A Prophet Among You

Additional Evidences

Physical manifestations. In chapter 4 mention was made of certain physical manifestations which at times accompanied the revelations of a true prophet. Taken with the other evidences, these manifestations form convincing added testimony. APAY 111.1

Timeliness is another striking feature of these revelations. Ordinarily we think of messages being given years, or even centuries before their full significance is realized; but many have been given at exactly the time they were needed. APAY 111.2

There is the fascinating story of Elisha and the king of Syria, recorded in 2 Kings 6:8-23. The king of Syria had marched against Israel. As a wise military leader, he took counsel with his associates as to his plan of procedure. But every time an ambush was planned or a move made, Elisha the prophet warned the king of Israel, “Beware that thou pass not such a place; for thither the Syrians are come down.” In a gem of understatement the chronicler tells how Israel’s king “saved himself there, not once nor twice.” So accurate was Elisha’s information that the king of Syria was certain there was a traitor in his camp. An intelligence service providing such timely and accurate information would be highly prized by any army. It is a part of God’s plan to make available to His children, in any age, well-timed guidance to meet their needs. APAY 111.3

The certainty and the fearlessness with which the prophets gave their testimonies add weight to their claims to have God’s messages. There was no hesitation, no hedging, no note of apology when Nathan stood before David and declared, “Thou art the man.” 2 Samuel 12:7. Elijah, appearing before Ahab after the long period of drought that had devastated Israel, was challenged by the king, “Art thou he that troubleth Israel?” 1 Kings 18:17. The response was certain and fearless, despite the personal danger faced by the prophet. “I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou has followed Baalim.” Verse 18. No equivocation was permitted in the delivery of the messages of the prophets. APAY 111.4

High spiritual plane. In the messages of true prophets there is nothing cheap or common or childish. While their writings deal with ordinary, everyday affairs of life, they do so in a dignified and fitting manner. Though great truths are expressed simply enough for children to understand, they are not childish, but profound enough to engage the keenest scholars in ever-expanding research. The spiritual principles laid down are the most lofty known to the human mind. Both the theme of the Bible and its mode of expression are worthy of, and command the respect of, the most learned as well as the most humble. APAY 112.1

Practical nature. Messages brought by the prophets are of a practical and useful nature. There are no weird fantasies or pointless ramblings in their communications. Though some messages are given in symbolic language, their intent may be discovered by following clearly discernible rules of interpretation. We may repeat Paul’s statement that all Scripture is profitable. APAY 112.2