### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **prophēteía**, represented by `{{G4394}}`, denotes a **prediction**, specifically a **prophecy** or the act of **prophesying**. It appears **19 times** across **19 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is derived from προφήτης ("prophecy") and refers to both scriptural and other forms of prediction, highlighting its role as a key channel of divine communication.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G4394}}` is presented in several significant contexts. It is frequently identified as a spiritual gift given to the church ([[Romans 12:6]], [[1 Corinthians 12:10]]). The book of Revelation refers to its own content as a **prophecy**, with blessings for those who hear and keep its words [[Revelation 1:3]] and warnings for those who alter them [[Revelation 22:18]]. The ultimate source of **prophecy** is defined not as human will, but as holy men of God speaking as they were moved by the Holy Ghost [[2 Peter 1:21]]. It is also stated that "the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of **prophecy**" [[Revelation 19:10]], linking it directly to Christ.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the nature and function of **prophecy**:
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (spirit): This word is central to understanding the origin of prophecy. The testimony of Jesus is the **spirit** of prophecy [[Revelation 19:10]], and prophecy is delivered by holy men moved by the Holy **Ghost** [[2 Peter 1:21]].
* `{{G5486}}` **chárisma** (gift): This term identifies prophecy as a divine gratuity or spiritual endowment. Believers are described as having **gifts** that differ, including the **gift of prophecy** [[1 Timothy 4:14]], which should be used with faith [[Romans 12:6]].
* `{{G1124}}` **graphḗ** (scripture): This word connects prophecy to the written, holy Word of God. It is explicitly stated that "no prophecy of the **scripture** is of any private interpretation" [[2 Peter 1:20]], indicating that prophecy can be part of the sacred text.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4394}}` is significant, establishing key principles of divine communication.
* **Divine Origin and Authority:** Prophecy is not of human will but is given by God through the Holy Spirit [[2 Peter 1:21]]. As a result, it is not to be despised [[1 Thessalonians 5:20]] and, when recorded in a book like Revelation, carries a divine warning against alteration [[Revelation 22:18-19]].
* **A Gift for Believers:** As a spiritual gift, **prophesying** serves those who believe, not those who do not believe [[1 Corinthians 14:22]]. It is listed among other gifts intended to profit the church, such as revelation, knowledge, and doctrine [[1 Corinthians 14:6]].
* **Christocentric Focus:** The essence of **prophecy** is centered on Christ, as "the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy" [[Revelation 19:10]]. This establishes that true prophecy ultimately bears witness to Him.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4394}}` defines much more than simple prediction. It is a Spirit-imparted gift, a means by which God communicates His will and truth. Whether delivered orally or recorded as **scripture**, **prophecy** serves to edify the church, bears authoritative testimony to Jesus Christ, and must be treated as sacred. Its value is underscored by the instruction not to neglect it [[1 Timothy 4:14]] but to use it for the good of believers.
TRV