The New Testament Prophet vs. The Old Testament Prophet

Attribute	The New Testament Prophet	The Old Testament Prophet
Time Period	After the birth of Jesus Christ	Before the birth of Jesus Christ
Role	Spokesperson for God, foretelling future events	Spokesperson for God, foretelling future events
Number of Prophets	Lesser number of prophets mentioned	Greater number of prophets mentioned
Major Prophets	John the Baptist, Agabus	Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel
Message	Emphasis on the coming of Jesus Christ and the establishment of the Kingdom of God	Emphasis on the covenant between God and Israel, warnings of judgment and calls for repentance

Introduction

Prophets have played a significant role in both the Old Testament and the New Testament of the Bible. While both types of prophets were chosen by God to deliver messages to His people, there are distinct differences in their attributes and roles. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of The New Testament Prophet and The Old Testament Prophet, highlighting their unique qualities and contributions to the biblical narrative.

Background of The Old Testament Prophet

The Old Testament is filled with stories of prophets who were called by God to deliver messages to the Israelites. These prophets often served as intermediaries between God and His people, conveying warnings, prophecies, and instructions. The Old Testament prophets were known for their boldness, unwavering faith, and willingness to speak truth to power. They were often persecuted and faced opposition for their messages, but they remained steadfast in their commitment to God's will.

Attributes of The Old Testament Prophet

• 1. Boldness: The Old Testament prophets were known for their boldness in proclaiming God's messages, even in the face of adversity.
• 2. Unwavering faith: These prophets demonstrated unwavering faith in God, trusting in His guidance and provision.
• 3. Willingness to speak truth to power: The Old Testament prophets were not afraid to confront kings, priests, and other leaders with messages of judgment and repentance.
• 4. Persecution and opposition: Many Old Testament prophets faced persecution and opposition for their messages, but they remained faithful to God's calling.

Background of The New Testament Prophet

In the New Testament, the role of the prophet takes on a slightly different form. While the Old Testament prophets primarily focused on delivering messages of judgment and repentance, the New Testament prophets often emphasized messages of love, grace, and salvation through Jesus Christ. The New Testament prophets were instrumental in spreading the teachings of Jesus and building up the early Christian church.

Attributes of The New Testament Prophet

• 1. Emphasis on love and grace: The New Testament prophets emphasized the love and grace of God, highlighting the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.
• 2. Building up the church: These prophets played a key role in building up the early Christian church, providing guidance, encouragement, and instruction to believers.
• 3. Continuation of prophecy: The New Testament prophets continued the tradition of prophecy, but with a focus on the fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus Christ.
• 4. Spiritual gifts: The New Testament prophets were often associated with spiritual gifts such as prophecy, healing, and speaking in tongues, which were used to edify the church.

Comparison of The Attributes

While both The Old Testament Prophet and The New Testament Prophet were chosen by God to deliver messages to His people, there are distinct differences in their attributes and roles. The Old Testament prophets were known for their boldness, unwavering faith, and willingness to speak truth to power, while the New Testament prophets emphasized love, grace, and building up the church. Both types of prophets faced persecution and opposition for their messages, but they remained faithful to God's calling.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Old Testament Prophet and The New Testament Prophet each played a unique and important role in God's plan for His people. While the Old Testament prophets focused on delivering messages of judgment and repentance, the New Testament prophets emphasized love, grace, and salvation through Jesus Christ. Both types of prophets demonstrated unwavering faith, boldness, and a commitment to speaking God's truth. Their contributions to the biblical narrative continue to inspire and challenge believers today.