusement, every kind of excitement. And the cities of the earth today are becoming as were the cities before the Flood.” Selected Messages book 2, page 355.
When Ellen White was alive, only ten cities in the world had populations in excess of one million people. More than 60 did in 1962.
According to the United Nations Population Fund website, “The world is undergoing the largest wave of urban growth in history. In 2008, for the first time in history, more than half of the world’s population will be living in towns and cities. By 2030 this number will swell to almost 5 billion, with urban growth concentrated in Africa and Asia. While mega-cities have captured much public attention, most of the new growth will occur in smaller towns and cities, which have fewer resources to respond to the magnitude of the change.”[4]
She wrote in the book The Great Controversy, in 1911, “Through the two great errors, the immortality of the soul and Sunday sacredness, Satan will bring the people under his deceptions. While the former lays the foundation of spiritualism, the latter creates a bond of sympathy with Rome. The Protestants of the United States will be foremost in stretching their hands across the gulf to grasp the hand of spiritualism; they will reach over the abyss to clasp hands with the Roman power; and under the influence of this threefold union, this country will follow in the steps of Rome in trampling on the rights of conscience.” Page 588.
The Vatican was not formed until 1929. Who could have imagined in 1911 that Protestant churches would join an ecumenical movement and renew ties with the Roman Catholic Church? Yet all this has happened in the last thirty years.
There are many other predictions that could be cited, but because of space limitations, only one more will be given. In 1901 Ellen White wrote:
On one occasion, when in New York City, I was in the night season called upon to behold buildings rising story after story toward heaven. These buildings were warranted to be fireproof, and they were erected to glorify the owners and builders. Higher and still higher these buildings rose, and in them the most costly material was used. . . .
The scene that next passed before me was an alarm of fire. Men looked at the lofty and supposedly fire-proof buildings and said: "They are perfectly safe." But these buildings were consumed as if made of pitch. The fire engines could do nothing to stay the destruction. The firemen were unable to operate the engines.--Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, pp. 12, 13
Was Ellen White’s vision of 1901 fulfilled on September 11, 2001? Or could it be that the World Trade Center was just a foretaste of what will be the ultimate fulfillment of Ellen White's predictions?
Fifth Test -- Teach the Truth About Jesus
Ellen White's books such as The Desire of Ages, Christ's Object Lessons, Steps to Christ, and Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing all testify to her fulfillment of this test. She says nothing of herself in these volumes, but constantly points others to Jesus as pre-existent before coming to this world. In the book The Desire of Ages on page 19, she wrote:
"His name shall be called Immanuel, . . . God with us." "The light of the knowledge of the glory of God" is seen "in the face of Jesus Christ." From the days of eternity the Lord Jesus Christ was one with the Father; He was "the image of God," the image of His greatness and majesty, "the outshining of His glory." It was to manifest this glory that He came to our world. To this sin-darkened earth He came to reveal the light of God's love- to be "God with us." Therefore it was prophesied of Him, "His name shall be called Immanuel."
"By coming to dwell with us, Jesus was to reveal God both to men and to angels. He was the Word of God- God's thought made audible."
The Bible predicted that in the last days the prophetic gift would appear in the remnant church. Evidence declares that Ellen White met every Bible specification for a true prophet. We would encourage you to obtain and read some of her writings and follow the biblical injunction to "despise not prophesying. Prove all things hold fast that which is good." 1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21.
Call to commitment through prayer.
[1] Joel 2:28, 29.
[2] Star St. Helena, California, July 23, 1915.
[3] Clive M. McCay, quoted in Review and Herald, February 26, 1969.
[4] http://www.unfpa.org/pds/urbanization.htm
Days
Noah played a most unique and critical role before the flood. He was a prophet who warned the people of catastrophic events soon to come upon the world and he made an ark of safety which literally provided a rescue from the coming flood. What about in the last days before the catastrophes of the end of the world? Will God send other prophets to warn and ready the people? In this lesson we will explore what the Bible has to say about prophets, and particularly about prophets in our era.
Q1. In the Scriptures we are given two important instructions regarding prophets and prophesying. What are the two instructions? Compare Matthew 24:24 with 1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Shining Star Series (Philippians 2:14-16)
Fatma had just gotten a new line of clothes to sell for spring. She was thrilled as she laid the new women’s fashions on her desk. She always prepared some special color arrangements for the window in the front of her store to attract customers for the season.
“That’s the last box,” said the cargo delivery man as he set the box of blouses down and asked for her signature.
Fatma corrected him, “No, that’s not the last box.” He looked around. Had he missed one? Then Fatma continued smiling, “That’s the last box -- until summer! See you again in a few months.”
Fatma pulled the blouses out. Bright blues, vivid oranges, and pistachio greens; it was a wonderful array of color for spring.
Fatma’s helper, Gülsün walked in and saw the beautiful clothes that Fatma had selected.
“Fatma, you’re a genius with women’s fashions. Every season, you know exactly what will sell, and what will satisfy your customers.”
“Thank you for your kind words. I guess it’s just a natural gift I have from God. Somehow, I see colors and shapes, and I just know how people will respond.”
The rest of the morning Gülsün and Fatma worked together rearranging the store to attractively feature the new merchandise. As the two worked they began to talk about different things. After nearly an hour the conversation drifted toward religion and finally Gülsün had a curious question for her long time friend and employer.
“Fatma, do you think the Mehti might be living right now?”
Fatma had a few thoughts on the subject but waited to give her answer, “Why do you ask? Do you think so?”
Gülsün said, “Well, I have a neighbor who is part of a group that believes so.”
Fatma smiled, “Well, Gülsün, you know I am a Turkish Christian now. Do you want my ideas on the subject?”
Gülsün hadn’t heard her boss call herself a Christian before. However, she greatly admired Fatma. During the last two years it had become so common for Fatma to bring to work spiritual insights from her small Bible study group that Gülsün had really come to trust and love hearing Fatma tell what she was learning.
“Well, Fatma, to tell the truth, you are about the only person I know who has more than an opinion, you have a well informed position on spiritual subjects from actually reading and studying the holy books.”
“Thank you!” Fatma said walking into the back room carrying a box, “If you keep giving me compliments like that, I am going to start suspecting you are aiming at getting a raise!” She came out of the back room carrying two glasses to make tea. “Let’s take a break and I’ll answer your question.” The two sat together and Fatma began by saying, “The Bible tells us many things about the future. In fact, it has accurately told about the rise and downfall of specific nations and governments. It has much to say about the end of time. As far as a coming Mehti, I hate to disappoint you, but no such figure fits into the Bible’s equation for the last days.”
Gülsün pondered, “Well, doesn’t it say that a Mehti must come before Jesus returns?”
“It does say that God would pour out His Spirit in abundance and that there would be an increase of prophets in the last days. It also warns that an anti-christ would come and false prophets would come.”
“Prophets!?” The thought of a prophet in modern times, caught Gülsün off guard.
“Yes, it says that both young men and young women would prophesy.”
Gülsün thought hard for a minute and then said, “Well, if there are true prophets and false prophets, how can you tell the difference?”
“If you really want to know, I will show you. The Bible gives several clear tests to know if a prophet is true or false. But once I tell you, then you are responsible to test the “prophets” yourself. In other words, any proclaimed prophet, no matter how loved, if he doesn’t pass the Scriptural tests he must be laid aside as a misleading light.”
Q2. Does the Bible teach that there will be true prophets in the last days of earth? Read Acts 2:16, 17.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Q3. Jesus placed the gift of “prophecy” in His church, along with four other gifts. What are they? Read Ephesians 4:7-11. Why did God places these gifts in the church? (See verse 12).
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Just as the gifts of preaching and teaching will continue until the end of the world, it is interesting to note that the gift of prophecy is foretold to exist until all things are consummated at the coming of Christ. Ephesians 4:13 says that all these gifts will remain active until the time of perfection comes.
Q4. In Bible times was the gift of prophecy only given to men? Read Acts 21:8, 9.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
No! In addition to many men who had the gift of prophecy, God also gave the gift to at least eight women: Anna (Luke 2:36-38); Miriam (Exodus 15:20); Deborah (Judges 4:4); Huldah (2 Kings 22:14) and the four daughters of Philip.
Q5. What is the work of the prophet? Read 2 Peter 1:21.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
A prophet is a spiritual man or woman whom God has specifically chosen to communicate a timely truth, warning, or knowledge to people.
Q6. Are prophets perfect or are they like us, inclined toward sin? Read Romans 5:17; Genesis. 9:20, 21; 1 John 1:8 and James 5:17.
A._____________________________________________________________________
Yes, Adam sinned, as well as Noah. It is recorded that Abraham sinned by telling a half-truth (Genesis 20:9). Aaron and Moses sinned (Numbers 20:12, 24) and the prophet David sinned by committing adultery, and his son Solomon sinned by worshipping idols. In fact, the Bible records that “all have sinned” (Romans 3:23). Despite this fact God finds a willing and obedient heart fertile soil for his Spirit, and uses ordinary men and women who are open to receive more light. The fact that all the prophets are sinners just like the rest of us is one of the reasons that Jesus is so unique. He had no sin. 1 Peter 1:22 says about Jesus, “He never sinned, and He never told a lie.” Because of this He is “more than a prophet.” He is the Messiah, our Redeemer. It is said of Jesus that He was Prophet, Priest and King. (Acts 2:22; Hebrews 4:14; Revelation 19:10, 16 and Philippians 2:10).
Though prophets aren’t sinless we do see prophets as particularly aspiring for a holy life in close connection to God. Prophets are unique from others in that they have received a special calling. This calling includes a “spiritual gift” of prophecy. This gift is manifested in different ways, and varying strengths in different prophets, as the Spirit sees fit. Other men and women have different gifts in lesser or greater degrees, as has been discussed in a previous lesson.
Q7. Why should we test prophets? Read 1 John 4:1 and 1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Jesus warned his disciples that “many false prophets would appear.” (Matthew 24:24).
The Bible gives many different “tests” of a prophet. Using these simple principles we are able to discern whether or not we can trust the words of someone as a prophet. A true prophet must pass all of the “tests”!
Q8. What is the first way we are to know if a prophet is true or false? Read Isaiah 8:20.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Note: The words of a true prophet will harmonize with the law of God and the testimony of all previous prophets of God. One who claims to be a prophet may fulfill every other test, but if his instruction is contrary to the Bible and the testimonies, he proves himself to be a false prophet.
Q9. What is the second test of a prophet? Read Matthew 7:15-20.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Jesus uses “fruits” to mean the “results” or “outcome” of the prophet’s life and work. While no prophet except Jesus is perfect, we will see in the prophet’s life a conformance to the teachings of God’s word. We are to look at the prophet’s life and followers and ask, “Is there love, joy peace, patience, kindness, and self-control?” The teaching of a true prophet will be in harmony with all previous revelation.
Q10. What is a third test of a prophet? Read Deuteronomy 13:1-4.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Just because someone is able to perform miracles or foretell the future doesn’t mean they are a true prophet. Even a false prophet may have occasional success at foretelling the future because Satan has shown them some event he will bring about. A perfect example is Nostradamus who became famous in spite of an estimated only 7% of his cryptical riddles having come true. For those predictions he has become famous but God says stay away from these kinds of prophets. They are false. What is the test given in these verses? If they lead you to break one of God’s commandments then they are a false prophet.
Q11. What is a fourth test of a prophet? Read Deuteronomy 18:21-22.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Though some prophets, like John the Baptist, have a work to call people to repentance, other prophets had a unique ability to see and describe future events as God revealed them. Examples of the latter are Joseph and Daniel. If a prophet had visions relating to future things, to pass the “test” of a true prophet, their forward looking prophecies must be 100% accurate. If they prove to be even partially inaccurate you can know them to be a “false prophet.”
Q12. Does every so-called prophecy originate either from Satan or God? Read Jeremiah 23:16.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
Satan can inspire false prophecy but a false prophet can give prophecies out of their own mind as well. This may be shown if a prophet changes their prophecies to fit their own needs, or place themselves in a favorable way to fit their own circumstances. A true prophet will prophecy the words of God, even if it causes themselves personal injury, harm or martyrdom.
Q13. What is a fifth test of a prophet? Read 1 John 4:2-3.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
A true prophet will confess the pre-existence of Jesus before coming to this world to live in human flesh. The Messiah is the union of divinity and humanity (John 1:1-3, 14; 1 Corinthians 12:3). Anyone denying this is not of God.
Q14. God speaks to true prophets in many different ways. What are these ways? Read Numbers 12:6-8.
A. ___________________________________________________________________________
In the Scriptures we see some of the physical evidences of a true prophet in vision. They may initially lose physical strength (Daniel 10:8), may have no breath in the body (Daniel 10:17), may later receive supernatural strength (Daniel 10:18, 19), may not be aware of earthly surroundings (Daniel 10:5-8; 2 Corinthians 12:2-4) and have their eyes open during the vision (Numbers 24:4).
In Numbers 11:11-17, 25-29, we see that there were at least 70 who prophesied during the time of Moses, but none did the work or had the significant role that Moses played. It seems that the influence of a prophet can vary depending on the unique calling and gifting of God. Because the prophet Joel says that prophets would arise in the last day[1], we may ask the question, “Have any significant prophets arisen in our era?” We saw in our last lesson that the “testimony of Jesus” was one of the identifying signs of the remnant church (Revelation 12:17). We also saw that the “testimony of Jesus” is the “spirit of prophecy.” But we didn’t discuss the fulfillment of that prediction. Has the “spirit of prophecy” been found in the Seventh-day Adventist church according to the Bible?
Many have discovered the writings of a humble woman of the 19th century named Ellen G. White to be of an especially noble quality. They have diligently compared her writings to those of Scripture and judged her to be a true messenger of God. Will she be the last? According to the Scriptures, the gift of prophecy will flourish in the end. However, she seems to be a “significant” messenger. So for the remainder of this lesson let's focus on the life and writings of Ellen G. White. It is likely you too will find her writings particularly helpful for chartering your course in these last days and draw you nearer to God’s heart.
Ellen G. White was a woman who had incredible spiritual insight as evidenced from her writings. Ellen G. White had her first vision at the age of 17 in the year 1844, the time when the 2300 year prophecy of Daniel 8:14 met its fulfillment.
Her writings covered a broad list of subjects from advice to parents to advanced subjects of health. She also wrote much about Christian lifestyle, a book on education and key insights to last day events. She promoted the establishment of schools and medical centers. During her lifetime she wrote more than 5,000 periodical articles and 40 books. She is perhaps the most translated female non-fiction author in the history of literature, as well as the most translated American non-fiction author of either gender.
Until her death at age 87 in 1915, this messenger of God did the work and bore the fruits of genuineness. Throughout her life she saw her primary aim to uplift Scripture and point people toward a deeper relationship with Christ. Her life and writings built up the church, strengthened the ministry, glorified Christ, and led to the “perfecting of the saints”.
Shining Stars Series (Philippians 2:14-16)
The group gathered at Fatma’s house at night with some excitement. Each had volunteered to undertake a homework assignment that had lasted two months. They had decided that the best way to evaluate Ellen White was to read a large sampling of her writings for themselves. They had in their possession three books but not enough copies for everyone, so they had to read and trade and share the books. The first one was called “Patriarchs and Prophets,” the second “The Desire of Ages,” and the third “The Great Controversy.”
Fatma began, “Well, thank you all for doing your ‘homework’. I also appreciate that you were good about sharing the books that you had. When I visited Sevim, if I had thought about it, I would have asked for some more copies. Did everybody succeed at making it through at least half of the book you were assigned?”
Everyone nodded. Mert said, “I figured everyone would read the first half of the book, and no one would get to the second half, so I started in the middle and read to the end.”
“Bravo. That was clever thinking,” Mehmet said affirmingly.
Mert, “I also figured, for putting Ellen White to the test, that if there was going to be “false” things that they would likely be more toward the end of a book than at the beginning, as the end is where conclusions are drawn.”
Filiz nodded, “That is pretty smart! So what was your conclusion?”
Mert replied, “I read the second half of the “The Great Controversy.” It was really incredible. Mehmet Ağabey and I shared copies. Frankly it blew my mind. I loved it. What about you Yusuf?”
“I read “Patriarchs and Prophets.” It basically is a repeat of the the stories of the books of Genesis and Exodus in more detail. Ellen White gives explanation of the Bible events and helps apply each story’s principle to larger life principles.”
Fatma’s mother, Türkan, asked, “Did it pass the test?”
“It certainly agreed with the Bible, and directed my thoughts to a deeper appreciation of Jesus. I didn’t see any future predictions there, so I can’t judge on that one.”
Mehmet cleared his throat then said, “When we decided a month ago to put this Ellen White to the test I was a bit dubious how things would turn out. My biggest concern was that we would take a strong left turn away from Scripture. However, I found just the opposite to be true. Again and again I found myself deeper in the Bible and having a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Bible.”
“Those are my feelings as well,” replied Türkan, “I read through about 3/4 of “The Desire of Ages.” I have learned so much, I wish I had read this years ago.”
Fatma nodded, “My mother and I read together. Often I would read to her out loud. After the first chapter, I quit thinking about who wrote it and just thought about Jesus. She has written in a way that really makes Jesus’ teaching and ministry so clear. Mehmet, just like you, I feel more connected to Scripture through this assignment. It’s opened my eyes to things I had only glossed over.”
Ekrem said abruptly, “Well, I am not sure I want to accept that a woman could have a prophetic role. There is a big difference between a nice author and a prophet. A prophet is something quite a bit more substantive. I think we should see what the Internet has to say. There are probably a lot of negatives and let’s just let the experts tell us.”
Mehmet said, “Look, the Bible says, ‘test the prophets.’ It doesn’t say, ‘Read what someone else has tested and base your opinions on their findings.’ The Internet is great for many things, but I have found doing searches on religious topics that the Internet has got too many biased opinions. In other words you have websites of good people, crazy people, and bitter, angry people twisting history and ideas to fit their own prejudices. I think what the Bible is asking us is to sift spiritual matters through the spiritual sifter of Scripture.”
Fatma, “Thank you Mehmet, for those thoughts. Ekrem, what did you find in your reading?”
Ekrem’s face flushed. Rubbing his nose he said, “Well, frankly, I have been too busy to read anything. If there is a prophet in these days, surely I would have heard of it before now and there would be millions who would be speaking about him.”
His wife added a bit nervously, “Ekrem and I talked about it, and we felt uneasy being the judge of a prophet. How can we know with certainty what is right?”
Fatma calmly patted her Bible, “Well, I think we all read the Scriptures together. There are clear tests we are to use.”
Afife jumped into the conversation, “I can understand where Ekrem is coming from. At first I was thinking, ‘No. I can’t adopt the idea that some relatively modern person is a prophet, let alone a foreigner, and a woman.’ So it was with hesitancy that I began reading the book “Patriarchs and Prophets.” However, . . , ” she paused while picking up the book and opening to its first page,
“These first paragraphs really spoke to my heart:
“God is love." His nature, His law, is love. It ever has been; it ever will be. "The high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity," whose "ways are everlasting," changeth not. With Him "is no variableness, neither shadow of turning."
Every manifestation of creative power is an expression of infinite love. The sovereignty of God involves fullness of blessing to all created beings. The psalmist says:
"Strong is Thy hand, and high is Thy right hand.
Righteousness and judgment are the foundation of Thy throne:
Mercy and truth go before Thy face.
Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound:
They walk, O Lord, in the light of Thy countenance.
In Thy name do they rejoice all the day:
And in Thy righteousness are they exalted.
For Thou art the glory of their strength: . . .
For our shield belongeth unto Jehovah,
And our king to the Holy One." Psalm 89:13-18,
The history of the great conflict between good and evil, from the time it first began in heaven to the final overthrow of rebellion and the total eradication of sin, is also a demonstration of God's unchanging love.”
Mehmet’s eyes grew with excitement. “This is most unique, because those are the exact words, that my book, “The Great Controversy”, ends with: God is love.” He thumbed through the pages saying, “After the amazing chapter on the coming of Christ, the destruction of the wicked by fire, and the earth made new, is this final paragraph.” The retired teacher held the book up so all could see it was the last page and then he read aloud:
“The great controversy is ended. Sin and sinners are no more. The entire universe is clean. One pulse of harmony and gladness beats through the vast creation. From Him who created all, flow life and light and gladness, throughout the realms of illimitable space. From the minutest atom to the greatest world, all things, animate and inanimate, in their unshadowed beauty and perfect joy, declare that God is love.”
More was said and all went home a little richer and wiser. But Ekrem and Feliz felt somewhat awkwardly out of step with the enthusiasm of the rest of the group.
Ellen White received her first vision as an unmarried girl of 17. Over her lifetime she received more than two thousand visions and dreams. As was true for the biblical prophets, certain supernatural physical phenomena accompanied Ellen White during her visions. Like the prophet Daniel, she did not breathe while in vision and often initially lost physical strength (Daniel 10:8, 17). Some of her visions lasted as long as four hours, but she did not breathe the entire time. Doctors who examined her while she was in vision attested to this fact.
At other times, she was also given supernatural strength (Daniel 10:18, 19). Though Ellen weighed only 95 pounds, witnesses saw her hold an eight kilo family Bible in her outstretched hand for 30 minutes while in vision. These and other physical phenomena indicate that there is something supernatural about the experience of a prophet. However, they do not tell us whether the prophet is from God or from Satan. When faced with a supernatural claim to the prophetic gift, Christians must test the claim by the Bible to see if it is true.
Applying the Four Biblical Tests
Let's look together to see whether or not the life and ministry of Ellen White meet the four biblical tests of a true prophet.
First Test -- Harmony with Scriptures
Read any one of Ellen White's books, and you will discover that it consistently leads you to the Bible and is in total agreement with Scripture. However, she did not regard her writings as an addition to Scripture. Their purpose was to call the attention of God's people to the Bible and bring them back to the Bible as the only source of truth. Notice Ellen White's emphatic declaration that the Bible is the only rule of faith: "In our time there is a wide departure from their doctrines and precepts, and there is need of a return to the great Protestant principle. The Bible, and the Bible only, as the rule of faith and duty."
Ellen White's writings may be described as a lesser light to lead to the greater light, the Bible. They act as an inspired commentary on Scripture, but the Bible is still the supreme authority.
Second Test -- A Godly Life
The secular press, commenting on Ellen White when she died in 1915, said: "The life of Mrs. White is an example worthy of emulation by all. She was a humble, devout disciple of Christ, and ever went about doing good. ... She was honored and respected by all who appreciate noble womanhood consecrated to unselfish labor for the uplifting and betterment of mankind. Her death marks the calling of another noted leader of religious thought and one whose almost ninety years were full to overflowing with good deeds, kind words, and earnest prayers for all mankind."[2]
Third Test -- In Harmony with the Ten Commandments
You may search the estimated 25 million words of her writings and you will see that she always upholds the keeping of the Ten Commandments, including the fourth commandment which is the distinctive mark of God’s people in the last days.
Fourth Test -- Accurate Prophecies
Ellen White lived during a time when doctors advocated smoking to benefit the lungs. Varying medical opinions existed, but no real scientific proof was available. Nutrition was an unknown science. Yet in this setting, Ellen White wrote volumes in the field of health and nutrition. Dr. Clive McCay, former professor of nutrition at Cornell University, confirmed the accuracy of Ellen White's writings in the field of nutrition: "In spite of the fact that the works of Mrs. White were written long before the advent of modern scientific nutrition, no better overall guide is available today."[3]
Did Ellen White make predictions about the future that came true? Yes, she did. In 1902 she wrote, “Well-equipped tent meetings should be held in the large cities, such as San Francisco; for not long hence these cities will suffer under the judgments of God. San Francisco and Oakland are becoming as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the Lord will visit them in wrath.” Manuscript 114, 1902.
Many Adventists heeded the warning and moved from those cities. On April 18, 1906 San Francisco was largely destroyed by an earthquake and subsequent fires. Oakland and other cities also suffered.
In 1908 Ellen White wrote, “It is Satan's purpose to attract men and women to the cities, and to gain his object he invents every kind of novelty and amusement, every kind of excitement. And the cities of the earth today are becoming as were the cities before the Flood.” Selected Messages book 2, page 355.
When Ellen White was alive, only ten cities in the world had populations in excess of one million people. More than 60 did in 1962.
According to the United Nations Population Fund website, “The world is undergoing the largest wave of urban growth in history. In 2008, for the first time in history, more than half of the world’s population will be living in towns and cities. By 2030 this number will swell to almost 5 billion, with urban growth concentrated in Africa and Asia. While mega-cities have captured much public attention, most of the new growth will occur in smaller towns and cities, which have fewer resources to respond to the magnitude of the change.”[4]
She wrote in the book The Great Controversy, in 1911, “Through the two great errors, the immortality of the soul and Sunday sacredness, Satan will bring the people under his deceptions. While the former lays the foundation of spiritualism, the latter creates a bond of sympathy with Rome. The Protestants of the United States will be foremost in stretching their hands across the gulf to grasp the hand of spiritualism; they will reach over the abyss to clasp hands with the Roman power; and under the influence of this threefold union, this country will follow in the steps of Rome in trampling on the rights of conscience.” Page 588.
The Vatican was not formed until 1929. Who could have imagined in 1911 that Protestant churches would join an ecumenical movement and renew ties with the Roman Catholic Church? Yet all this has happened in the last thirty years.
There are many other predictions that could be cited, but because of space limitations, only one more will be given. In 1901 Ellen White wrote:
On one occasion, when in New York City, I was in the night season called upon to behold buildings rising story after story toward heaven. These buildings were warranted to be fireproof, and they were erected to glorify the owners and builders. Higher and still higher these buildings rose, and in them the most costly material was used. . . .
The scene that next passed before me was an alarm of fire. Men looked at the lofty and supposedly fire-proof buildings and said: "They are perfectly safe." But these buildings were consumed as if made of pitch. The fire engines could do nothing to stay the destruction. The firemen were unable to operate the engines.--Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, pp. 12, 13
Was Ellen White’s vision of 1901 fulfilled on September 11, 2001? Or could it be that the World Trade Center was just a foretaste of what will be the ultimate fulfillment of Ellen White's predictions?
Fifth Test -- Teach the Truth About Jesus
Ellen White's books such as The Desire of Ages, Christ's Object Lessons, Steps to Christ, and Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing all testify to her fulfillment of this test. She says nothing of herself in these volumes, but constantly points others to Jesus as pre-existent before coming to this world. In the book The Desire of Ages on page 19, she wrote:
"His name shall be called Immanuel, . . . God with us." "The light of the knowledge of the glory of God" is seen "in the face of Jesus Christ." From the days of eternity the Lord Jesus Christ was one with the Father; He was "the image of God," the image of His greatness and majesty, "the outshining of His glory." It was to manifest this glory that He came to our world. To this sin-darkened earth He came to reveal the light of God's love- to be "God with us." Therefore it was prophesied of Him, "His name shall be called Immanuel."
"By coming to dwell with us, Jesus was to reveal God both to men and to angels. He was the Word of God- God's thought made audible."
The Bible predicted that in the last days the prophetic gift would appear in the remnant church. Evidence declares that Ellen White met every Bible specification for a true prophet. We would encourage you to obtain and read some of her writings and follow the biblical injunction to "despise not prophesying. Prove all things hold fast that which is good." 1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21.
Call to commitment through prayer.
[1] Joel 2:28, 29.
[2] Star St. Helena, California, July 23, 1915.
[3] Clive M. McCay, quoted in Review and Herald, February 26, 1969.
[4] http://www.unfpa.org/pds/urbanization.htm