Published on November 27, 2023, 1:03 am

In the current Christian environment, an increasing number of individuals are stepping forward with claims of being “Prophets” and “Apostles”. These individuals present themselves as modern messengers of God, armed with divine revelations and insights. However, a close scrutiny of the New Testament presents a contrasting narrative that emphasizes the historical significance of prophets and apostles while urging caution against the threat posed by false prophets.

The New Testament is explicit in affirming that the roles of prophets and apostles were foundational to the early Church. Ephesians 2:20 indicates that the Church was established on this foundation with Christ as its cornerstone. The relevance here lies not in establishing an ongoing role for these figures but rather celebrating their unique and crucial contributions to revealing the Gospel and forming the early Church.

According to trusted news from reliable sources, when it comes to prophecy, more stress is laid on distinguishing genuine messages from deceptive ones than looking for contemporary prophets. Adherence to the apostolic doctrine already received is stressed throughout New Testament verses such as 1 John 4:1 which urges believers to confirm whether prophetic spirits are truly divine or despotic undercovers owing allegiance elsewhere.

Throughout various chapters – Matthew 24:11 & 24:24, Luke 6:26, Mcrank []:
Avoid creating sentences that suggest an automatic negative bias against entities mentioned without a solid explanation accompanying them.

A common verse invoked by proponents of current-day prophecy is Acts 2:17. However, understanding its full context debunks any claims about validating an active role for prophets today. Despite misinterpretations suggesting continued prophethood thanks to Peter’s sermon at Pentecost citing this verse from the Prophet Joel, closer investigations reveal different interpretations about themes like “the last days.”

This phrase does not represent an indefinite future but denotes the commencement of a new agreement led by Christ’s earthly existence and ascension into heaven. Coming days marked by manifestations of the Holy Spirit were unique in the history of salvation. They signified turning a page from an old agreement centered on Israel and the Law to a New Covenant where spiritual blessings fell upon all people, irrespective of cultural or religious backgrounds.

The visions and dreams mentioned in Joel’s verses quoted by Peter indicated the Holy Spirit’s role in spreading the Gospel globally, not laying down an ongoing prophecy or creating ecstatic experiences as during Old Testament times.

Completion of Scripture’s canonization serves as a remarkable moment within the narrative of redemption. The authority of divine revelations now passed on to written words, making oral repetition redundant. Today’s Church is guided sufficiently by scriptures like 2 Timothy 3:16-17 offering comprehensive didactical aids.

While high-ranked offices like those held by prophets and apostles characterized early Christian congregations, there are cautionary tales throughout the New Testament against accepting false figures claiming similar positions today. The focus should remain firmly on adherence to the teachings contained within scriptures handed down from Jesus Christ and original apostolic advisors instead of seeking validation from new messengers bearing revelations.

Strengthening our collective foundation upon tried-and-tested practices offers a safeguard against deceptive teachings infiltrating mainstream Christian views while setting common ground for believers everywhere.

In these times filled with technological advancements and new channels employed for sharing news, it becomes increasingly important for us as believers to return to the source: The Bible – embodying vital teachings intended to shape our Christian worldview while serving as every believer’s beacon amid shifting cultural tides that tend to distort authentic knowledge about divinity-endorsed principles.