Introduction:

In 2012, a guest minister was invited for a revival program in a local church. After delivering his sermon on the first night—whether it was impactful or not is beside the point—he made a striking announcement. Standing at the altar, he declared:

“Tomorrow’s service will be even greater than tonight’s! First, invite your neighbors to join you. Second, everyone should wear red—it’s going to be fire for fire!”

The next evening, over 95% of the congregation complied, wearing something red—shirts, scarves, or accessories—believing they were obeying a prophetic directive.

This experience is not unique. Many believers have faced similar moments when a minister’s request seems more symbolic than scripturally necessary. The question then arises: How should believers respond when a so-called prophetic instruction appears unnecessary or even questionable?

This article does not aim to vilify gospel ministers but to address practices that could lead to spiritual manipulation. Many people sincerely believe that following whatever a prophet says—whether scriptural or not—is an act of faith. Unfortunately, a common misinterpretation of 2 Chronicles 20:20b has fueled this unquestioning obedience to prophets, mistakenly equating it with obedience to God.

Yet, Scripture consistently warns against false prophets and calls believers to test and discern every prophetic message. In this discussion, we will explore biblical principles to help believers know when to obey and when to reject prophetic instructions. Our goal is to uphold truth, safeguard against deception, and promote a mature, scripturally grounded approach to prophetic ministry.

Understanding 2 Chronicles 20:20b in Context

“Have faith in the Lord your God and you will be upheld; have faith in his prophets and you will be successful.” (2 Chronicles 20:20b, NIV 1984)

This verse records King Jehoshaphat encouraging Judah to trust God and the prophetic message that came from Him through His true prophets. The emphasis is not blind faith in any prophet, but faith in those who genuinely communicate God’s Word.

True prophets never speak from personal imagination; they declare only what God commands, and their messages align perfectly with Scripture.

Biblical Tests for a True Prophet

The Bible gives clear standards for distinguishing true prophets from false ones:

1. Alignment with God’s Word

• Deuteronomy 13:1–3 warns that even if a prophet performs miracles but leads people away from God’s commands, they must not be followed.
• Isaiah 8:20 declares: “To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn.”

2. Fulfillment of Prophecy

• Deuteronomy 18:21–22 teaches that if a prophet’s predictions do not come to pass, they are not sent by God.

3. Consistency with Christ’s Teachings

• Hebrews 1:1–2 affirms that in these last days, God has spoken through His Son. Any prophetic message that contradicts Christ’s teachings must be rejected.
• Galatians 1:8 warns against accepting a “different gospel,” even if preached by an angel.

4. Fruits of Righteousness

• Matthew 7:15–16: “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit, you will recognize them.”
• True prophets exhibit godly character, humility, integrity, and obedience to Christ.

When Should a Believer Obey a Prophet?

A believer should obey a prophetic instruction only when it passes biblical tests. Specifically, when:

• The message aligns with Scripture (Acts 17:11 — the Bereans tested Paul’s message by Scripture).
• The prophet exalts Christ, not themselves (John 3:30 — “He must become greater; I must become less”).
• The message leads to spiritual growth, not fear or manipulation (2 Timothy 1:7).
• The direction promotes righteous and holy living, not personal control or dependence (Titus 2:11–12).

When Should a Believer Disobey a Prophet?

Disobedience is necessary when:

• The message contradicts Scripture (Isaiah 8:20).
• The prophet seeks personal gain or control (2 Peter 2:1-3 — false teachers exploit people for money).
• The message adds to or subtracts from the gospel (Revelation 22:18-19).
• The prophet manipulates through fear, curses, or threats (2 Timothy 3:5 — “Have nothing to do with them”).

 Conclusion

Obedience to a prophet is not the same as obedience to God—unless the prophet’s message aligns with Scripture. Believers must learn to test every prophetic word and reject anything that contradicts the written Word of God.

This generation must remain vigilant against false prophets who twist Scripture for personal gain. True obedience belongs to God alone:

“We must obey God rather than men.” — Acts 5:29

By holding fast to the authority of the Bible, Christians can walk in truth, avoid deception, and grow into mature followers of Christ who discern between genuine prophecy and spiritual manipulation.