In the biblical context, prophets and diviners are individuals who claim to possess the ability to communicate divine messages or predict future events. However, the roles and legitimacy of these figures are distinctly different in the Scriptures.

Prophets

Prophets in the Bible are individuals chosen by God to deliver His messages to the people. They serve as God's mouthpieces, conveying His will, warnings, and promises. The role of a prophet is both significant and sacred, as they are called to speak truth, often in the face of opposition and disbelief.

The Old Testament is replete with prophets, including major figures such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel, as well as the twelve minor prophets like Hosea, Joel, and Amos. These prophets often addressed issues of idolatry, social injustice, and the need for repentance, calling the people of Israel back to covenant faithfulness.

The Berean Standard Bible highlights the role of prophets in passages such as Deuteronomy 18:18-19, where God promises to raise up a prophet like Moses: "I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers. I will put My words in his mouth, and he will tell them everything I command him. And I will hold accountable anyone who does not listen to My words that the prophet speaks in My name."

Prophets were also known for performing signs and wonders as evidence of their divine commission. Elijah and Elisha, for example, performed miracles that demonstrated God's power and authority. The New Testament continues this theme, with John the Baptist serving as a prophet who prepares the way for Jesus Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of the prophetic office.

Diviners

In contrast to prophets, diviners are individuals who claim to predict the future or gain insight through supernatural means not sanctioned by God. The Bible consistently condemns divination and related practices, associating them with paganism and falsehood.

The Berean Standard Bible clearly articulates this stance in Deuteronomy 18:10-12: "Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, practices divination or conjury, interprets omens, practices sorcery, casts spells, consults a medium or spiritist, or inquires of the dead. For whoever does these things is detestable to the LORD, and because of these detestable things the LORD your God is driving out the nations before you."

Divination is often linked with idolatry and rebellion against God. The account of King Saul consulting the witch of Endor (1 Samuel 28) serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of seeking guidance outside of God's ordained means. Saul's actions ultimately lead to his downfall, illustrating the dangers of turning to divination.

The New Testament also warns against false prophets and those who claim to have divine insight without God's endorsement. Jesus Himself warns in Matthew 7:15 , "Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves."

Conclusion

In summary, the Bible distinguishes between true prophets, who are divinely appointed messengers of God, and diviners, who engage in practices condemned by Scripture. The role of the prophet is to faithfully communicate God's word, while divination is seen as a counterfeit and dangerous practice that leads people away from the truth.