from προφήτης; to foretell events, divine, speak under inspiration, exercise the prophetic office:--prophesy.
Transliteration:prophēteúō
Pronunciation:prof-ate-yoo'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G4395}}` (prophēteúō) is derived from `{{G4396}}` (prophētēs), meaning "prophet." At its core, `{{G4395}}` signifies the act of speaking under divine inspiration, serving as a mouthpiece for God. Its semantic range encompasses two primary facets:
1. **Foretelling:** This refers to the prediction of future events, as seen in the prophetic utterances of figures like Agabus concerning a great famine [[Acts 11:28]] or Paul's impending arrest [[Acts 21:10-11]]. While a prominent aspect, especially in the Old Testament and certain New Testament instances, it is not the sole or exhaustive meaning.
2. **Forth-telling:** This denotes the inspired proclamation of God's truth, often for the purpose of exhortation, edification, or comfort. In this sense, it is less about predicting the future and more about speaking into the present circumstances with divine insight and authority, revealing God's mind and heart. This aspect is particularly emphasized in Paul's discussion of spiritual gifts in [[1 Corinthians 14:3]].
Thus, `{{G4395}}` captures the essence of delivering a message directly from God, whether that message concerns future events or present spiritual realities.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{G4395}}` appears approximately 28 times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels, Acts, and Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians.
In the Gospels, it often refers to the prophetic activity of individuals, sometimes in a negative light, as when false prophets claim to have prophesied in Jesus' name [[Matthew 7:22]]. Zechariah, filled with the Holy Spirit, is said to have `{{G4395}}` upon the birth of John the Baptist, highlighting the divine source of such utterances [[Luke 1:67]].
The book of Acts frequently connects `{{G4395}}` with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Peter, on the day of Pentecost, quotes the prophet Joel, declaring that in the last days, God's Spirit would be poured out on all people, and "your sons and your daughters will `{{G4395}}`" [[Acts 2:17-18]]. This signifies a democratization of prophetic utterance, moving beyond a select few to a broader manifestation among believers. The predictive aspect is evident in Agabus's prophecies of famine [[Acts 11:28]] and Paul's imprisonment [[Acts 21:10-11]].
Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians provides the most extensive treatment of `{{G4395}}`, particularly in chapters 12-14. Here, `{{G4395}}` is presented as a spiritual gift (`{{G5484}}` charisma) highly desirable for the edification of the church.
* Paul encourages believers to "eagerly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may `{{G4395}}`" [[1 Corinthians 14:1]].
* Crucially, he defines the purpose of this gift: "the one who `{{G4395}}` speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and comfort" [[1 Corinthians 14:3]]. This verse strongly emphasizes the "forth-telling" aspect over mere prediction.
* The impact of `{{G4395}}` on unbelievers is also noted: when one `{{G4395}}`, the secrets of an unbeliever's heart may be disclosed, leading them to worship God [[1 Corinthians 14:24-25]].
* Paul advocates for orderly exercise of the gift, allowing multiple individuals to `{{G4395}}` in turn [[1 Corinthians 14:31]], and explicitly states, "do not forbid `{{G4395}}`" [[1 Corinthians 14:39]].
In summary, the New Testament usage of `{{G4395}}` demonstrates its connection to divine inspiration, its manifestation through the Holy Spirit, and its primary function as a gift for the edification, exhortation, and comfort of the believing community, encompassing both predictive and declarative aspects of God's message.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of `{{G4395}}` is enriched by examining its lexical family and related theological concepts:
* **`{{G4396}}` (prophētēs):** The noun form, meaning "prophet," the one who performs the action of `{{G4395}}`. This individual is God's spokesperson.
* **`{{G4394}}` (prophēteia):** The noun referring to the act or content of prophecy itself. It is the message or utterance delivered through `{{G4395}}`.
* **`{{G4400}}` (prophētikos):** The adjective, meaning "prophetic," describing something pertaining to prophecy or a prophet.
* **`{{G5484}}` (charisma):** "Spiritual gift." `{{G4395}}` is explicitly identified as a `{{G5484}}` given by the Holy Spirit [[Romans 12:6]], [[1 Corinthians 12:10]].
* **`{{G4151}}` (pneuma):** "Spirit," particularly the Holy Spirit, who empowers individuals to `{{G4395}}` [[Acts 2:17-18]].
* **`{{G2980}}` (laleō):** "To speak." Often used in contexts of inspired speech, though not exclusively. `{{G4395}}` is a specific type of divinely inspired `{{G2980}}`.
* **Old Testament Counterpart:** The Hebrew verb `{{H5012}}` (naba'), meaning "to prophesy," "to bubble up," or "to pour forth." This word also conveys the sense of speaking under divine compulsion or inspiration, often with ecstatic elements. The Septuagint frequently translates `{{H5012}}` with forms of `{{G4395}}`.
These related terms underscore that `{{G4395}}` is not an isolated act but part of a broader divine economy of communication, empowered by the Spirit, and intended for specific purposes within God's plan.
### Theological Significance
The act of `{{G4395}}` holds profound theological significance, revealing key aspects of God's nature and His interaction with humanity:
1. **Divine Revelation:** `{{G4395}}` is a primary channel through which God reveals His will, truth, and future intentions to humanity. It underscores God's active involvement in the affairs of His creation and His desire to communicate with His people. Through `{{G4395}}`, the divine mind is made known.
2. **Empowerment by the Holy Spirit:** The ability to `{{G4395}}` is consistently attributed to the direct influence and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. This highlights the Spirit's ongoing work in the church, making God's voice audible and active among believers. It is a manifestation of the Spirit's presence and power.
3. **Edification of the Church:** In the New Testament, particularly in Pauline theology, `{{G4395}}` is presented as a gift given not primarily for personal gain or sensationalism, but for the corporate good of the church. Its purpose is to build up, encourage, and comfort believers, fostering spiritual growth and unity [[1 Corinthians 14:3-4]]. This communal benefit distinguishes true Christian prophecy from mere divination.
4. **Confirmation and Guidance:** True prophecy serves to confirm God's word and character, providing guidance and direction for individuals and the community. It can expose hidden sin, bring conviction, and lead to repentance and worship [[1 Corinthians 14:24-25]].
5. **Continuity of God's Plan:** The practice of `{{G4395}}` in the New Testament demonstrates a continuity with the prophetic tradition of the Old Testament, yet with a renewed emphasis on its accessibility to all believers through the Spirit. Ultimately, all true prophecy finds its fulfillment and ultimate meaning in Jesus Christ, for "the spirit of prophecy is the testimony of Jesus" [[Revelation 19:10]].
### Summary
The Greek verb `{{G4395}}` (prophēteúō) fundamentally means "to speak under divine inspiration." Its semantic range encompasses both the foretelling of future events and, more prominently in the New Testament, the forth-telling of God's truth for the edification, exhortation, and comfort of His people. This act is consistently attributed to the empowering work of the Holy Spirit, democratizing prophetic utterance among believers in the new covenant. Theologically, `{{G4395}}` serves as a vital means of divine revelation, a manifestation of the Spirit's active presence, and a crucial gift for the building up and guidance of the Church, ultimately pointing to the person and work of Jesus Christ.
TRV