First Timothy: Fighting the Good Fight "With Prophecy"
Scripture References: 1 Timothy 1:18-19; 1 Timothy 4:14-16; Acts 1:8; Joel 2/Acts 2; Ephesians 4; Numbers 6; 1 Corinthians 14:1; Hebrews 6; 2 Timothy 1:6-7; Numbers 13-14
Intro: Welcome. The topic of prophecy is vast, like an ocean. Today, we can't dive deep, but we'll skim the surface, touching key points about the prophetic. Prophecy is essentially God's Word becoming personal. Like Paul writing to Timothy, affirming his call despite insecurities, God speaks directly to His children. His word about you is more important than any other word spoken over you.
Key Points:
- The Big Idea: To be the church God intends, we need both sound doctrine (the foundation, boundaries, the "what") and the current work and empowerment of the Holy Spirit (the power, the tools, the "how" - Acts 1:8). The Spirit empowers, glorifies Jesus, and builds the church with His gifts. We need His "fingerprints" on our lives.
- What is Prophecy?: It's God personally delivering His message, like a parent visiting instead of just sending a card. It carries presence and power. Definition: God speaking love, affirmation, and purpose over the life and into the heart of His child. It confirms calling, affirms fitness for service (despite our inadequacy), and acknowledges God's placement.
- Levels of Prophecy:
- General Prophecy (All Believers): Speaking encouragement, affirmation, blessing (Joel 2/Acts 2). We are all called to this.
- Gift of Prophecy (Mature Believers): Specific words for the church body, often exercised by trusted individuals (1 Cor 14).
- Office of Prophet (Some): Foundational ministry gift to the church (Eph 4).
- Receiving/Imparting: Prophecy and spiritual gifts can be imparted through the laying on of hands by spiritual leadership (1 Tim 4:14, 2 Tim 1:6, Heb 6), signifying affirmation and transmission.
- Importance Today: Prophecy fills a deep cultural deficit of affirmation. It communicates our true value (not based on performance), resets our often-negative self-view to God's view, outlines purpose, and instills faith to step out. It shifts our identity from slaves to beloved sons and daughters (Numbers 6).
- Handling Misuse: Extend grace for immaturity ("adorable messes," like a baby with cake), but expect growth. Misuse doesn't negate proper use. Boundaries: Avoid giving specific direction, correction, dates, or mates via prophecy. Judge words against Scripture (1 Cor 14).
- Responding to Prophecy:
- Judge it: Does it align with Scripture?
- Embrace it: Receive it by faith.
- Pray into it: Wage warfare with the promise against doubt/opposition (1 Tim 1:18).
- Live into it: A prophetic promise is an invitation, not a guarantee. Like Joshua and Caleb, step into it by faith, even if it feels impossible (Numbers 13-14).
Conclusion: God's call is always bigger than our natural ability, requiring us to depend on His Spirit. Prophecy reminds us of His perspective and empowers us to step into His purposes. We need both the solid ground of doctrine and the empowering wind of the Spirit. Don't let fear keep you under a "cautious umbrella"; step out and receive God's blessing. Fan into flame the gift God has given you!
Call to Action:
- Ask God: Seek a personal word from God, primarily through His written Word (Scripture). Ask for a life verse.
- Seek Prayer: Ask mature leaders you trust to pray for you and speak into your life.
- Be Available: When opportunities for prayer arise, step for
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