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The Prophet
'Prophecy Watch' by StaffThe concept of a true Prophet, as outlined in Deuteronomy 18:15-22, is a critical matter for God's people to discern, especially in the context of potential end-time claims. God Himself declares in verse 15 that He will raise up a Prophet like Moses from among the people, whom they must hear. This Prophet speaks God's words in His name, and God warns that whoever refuses to listen will be held accountable by Him. This admonition urges God's people to be vigilant, both in obeying the words of Jesus Christ and in recognizing any potential end-time fulfillment of this Prophet, should such a figure appear. God also provides guidance on distinguishing true prophets from false ones in Deuteronomy 18:20-22. He states that a prophet who speaks presumptuously in His name, without His command, or in the name of other gods, shall face death. To test a prophet's authenticity, God instructs that if a prophecy spoken in His name does not come to pass, it is not from Him, and His people should not fear or obey such a man. This clear criterion helps protect against deception by self-professed prophets. In the scenario of a church leader claiming to be the end-time Prophet of Deuteronomy 18 and urging members to flee to a Place of Safety, such a claim must be weighed against God's standards. If the man's predictions fail to materialize, he reveals himself as a fraud, subject to God's judgment. God's true prophets receive direct instruction from Him, and their prophecies are fulfilled. Therefore, any modern claimant must be scrutinized carefully for evidence of divine communication and the accuracy of their words. God assures His people that He will not act without revealing His plans through His servants, the prophets, as stated in Amos 3:7. Jesus Christ reinforces this by calling His disciples friends, sharing all that He has heard from the Father. This promise instills confidence that God will communicate clearly and orderly, ensuring His people can recognize any true end-time leader He sends, whether a prophet, apostle, or one of the two witnesses, without fear of being deceived or misled.
Was Herbert Armstrong a False Prophet?
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughHerbert Armstrong made scores of predictions, and many of them never came to pass. Does this make him a false prophet? Is he thus not worthy of following?
Prophets and Prophecy (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAlthough by no means a wild man, John the Baptist experienced alienation from people, especially the entrenched religious and political leaders.
What Is a False Prophet?
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeFalse prophets—including the great False Prophet of Revelation—claim to speak for God, yet reveal themselves in predictable ways. Here is what to look for.
Prophets and Prophecy (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughA prophet is one who speaks for God, expressing His will in words and sometimes signs. Standing outside the system, he proclaims God's purpose, including repentance.
The Sixth Century Axial Period (Part One)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)A prophet is one who carries a message from another. A true prophet's message will derive from existing Scripture, even if he is breaking new, unexplored ground.
Elijah and John the Baptist
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughJesus declares that none was greater than His cousin, John, known as 'the Baptist.' Jesus clearly says that John fulfilled the prophesied role of Elijah to come.
The Two Witnesses (Part Six)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Two Witnesses have authority from God to annihilate those who interfere with their work as well as power over weather patterns and natural elements.
Matthew (Part Sixteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughMatthew 11 focuses upon the ruminations of John the Baptist, who, even though he was close to Christ, may have misunderstood the nature of Christ's mission.
Elements of Judgment (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)None of God's law has been 'done away', though there is not always a literal application. Not every law of God has the same weight of importance.
The Pharisees (Part 1)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughHaving their origin in the days of Ezra, the Scribes and Pharisees were extremely zealous for the law, separating themselves for this exclusive purpose.
Deuteronomy (Part 4) (1994)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe must seek God as ardently as we would a physical love relationship, spending quality time with Him. If we make no effort, the relationship cools.
Matthew (Part Eighteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughIf we ask God for protection from demonic influence, we cannot sit back passively; Satan always counterattacks. Evil must be displaced with good.