Quote:
Originally Posted by JJ
I repost here the real question I’m looking for answers to. It is “generic”, not LC specific. And thanks for good discussion on this question.
I’ve seen a fundamental divide among theologians about whether generations after John even have them. Some say there are only shepherds (pastors) and teachers as the initial apostles “laid the foundation”, though some of those may act as “sent ones” to other areas to preach the gospel and “church plant”. Others say apostles and prophets still exist. All say “beware of false apostles and test what they say carefully."
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Deuteronomy 18:19 I myself will call to account anyone who does not listen to my words that the prophet speaks in my name. 20 But a prophet who presumes to speak in my name anything I have not commanded, or a prophet who speaks in the name of other gods, is to be put to death.”
21 You may say to yourselves, “How can we know when a message has not been spoken by the Lord?” 22 If what a prophet proclaims in the name of the Lord does not take place or come true, that is a message the Lord has not spoken. That prophet has spoken presumptuously, so do not be alarmed.
*So we are required to listen to God's words spoken by a prophet.
*Someone who presumes to speak in God's name that which God has not spoken is to be put to death.
*How do you know whether God spoke the word or not?
*If what was spoken transpires or comes true, then the message was from God. If it doesn't come true, it was a presumptuous utterance and the prophet should be put to death.
In this case, one
the test in the Old Testament is to "pay attention." Watch to see whether the word spoken the prophet comes true. This is supported by the New Testament verses:
Matthew 7:16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
Matthew 7:20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
Whether apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers or any Christian for that matter,
the test is the fruit of their ministry, their life, or their walk.
Nell