Ongoing prophetic gifts; Spirit speaks today; secondary to Scripture; tested by Word
The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel, as a Pentecostal denomination, affirms that the Holy Spirit continues to speak to the Church today through prophetic gifts and utterances. Prophecy is among the gifts of the Spirit that continue to operate in the Church. However, all contemporary revelation is understood as subject to the authority of Scripture — prophecy must be tested against the Word of God and cannot add new doctrine or contradict biblical teaching.
The Church distinguishes between Scripture (the complete written Word) and the ongoing voice of the Spirit (prophetic utterance and guidance). Contemporary revelation is derivative and subordinate to Scripture. Prophetic utterances are evaluated by their conformity to Scripture, the fruit of the Spirit, and the discernment of the Church community. The principle is that the Spirit does not contradict the Word of God.
Key Distinctions
- Current revelation:
- prophecy tested by Scripture, fruit of the Spirit, and community discernment
- Prophetic gifts today:
- prophecy recognized as legitimate spiritual gift; not ceased
Scripture References
Sources
- International Church of the Foursquare Gospel Declaration of Faith on spiritual gifts
- Foursquare Church teaching on prophecy and the Holy Spirit's ongoing work