Unlocking the Gift for Every Believer

Introduction: In 1 Corinthians 12 and 14, Paul gives a clear and compelling vision for the operation of spiritual gifts within the church. While he highlights many gifts, he places a special emphasis on prophecy. In 1 Corinthians 14:1, Paul exhorts, “Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy.” This statement reveals both the importance of prophecy and the expectation that all believers should pursue it. Today, we will explore why prophecy is key to the body of Christ and why every believer is mandated to step into this gift.

 

For the past several centuries, the church has largely been built around the pillar of the pastor, elevating one role while neglecting the biblical foundation. Yet Ephesians 2:20 makes it clear—the church is to be built upon the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the chief cornerstone. While the five-fold ministry is essential, we've often shaped the church around our preferences rather than God's design. By sidelining apostolic and prophetic voices, we've created a structure that leans heavily on shepherding but lacks the full equipping and direction the body of Christ needs. It's time to realign with the blueprint God intended.

 

• Apostles – Pioneers and foundation-layers, sent to establish and expand the Kingdom of God. They provide vision, direction, and governmental oversight.

• Prophets – Speak God’s heart and reveal His will, calling the church to repentance, alignment, and deeper intimacy with Christ. They bring correction, encouragement, and direction.

• Evangelists – Passionate about reaching the lost, they carry the gospel beyond the church walls, stirring revival and calling people to salvation.

• Pastors – Shepherds who nurture, protect, and care for the flock, ensuring believers grow in faith, unity, and love.

• Teachers – Ground the church in biblical truth, bringing understanding and wisdom to help believers mature in their walk with Christ.

 

Matthew 16:18, where Jesus tells Peter:

"And I tell you that you are Peter (Πέτρος, Petros), and on this rock (πέτρα, petra) I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it."

 

Key Greek Distinctions:

• Petros (Πέτρος) – A smaller stone or rock, something movable (to be made mobile, a rolling stone). This is the name Jesus gave Simon, calling him Peter.

• Petra (πέτρα) – A massive, immovable rock or bedrock foundation.

 

I. Prophecy: A Gift for Every Believer

• The Spirit Gives Gifts to All (1 Corinthians 12:7-11)

  • Paul makes it clear that spiritual gifts are given to each one for the common good.

  • The same Spirit who distributes gifts enables all believers to function in them.

  • If we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we have access to the gifts He provides, including prophecy.

• Moses’ Desire and Paul’s Confirmation (Numbers 11:29 & 1 Corinthians 14:5)

  • Paul echoes this when he declares, “I would like every one of you to prophesy.”

  • This desire reveals that prophecy is not for a select few, but for all who carry the Spirit of God.

 

II. The Purpose and Power of Prophecy

• Prophecy Strengthens the Church (1 Corinthians 14:3-4)

  • Paul defines prophecy as speaking to people for their strengthening, encouragement, and comfort.

  • Unlike tongues, which edify the individual, prophecy builds up the whole body.

  • The church is in constant need of clarity, direction, and confirmation—prophecy supplies these in a supernatural way.

• Prophecy Brings Conviction and Revelation (1 Corinthians 14:24-25)

1. • When prophecy operates, it reveals the secrets of the heart and leads people to worship God in awe.

   • It is not about fortune-telling, but revealing the heart of God and leading people closer to Him.

• Prophecy is a Sign of the Spirit’s Activity (Acts 2:17-18)

1. • Peter, quoting Joel 2:28, declared, “Your sons and daughters will prophesy… Even on My servants, both men and women, I will pour out My Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy.”

   • This shows that prophecy is not limited by gender, age, or status—it is for all who receive the Spirit.

 

III. The Mandate: Why Every Believer Should Prophesy

• We Are Commanded to Eagerly Desire Prophecy (1 Corinthians 14:1)

  • Many believers hesitate to step into prophecy, thinking it is for only a special few.

  • Yet, Paul’s command is to “eagerly desire” spiritual gifts—especially prophecy.

  • This means we must pursue it intentionally in prayer, practice, and faith.

• Prophecy Operates Through Faith, Not Perfection (Romans 12:6)

1. • Many hesitate because they fear making mistakes.

   • Yet Paul teaches that we prophesy “in accordance with our faith.”

   • Growth in prophecy comes from obedience and practice, not from waiting for perfection.

• Prophecy Releases Kingdom Breakthrough

1. • Throughout Scripture, prophetic words brought breakthrough—whether in battles, calling leaders, or revival.

   • When believers step into prophecy, they begin releasing the will of God over people, situations, and nations.

   • A prophetic church is a powerful church!

 

Conclusion: Step into the Call

Paul closes 1 Corinthians 14 with a powerful reminder: “Therefore, my brothers and sisters, be eager to prophesy.” (1 Corinthians 14:39). The invitation is open to every believer—not just pastors, prophets, or seasoned leaders, but every Spirit-filled follower of Christ.

 

Apostles and Prophets: The Foundation

• Ephesians 2:20 – "Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone."

• Ephesians 3:5 – "Which was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God's holy apostles and prophets."

• 1 Corinthians 12:28 – "And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues."

Pastors: A Rare Mention

• Ephesians 4:11 – "So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers."

• Acts 20:28 – "Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God."

 

Are you eager? Have you asked the Lord to stir this gift within you? The Holy Spirit is ready to release fresh prophetic insight in your life. Let’s pray and boldly step into the mandate God has given us.

 

Prayer: “Lord, I thank You that You have called me to eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially prophecy. I surrender to the Holy Spirit and ask You to activate this gift in my life. Use me to strengthen, encourage, and comfort others through prophetic words. Give me faith to speak what You reveal and a heart that pursues Your presence above all else. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

Call to Action:
This week, ask God to speak to you for someone else’s encouragement. Write it down, pray over it, and if led, share it with them. You may be surprised at how powerfully God moves through you!