Who is the initiator in prophecy? Is the born-again believer supposed to prophesy at will? Is it right, according to scripture, to walk up to someone on your own authority and say, ³The Word of the Lord for you is...², and believe for God to tell you what to say? In a fellowship meeting, is it right to decide that you want to speak a word of prophecy by means of the manifestation of prophecy, and do so?
When it comes to the prophecy of a prophet, the Word of God is very explicit in stating that God is the initiator. Let¹s take a quick look at a cross-section of scripture on this subject.
II Peter 1:21. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake [as they were] moved by the Holy Ghost.
Amos 3:8 The lion hath roared, who will not fear? the Lord GOD hath spoken, who can but prophesy?
Jeremiah 23:21 I have not sent these prophets, yet they ran: I have not spoken to them, yet they prophesied.