I believe God speaks through prophetic words today. That said, we have an enemy who loves to twist this beautiful, Spirit-given gift to further his wicked schemes. It is our responsibility to evaluate prophesies and prophets so we are not deceived (1 Thess. 5:19-22; 1 John 4:1). In light of this instruction, let’s examine the “Seven Mountain Mandate” teaching. This idea started nearly 50 years ago when two Christian leaders believed they heard God say Christians should influence seven areas in culture: family; religion & church; education; government & politics; the media; Continue Reading

I’ve been pondering what one friend of mine calls the “unchecked, freewheeling prophetic endorsements that some are handing out these days without biblical authority and oversight.” Widespread, gullible acceptance of such words keep many from comprehending the destructive fruit which they will surely bear. Scripture offers warnings about following the wrong kind of leader. In 2 Corinthians 11, Paul warns those in his spiritual care not to be deceived by “super apostles” who disguise themselves as apostles of Christ and servants of righteousness. The problem of “super apostles” Continue Reading

You may have questions about the legitimacy of prophets today, so let's begin with defining prophecy and prophets. In one sense, every believer has the potential to offer a simple, inspired prophetic word for the general purpose of strengthening, encouraging and comforting members of a local church.[i] In Rev. 19:10, the angel says to the apostle John, “Worship God, because the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” This “spirit of prophecy” anoints and enables people to prophesy even if they do not regularly exercise the gift of prophecy or are considered a prophet. Those Continue Reading