Prophets

In the biblical narrative, prophets serve as God's spokespersons, delivering His messages to the people of Israel and, at times, to other nations. The role of a prophet is primarily characterized by receiving divine revelation and communicating it faithfully. Prophets often call the people to repentance, warn of impending judgment, and provide guidance and hope for the future.

The Hebrew word for prophet, "navi," implies one who is called or appointed. Prophets are chosen by God and are often marked by a divine encounter or calling, as seen in the lives of Moses (Exodus 3), Isaiah (Isaiah 6), and Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:4-10). The Berean Standard Bible captures the essence of prophetic calling in Jeremiah 1:5: "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."

Prophets in the Old Testament include major figures such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel, as well as the twelve minor prophets. Their messages often contain elements of foretelling (predicting future events) and forth-telling (proclaiming God's truth to the present situation). Prophets also play a crucial role in maintaining the covenant relationship between God and His people, reminding them of the law and calling them back to faithfulness.

In the New Testament, the role of the prophet continues, though it is often seen in the context of the early church. Prophets in the New Testament, such as Agabus (Acts 11:28) and the daughters of Philip (Acts 21:9), provide guidance and edification to the church. The gift of prophecy is also mentioned as a spiritual gift in 1 Corinthians 12:10 and 14:1-5, emphasizing its role in building up the body of Christ.

Priests

Priests in the Bible serve as mediators between God and the people, performing sacrifices, rituals, and maintaining the sanctity of worship. The priesthood is established in the Mosaic Law, with Aaron and his descendants set apart for this sacred duty (Exodus 28:1). The Berean Standard Bible in Exodus 28:1 states, "Bring near to you your brother Aaron and his sons from among the Israelites to serve Me as priests—Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar."

The primary responsibilities of priests include offering sacrifices for sin, maintaining the tabernacle or temple, and teaching the law to the people. The high priest, a unique role within the priesthood, enters the Holy of Holies once a year on the Day of Atonement to make atonement for the sins of the nation (Leviticus 16).

Priests are also tasked with discerning the will of God, often using the Urim and Thummim (Exodus 28:30) and providing guidance to the people. They are expected to live lives of holiness and purity, as they represent the people before God and God before the people.

In the New Testament, the concept of priesthood is transformed through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus is described as the great high priest in the order of Melchizedek (Hebrews 4:14-16; 7:17), who offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin. This new covenant priesthood emphasizes the direct access believers have to God through Christ, as seen in 1 Peter 2:9 : "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."

The roles of prophets and priests are integral to understanding the unfolding of God's redemptive plan throughout Scripture. They highlight the importance of divine communication, mediation, and the call to holiness in the life of God's people.