In the biblical context, a prophet is an individual chosen by God to deliver His messages to the people. The role of a true prophet is multifaceted, encompassing the delivery of divine revelation, guidance, correction, and sometimes foretelling future events. The Bible provides numerous examples and characteristics of true prophets, emphasizing their divine calling, moral integrity, and the authenticity of their messages.

Divine Calling and Commissioning

True prophets are divinely appointed by God. This calling is often accompanied by a direct encounter with God or a clear divine mandate. For instance, the prophet Jeremiah recounts his calling: "The word of the LORD came to me, saying: '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 1:4-5). Similarly, Isaiah's vision of the Lord in the temple (Isaiah 6) marks his commissioning as a prophet.

Messenger of God's Word

A primary role of the prophet is to serve as a messenger of God's word. Prophets convey God's will, commands, and teachings to the people. They often begin their messages with phrases like "Thus says the LORD," indicating that their words are not their own but are divinely inspired. The prophet Ezekiel is instructed, "You must speak My words to them, whether they listen or fail to listen, for they are rebellious" (Ezekiel 2:7).

Moral and Ethical Integrity

True prophets are characterized by their moral and ethical integrity. They live lives that reflect the holiness and righteousness of God. Their personal conduct serves as a testament to the authenticity of their message. The prophet Samuel, for example, is noted for his integrity and faithfulness: "As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you. And I will continue to teach you the good and right way" (1 Samuel 12:23).

Role in Guidance and Correction

Prophets often provide guidance and correction to the people and their leaders. They call the nation back to covenant faithfulness and warn against idolatry and injustice. Nathan the prophet confronts King David with his sin, saying, "You are the man!" (2 Samuel 12:7), illustrating the prophet's role in holding even the king accountable to God's standards.

Foretelling and Forthtelling

While foretelling future events is a component of the prophetic role, it is not the sole function. Prophets also engage in forthtelling, which involves proclaiming God's truth and calling for repentance in the present. The prophet Amos declares, "But let justice roll on like a river, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream" (Amos 5:24), emphasizing the need for immediate social and moral reform.

Signs and Wonders

In some instances, prophets perform signs and wonders to validate their divine commission. Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18) serves as a dramatic demonstration of God's power and the authenticity of Elijah's prophetic ministry.

Suffering and Rejection

True prophets often face suffering and rejection. Their messages, which challenge the status quo and call for repentance, are frequently met with resistance. Jesus Himself acknowledges this pattern, lamenting, "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her" (Matthew 23:37).

Conclusion

The role of a true prophet is integral to the biblical narrative, serving as a conduit for divine communication and a catalyst for spiritual renewal. Through their words and actions, prophets call God's people to faithfulness, justice, and righteousness, embodying the divine message they are entrusted to deliver.