Over the course of my studies in scribal ministry, I’ve noticed that there are numerous misconceptions about prophetic writing. While I’ve written about some of these in the past, I am adding a few more to our on-going list. I pray that they bless you and bring further clarity to understanding “prophetic writing” which is just one of the gifts of the prophetic scribe. Also, check out this five minute infographic: Am I a prophetic writer?
1. Myth: I’m a prophetic writer so I can write anything. Not necessarily! Some prophetic writers are only appointed in a “specific area” of prophetic writing. For example, writing prophecy, writing poetry, monologues or exhortation by urgency and command. Outside of this, the anointing lifts. There are some “prophetic writers” who are called only to one specific area. This doesn’t mean they won’t write other things, but it does mean that they do not “specialize” in all kinds of writing. Over the years, I’ve met many prophetic writers who write amazing poetry and songs, but they are unskilled as “prophetic” novelists, essayists, script writers, etc. There is absolutely no “prophetic release” in those writing. Even writing their own testimonies is a challenge in the craft and assistance is needed to break through.
2. Myth: Prophetic writing is about being a good writer. NO! What makes a prophetic writer a “prophetic” writer is that the they are COMMANDED OR URGED by the Spirit to place a prophetic message in written form. This is what makes the gift unique. The “act and command” to write as the primary vehicle to deliver the message is what makes a “prophetic writer” a “prophetic writer.” Being called to “deliver” the message in this format does not guarantee that a person is a good writer. Training may be required — even in the creative arena.
I AM Extending the Marshal’s Staff
I AM Extending The “Marshal’s Staff” Received November 29, 2017
Insight Before the Prophetic Word
The poem of the judge (scribe, officer) and prophet Deborah and the warrior Barak highlighted Israel’s victory over the Canaanites during one of the most tumultuous times in ancient biblical history. In the poem they sang (Judges 5), they listed the warriors responsible for Israel’s victory. Among them were a devout, royal group who carried the “commander’s staff” or the “marshal’s staff.”
The passage states, “The survivors came down to the nobles; the LORD’s people came down to meet with the warriors. Those with their roots in Amalek came from Ephraim; Benjamin came with your people after you. The leaders came down from Machir and those who carry a marshal’s staff came from Zebulun.” Judges 5:13-14
Scholars note that these commanders or marshals represented the lawgivers of that day (judges who were also scribes) who were responsible for the governmental task of engraving, recording and heralding historical victories. Most modern translations of the scripture have reworded this passage, losing its original, authentic translation. Strong historical study, however, brings it back into context thanks to the scribal scholars who value biblical historical accuracy.
Was Silas (also called Silvanus) the prophet and exhorter a scribe? (2)
Copyright 2017 Theresa Harvard Johnson
1 Peter 5:12, “WITH THE HELP OF SILAS, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I HAVE WRITTEN TO YOU briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God.”
The phrase “WITH THE HELP OF SILAS” would probably have indicated that Silas was dictating the Apostle Peter’s words as he spoke. He would have served as an amaneusis or literary helper in modern language usage or a scribe in traditional scholarly study. Although Silas was Peter’s brother in the Lord, he was accompanying him on a mission trip and would have assisted the senior apostle, as was protocol in that time. We know this by observation and references to Silas’ interactions with the apostles through scripture.
Dictation was a common practice in the early church – not only among scribes, but prophets. Many published letters were ghostwritten, as we understand it today. While Silas may not have walked in the “office of a scribe,” it is clear in this small passage that he was equipped in the craft – which would have required formal training, perhaps in a scribe school.
Was Silas (also called Silvanus) the prophet and exhorter a scribe?
Copyright 2017 Theresa Harvard Johnson
1 Peter 5:12, “WITH THE HELP OF SILAS, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I HAVE WRITTEN TO YOU briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God.”
The phrase “WITH THE HELP OF SILAS” would probably have indicated that Silas was dictating the Apostle Peter’s words as he spoke. He would have served as an amaneusis or literary helper in modern language usage or a scribe in traditional scholarly study. Although Silas was Peter’s brother in the Lord, he was accompanying him on a mission trip and would have assisted the senior apostle, as was protocol in that time. We know this by observation and references to Silas’ interactions with the apostles through scripture.
Dictation was a common practice in the early church – not only among scribes, but prophets. Many published letters were ghostwritten, as we understand it today. While Silas may not have walked in the “office of a scribe,” it is clear in this small passage that he was equipped in the craft – which would have required formal training, perhaps in a scribe school.
Prophetic Word: Resurgence of New Technologies in Scribal Ministry
Released Oct. 31, 2017Theresa Harvard Johnson In the coming season, Beloved, expect a resurgence in new technologies among my prophetic scribes. New codes (computer) and applications will be written to revolutionize critical aspects of the Kingdom – especially as it relates to the finance arena, and the advancement of the Gospel via social media. These…