The concept of prophetic calling and commission is a significant theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the divine selection and empowerment of individuals to serve as God's messengers. Prophets in the biblical narrative are chosen by God to deliver His messages, often calling people to repentance, foretelling future events, and revealing God's will.

Old Testament Prophets

In the Old Testament, the calling of a prophet often begins with a direct encounter with God. For instance, Moses' calling occurs at the burning bush, where God commissions him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3:1-10). Similarly, Isaiah's prophetic commission is marked by a vision of the Lord seated on a throne, where he responds to God's call with, "Here am I. Send me!" (Isaiah 6:8).

Jeremiah's calling is another profound example, as God tells him, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to the nations" (Jeremiah 1:5). This highlights the divine initiative and preordained nature of prophetic roles.

Characteristics of Prophetic Calling

Prophetic calling is characterized by several key elements:

1. Divine Selection: Prophets are chosen by God, not by human decision. This selection is often accompanied by a personal encounter with the divine, as seen in the experiences of Moses, Isaiah, and Jeremiah.

2. Empowerment by the Holy Spirit: Prophets are empowered by the Spirit of God to carry out their mission. Ezekiel's calling, for example, involves the Spirit entering him and setting him on his feet to hear God's words (Ezekiel 2:2).

3. Message of Repentance and Hope: Prophets are tasked with calling people back to God, often delivering messages of repentance, judgment, and hope. Jonah's mission to Nineveh is a classic example of a call to repentance (Jonah 3:1-4).

4. Foretelling and Forthtelling: Prophets not only predict future events but also speak forth God's truth into present circumstances. Daniel's visions and interpretations serve both functions, revealing future kingdoms and God's sovereignty (Daniel 2, 7).

New Testament Prophetic Ministry

In the New Testament, the prophetic ministry continues with John the Baptist, who prepares the way for Jesus Christ by calling people to repentance (Matthew 3:1-3). Jesus Himself fulfills the ultimate prophetic role, being the Word made flesh and the perfect revelation of God (John 1:14).

The early church also recognizes the gift of prophecy as a spiritual gift given by the Holy Spirit for the edification of the church (1 Corinthians 12:10, 14:1-5). The Book of Acts records instances of prophetic activity, such as Agabus predicting a famine (Acts 11:28) and Paul's commissioning as an apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 13:2).

The Role of Prophets in God's Redemptive Plan

Prophets play a crucial role in God's redemptive plan, serving as His mouthpieces to guide, warn, and encourage His people. Their messages often point to the coming of the Messiah and the establishment of God's kingdom. The prophetic writings in the Old Testament, such as those of Isaiah and Micah, contain messianic prophecies that find fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

The prophetic calling and commission underscore the importance of obedience, faithfulness, and courage in delivering God's message, regardless of opposition or personal cost. Prophets are often met with resistance, yet their commitment to God's call remains unwavering, exemplifying a life dedicated to serving God's purposes.