This week on Resident Strangers, Sarah asks Steve and Rich to tackle the topic of modern-day prophecy.

Defining prophecy isn't always as straightforward as it seems, even in Scripture. Before diving in, the crew makes it clear that they are not cessationists; they believe the spiritual gifts did not cease after the New Testament.

Throughout the Bible, prophecy takes different forms. Sometimes it's the foretelling of future events, like the prophecies fulfilled in Christ's birth or the visions of Revelation. Other times, it involves God revealing something that was previously hidden. Today, many people also claim to receive fresh prophetic words from God. Steve and Rich share some of their own experiences, some of them admittedly unusual, while pointing back to what Scripture teaches.

Looking at passages like Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12-14, they discuss the gift of prophecy in the early church, recognizing that believers at that time did not yet have the completed Word of God. So, should prophecy today be considered normative or miraculous?

One thing is certain: any modern claim to prophecy must be tested against Scripture. God will never reveal something that contradicts His Word. It's also important to ask whether a prophecy has actually come to pass. If God has truly spoken, what He says will prove true.

Rich also offers an important reminder: modern prophetic experiences should never be elevated above the ordinary Christian life. As 1 Corinthians 14:3 says, "The one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort." That standard alone helps us evaluate much of what is labeled as prophecy today.

Steve, Rich, and Sarah are taking a two-week summer break and look forward to being back with you on August 4th! In the meantime, catch up on any episodes you may have missed, revisit your favorites, share the podcast with a friend, and leave a review. See you in August!

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