Nurturing prophetic ministry . . .
OPINIONS DIFFER about the idea or the practicalities of nurturing the prophetic ministry or gifting. It would seem to infer an incompleteness in the work of the Spirit in the life of the believer where prophetic ministry or gifting is given – but then has to be nurtured or developed.
Others may simply (but wrongly)imply that such a call to nurture or develop the prophetic is akin to embracing something not far removed from mysticism or to some extent, an unwelcome inference of gnosticism.
There is something of a romantic view about the Old Testament ’school of the ‘prophets’. It may be that this was more literally a designation for the company of the prophets.
There are no clear accounts of prophetic training or the development of the gifts of the Spirit through on the job mentorship, but it cannot altogether be dismissed. In fact, you will be really surprised at how much people will develop in their gifting if you give them encouragement.
Throughout the scripture there are lessons that can be learned. In many cases our own encounter with the prophetic ministry can encounter something of a paradigm shift, learning to see things in a different way, extending the boundaries of understanding and perception. Such times can be moments of real discipleship and encouragement.
In spending time sharing and teaching others about our own walk with God there will be a subtle impartation. Faith rises in the heart. Never assume that someone who is new to prophetic ministry or gifting will just, ’slot in’ or ‘get it’. We need to nurture what God is doing, help people to grow tall and straight, and not bent and twisted like some unfortunately may have grown.
Friendship is the greatest factor of nurturing and developing gifting. Spend time with others and share how God reveals himself, the lessons you have learned – and always find your reference point in the Scriptures.
As we read and study the Scriptures there are constantly new concepts and ideas that spring from the page that we had not considered before. Looking in Scripture we see concepts, ideas and inspiration that profoundly motivate the prophetic, or at least, it’s mode of delivery.
It is understandable that given some encouragement, direction and exposure to other prophetic ministry that those who God has gifted in a revelatory way, will grow, develop and mature in the things that God has called them to. The key is encouragement.
In these few pages we will consider some areas that will help in a small way to nurture the immensely precious gift that God has given to the Church.