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; arts & entertainment & sports; and commerce & science & technology.
Later, another Christian leader popularized what became known as the “Seven Mountain Mandate.” In the more recent version of this notion, Christians are not only to influence areas of culture—they are to take them over from the top down to rule and govern. Winning the culture wars is how Christians will “disciple nations.”
Let’s test whether this idea qualifies as a legitimate prophetic word.
To start, does it align with Scripture’s overarching themes and principles? Jesus did say, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations (Matt. 28:19a).” Does this mean Christians should take over society and make entire nations become Christian?
Remember, Jesus’ kingdom functions upside-down. He refused the temptation to take political power. His mission was not to overthrow the Roman government, but rather, to invite all people into a kingdom completely Other and Eternal. He pursued the hearts of people, not the rulership of nations.
(Just take a quick peek back at the Crusades to remember trying to force Christianity on whole people groups does not end well.)
You may wonder, is there a specific Scripture passage about seven mountains? Yes, in Revelation 17—and it’s not pretty. The great whore of Babylon, drunk with the blood of God’s people, sits on a scarlet beast with seven heads and ten horns.
“This calls for an understanding mind. The seven heads are seven mountains on which the woman is seated. They are also seven kings (Rev. 17:9).”
In the Bible, seven mountains represent the seat of blasphemous, antichrist rebellion and wickedness!
In light of Scripture, and the character and way of Jesus, this “mandate” fails to pass muster as a prophetic word. Our true mandate is to love and serve others, not seek power over them.
I’ve been reading Revelation, struck afresh by the majesty of God, his glorious, eternal reign, and his inclusive heart for people from every nation, tribe, people, and language whom he has made a kingdom and priests to him.
The goal of taking over culture is far too small, earthly-minded, and self-seeking.
I’m setting my sights on the Lamb who is worthy of blessing, glory, honor, wisdom, thanksgiving, honor, power, and might. This revelation of God’s beauty, love, and supreme power is the solid ground on which my hope rests in these days.
Our moment in history is just one slice of the story of humankind.
Our nation is one of many God cares about. What followers of Jesus find cause to rejoice in and celebrate must be rooted in eternity, not in earthly power or personal gain or false security.
My prayer continues to be for God’s people to manifest his love to others.
This is how the world ought to recognize us—not for asserting our rightness, tearing down those with whom we disagree, or dominating society.
Love must be the guiding factor in all we say and do. We must listen before we speak. We must leave generous room for nuance regarding the many issues to be considered as we prayerfully walk out our faith.
Humility says, “I could be wrong.” Wisdom says, “I could learn something from you.” Honor says, “I will treat you well no matter how much we may disagree.”
It’s not by lording it over cultural spheres that we influence people. It’s by our love.
May we be known for our kindness, our open ears, our willingness to think and learn and grow.
May we fix our gaze on the One enthroned eternally, worshiped by every kind of person throughout the world and the entire span of human history.
And may our love bear evidence of our rightly ordered worship.
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For a deeper dive on the gift of prophecy exercised within healthy boundaries, grab my book Prophesying Daughters: How Prophetic Ministry and Women in Leadership Strengthen the Church and the study guide. Audio book is in edit stage, coming soon!
Photo by Karsten Würth on Unsplash
