In the biblical narrative, true prophets hold a significant and divinely appointed role as messengers of God. Their primary function is to convey God's will, guidance, and revelation to His people. This role is evident throughout both the Old and New Testaments, where prophets serve as intermediaries between God and humanity, often calling for repentance, foretelling future events, and providing divine insight.

Divine Calling and Commissioning

True prophets are chosen and called by God, often through a direct and personal encounter. This divine commissioning is crucial, as it establishes their authority and authenticity. For instance, the prophet Jeremiah recounts his calling: "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 divine selection underscores that true prophets do not assume their role by personal ambition but by God's sovereign choice.

Conveyors of God's Word

The primary responsibility of a true prophet is to deliver God's message accurately and faithfully. This often involves proclaiming God's laws, warnings, and promises. Prophets like Isaiah and Ezekiel were tasked with delivering messages that were sometimes unpopular or difficult, yet they remained steadfast in their duty. As God instructed Ezekiel, "You must speak My words to them, whether they listen or fail to listen, for they are rebellious" (Ezekiel 2:7). This highlights the prophet's role as a mouthpiece for God, regardless of the audience's reception.

Call to Repentance and Righteousness

True prophets frequently call God's people to repentance and a return to righteousness. Their messages often address moral and spiritual decay, urging the people to turn back to God. The prophet Joel, for example, exhorts the people, "Return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion" (Joel 2:13). This call to repentance is a central theme in the prophetic ministry, emphasizing God's desire for His people to live in obedience and faithfulness.

Foretelling and Forthtelling

Prophets are known for both foretelling future events and forthtelling God's truth. While foretelling involves predicting future occurrences, often as a warning or a promise, forthtelling is the proclamation of God's current will and truth. The prophet Isaiah, for instance, foretold the coming of the Messiah: "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel" (Isaiah 7:14). This dual role of foretelling and forthtelling serves to guide, warn, and encourage God's people.

Intercessors and Mediators

True prophets often act as intercessors, standing in the gap between God and the people. They plead on behalf of the people, seeking God's mercy and intervention. Moses exemplifies this role when he intercedes for Israel after their sin with the golden calf, imploring God to forgive them (Exodus 32:11-14). This intercessory role highlights the prophet's deep concern for the spiritual well-being of the people and their relationship with God.

Signs and Wonders

In some instances, true prophets are empowered to perform signs and wonders as a testament to their divine authority. Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, where God answers by fire, serves as a powerful demonstration of God's power and the authenticity of Elijah's prophetic ministry (1 Kings 18:36-39). Such miraculous acts serve to validate the prophet's message and confirm God's presence and power.

Suffering and Rejection

True prophets often face suffering and rejection as they fulfill their divine mandate. Their messages, which challenge the status quo and call for repentance, can lead to persecution. Jesus Himself acknowledges this reality, lamenting over Jerusalem: "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her" (Matthew 23:37). This aspect of the prophetic role underscores the cost of faithfulness to God's calling.

In summary, the role of true prophets is multifaceted, encompassing the delivery of God's word, a call to repentance, foretelling and forthtelling, intercession, and the demonstration of divine power. Their ministry is marked by divine commissioning, faithfulness, and often, personal sacrifice. Through their obedience, true prophets serve as vital instruments in God's redemptive plan for His people.