| Series | The character of God: the God who comes |
|---|---|
| Theme | 3. The Way - 3. O LEALA |
| Colour | Lanu Meamata |
Scripture Focus: Teuteronome 18:14-22
For these nations, which thou shalt possess, hearkened unto observers of times, and unto diviners: but as for thee, the Lord thy God hath not suffered thee so to do. The Lord thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken; According to all that thou desiredst of the Lord thy God in Horeb in the day of the assembly, saying, Let me not hear again the voice of the Lord my God, neither let me see this great fire any more, that I die not. And the Lord said unto me, They have well spoken that which they have spoken. I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him. But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die. And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which the Lord hath not spoken? When a prophet speaketh in the name of the Lord, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the Lord hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.
- Deuteronomy 18:14-22 (KJV)
Study:
In this passage, God establishes the role and authority of a prophet among His people. Unlike the surrounding nations who relied on diviners and soothsayers, the Israelites were to heed the prophet God Himself would raise up from among them. This prophet would be like Moses, speaking only the words God places in his mouth and leading the people according to divine command. The passage also sets clear boundaries, warning against false prophets who claim to speak God's word without His command. The test of authenticity given is that true prophecy will come to pass, and any prophecy that does not should be rejected without fear.
Application:
Today, this scripture reminds us of the importance of discerning true spiritual leadership and guidance according to God’s word. Just as the Israelites were instructed to listen to the prophet God raised, we must seek God’s voice through His Word and the Holy Spirit. It encourages believers to be cautious of false teachings and to test any claims of divine revelation against Scripture. Recognizing Christ as the ultimate Prophet — the fulfillment of this promise — strengthens our faith and dependence on God’s truth in a world full of competing voices.
Reflection Questions:
- Who are the prophets or spiritual leaders in your life that you listen to, and how do you discern their messages?
- How can you apply the principle of testing prophecy against Scripture in your daily walk?
- In what ways does recognizing Jesus as the Prophet like Moses impact your relationship with God?
- What steps can you take to avoid being misled by false teachings?
- How does knowing that God commands and authenticates true prophets provide reassurance in your faith?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for raising up prophets to speak Your truth and guide Your people. Help us to listen with open hearts and discernment, rooted firmly in Your Word. Protect us from falsehood and lead us by Your Spirit into all truth. May we always recognize Jesus, the Prophet like Moses, who perfectly reveals Your will. Amen.
Tags: prophecy, prophet, Deuteronomy, Bible study, true prophecy, false prophets, spiritual discernment, Jesus the Prophet, Christian guidance, faith, God's word