Prophets in Christianity
The Prophetic Tradition
Christianity embraces the Hebrew prophets as foretelling Christ and continues to recognize prophetic gifts in the church. Jesus himself is seen as prophet, priest, and king—the ultimate fulfillment of all prophetic hope.
Old Testament Prophets
Christianity honors all the Hebrew prophets, seeing their writings as inspired scripture that points to Christ. Isaiah and Daniel are especially prominent in Christian interpretation for their messianic prophecies.
New Testament Prophetic Figures
John the Baptist bridges the testaments as the last Old Testament-style prophet and herald of Christ. Jesus is the prophet like Moses (Deuteronomy 18:15) whom all prophets foretold.
The Gift of Prophecy
The New Testament teaches that prophecy continues as a spiritual gift in the church (1 Corinthians 12-14). While distinct from the canonical prophets, this gift of speaking God's word remains active in Christian understanding.
Prophecy in Christian Theology
Jesus as Prophet
Jesus fulfills the prophetic office as the one who perfectly reveals God's word—indeed, as the Word made flesh (John 1:14). He is the prophet Moses foretold who would arise from among the people.
Prophecy Fulfilled
Christians read the Old Testament prophets as foretelling Christ's coming, suffering, death, and resurrection. Isaiah 53, the Suffering Servant, is a key example of this interpretive tradition.
Elijah and John
Jesus identified John the Baptist as the Elijah who was to come (Matthew 11:14), the one who would prepare the way for the Lord, fulfilling Malachi's prophecy.
Ongoing Prophecy
Many Christian traditions believe the gift of prophecy continues today, though understood differently from biblical prophecy. This includes preaching, words of knowledge, and edification of the church.