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Rev. Mike Ofori Junior of the Church of Hope, Sunyani, has addressed the increasing criticism directed towards the prophetic ministry in Ghana. Acknowledging the concerns raised by senior ministers regarding false prophets, deception, and manipulation, Rev. Ofori emphasizes the importance of not discrediting the entire prophetic ministry, which he believes is a divinely ordained office. Though not primarily functioning as a prophet himself, Rev. Ofori feels compelled to defend the genuine prophetic ministry and encourage those truly called by God to persevere in their calling.
Rev. Ofori firmly establishes the Biblical foundation of the prophetic ministry, referencing Ephesians 4:11, which outlines the fivefold ministry gifts given by Christ to build up the church, including prophets. He argues that discrediting prophets is not merely an attack on individuals but an assault on God’s established structure for the church.
Addressing the undeniable reality of false prophets, Rev. Ofori acknowledges that some have commercialized the ministry, resorting to gimmicks, fake miracles, and fear tactics. However, he points out that Jesus Himself warned about false prophets in Matthew 7:15, demonstrating that such individuals have always existed. Rev. Ofori stresses that Jesus’ warning was not to reject prophecy altogether but rather to exercise discernment between the false and the true.
Rev. Ofori offers encouragement and guidance to those genuinely called into the prophetic ministry, urging them not to be discouraged by attacks and criticisms. He emphasizes the following key principles:
1. God defends His own: Drawing from Jeremiah 1:19, Rev. Ofori assures true prophets that God will fight for them and protect them from prevailing forces.
2. Character over charisma: He stresses the importance of a righteous lifestyle and unwavering integrity, stating that a true prophet’s actions and character will speak for themselves, aligning with Matthew 7:16, “You will know them by their fruits.”
3. Stay accountable: Rev. Ofori advises prophets to surround themselves with wise counsel, seeking mentorship and accountability within the broader Christian community to avoid isolation and potential pitfalls.
4. Preach Christ, not just prophecies: He emphasizes that the prophetic ministry’s ultimate purpose is to point people to Jesus Christ, not merely to perform miracles or deliver predictions. True prophecy, he asserts, will always align with the Word of God.
In conclusion, Rev. Ofori reiterates that while false prophets exist, so do genuine ones, and the prophetic ministry remains relevant and necessary. Instead of condemning the entire ministry, he encourages the church to focus on discernment, mentorship, and accountability to identify and support true prophets. He urges those genuinely called to hold their ground, reminding them that their calling is divine and no human attack can undo God’s work. He encourages them to persevere in prayer and speak as the Lord leads, trusting that the faithful remnant will ultimately prevail.
