The Bible, the Spirit of Prophecy, and the Church

The Tests

In the Divine Word, God has given certain rules by which His people may test the claims of those who feel they have any of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. One of such tests, so far as the prophet of God is concerned, is that of miracles. Usually through the centuries men have resorted to the spectacular in order to justify their claims. Surely, men say, if a miracle is wrought, this is certain evidence that the message is of God. But we must remember that false prophets can work miracles. This is emphasized very strongly in the Bible. We see it in the counsel of Jesus: BSPC 131.3

“There shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” Matthew 24:24. BSPC 131.4

The revelator also reminds us that in the last days the powers of evil will deceive “them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do.” Revelation 13:14. So we need to be on our guard in this respect. It seems that miracles, after all, are not a final test of the genuineness of the prophet. In the centuries long ago Jehovah gave instruction to His people: BSPC 131.5

“If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of dreams, and gives thee a sign or a wonder, and the sign or the wonder come to pass. Whereof he spoke unto thee, saying, Let us go after other gods, which thou has not known, and let us serve them. Thou shall not hearken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams: for the Lord your God proves you, to know whether you love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul. You shall walk after the Lord your God, and fear him, and keep his commandments, and obey his voice, and you shall serve him, and cleave unto him.” Deuteronomy 13:14. BSPC 132.1

Here, then, is a vital test: Does the one with prophetic claims teach us to disobey the law of God? Does he make little of God’s requirements? Does he set aside the commandment of God and substitute something based merely on tradition? If so, we are counseled not to follow him, even though he may perform many outstanding and imposing wonders. The divine counsel is, Do not believe, and do not follow him. BSPC 132.2

Our minds are directed in this consideration to John the Baptist, whom the Savior tells us was the greatest prophet that ever lived. BSPC 132.3

“For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.” Luke 7:28. BSPC 132.4

Yet the same Savior tells us that “John did no miracle: but all things that John spoke of this man were true.” John 10:41. Here, then, is another vital test, something to be seen, not in miracles or ostentatious wonders, but in speaking and proclaiming the truth of God. BSPC 132.5