23 November Deuteronomy 13

A True Prophet.

Deuteronomy 13:1-4 (AMP) “If a prophet arises among you, or a dreamer of dreams, and gives you a sign or a wonder, and the sign or the wonder which he spoke (foretold) to you comes to pass, and if he says, ‘Let us follow after other gods (whom you have not known) and let us serve and worship them,’ you shall not listen to the words of that prophet or that dreamer of dreams; for the Lord your God is testing you to know whether you love the Lord your God with all your heart and mind and all your soul [your entire being]. You shall walk after the Lord your God and you shall fear [and worship] Him [with awe-filled reverence and profound respect], and you shall keep His commandments and you shall listen to His voice, and you shall serve Him, and cling to Him”.

Deuteronomy Chapter 13 is about detecting and dealing with “false prophets.” A true prophet shares God's written Word, also called "the logos," with others. They may also speak a specific message, called "the rhema," as guided by the Holy Spirit. The purpose of a prophet’s words is usually to encourage, restore, or lift up others. As 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV) says, "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up". Likewise Ephesians 4:29 (NLT) encourages, “Let everything you say be good and helpful so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them”. Jude 1:20 (NIV) also reminds believers, “But you, dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit". The Holy Spirit helps a true prophet remember verses to share with someone who needs God’s comfort, guidance, or correction.

In John 14:26 (NIV), Jesus says, “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you”. Thus if a message involves guidance, it is often confirmed by others, as shown in 2 Corinthians 13:1 (NIV): “Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses”.

Every believer is encouraged to be a prophet in this way. The more of the Bible you know and remember, the more the Holy Spirit can help you use it to encourage others. Paul describes prophecy as a greater gift than speaking in tongues. In 1 Corinthians 14:4-5 (NIV), he says, “The one who prophesies edifies the church. I would like everyone to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy”. Paul is not talking about predicting the future but about using God’s Word to uplift and encourage others. By learning Scripture, you can take on this critical role.

In conclusion, a true prophet is recognised by their dedication to God’s Word and commitment to speaking truth that aligns with God’s character and commands. Deuteronomy 13 reminds us to discern true prophecy by its faithfulness to God, as even a miracle or fulfilled prediction is not enough if it draws people away from Him. A true prophet will always point others toward worship, obedience, and a closer relationship with God, not to other gods or self-centred pursuits.

Every believer is called to embody this role of a prophet, allowing the Holy Spirit to work through them to encourage, uplift, and build others in faith. By studying Scripture and staying close to God, we prepare to share words of wisdom, comfort, and guidance that reflect God’s love and truth. In this way, we fulfil a high calling—not by foretelling events but by faithfully sharing God’s heart and Word with others. As we cling to God and keep His commands, we become vessels of His truth and love in the lives of those around us.