Westminster Larger Catechism Q&A 44
Q. 44. How does Christ execute the office of a prophet?
A. Christ executes the office of a prophet, in his revealing to the church, in all ages, by his Spirit and word, in divers ways of administration, the whole will of God, in all things concerning their edification and salvation.
Devotional
Title: Christ Our Prophet: Revealing God’s Will
Scripture Reading: Hebrews 1:1-2 (ESV)
“Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world.”
In a world filled with confusion and competing voices, the need for clear and authoritative revelation is critical. God, in His grace, has provided this through Jesus Christ, our ultimate Prophet. Understanding how Christ executes this office can deepen our faith and guide our daily walk with Him.
The Role of a Prophet
A prophet in biblical terms is someone who speaks forth the words of God. Prophets reveal God’s will, call people to repentance, and often provide guidance and encouragement. The Old Testament is replete with prophets who served as God’s mouthpieces, yet all their messages pointed to the ultimate Prophet—Jesus Christ.
Revealing the Will of God
Christ, as our Prophet, reveals to the church the whole will of God. This revelation is comprehensive, encompassing everything we need for our edification and salvation. The writer of Hebrews emphasizes that while God spoke through various prophets in the past, He has now spoken definitively through His Son (Hebrews 1:1-2). Jesus is the fullest and final revelation of God’s will.
By His Spirit and Word
Christ continues to execute His prophetic office through His Spirit and Word. The Holy Spirit, who inspired the Scriptures, illuminates our hearts and minds to understand and apply God’s Word. Jesus promised that the Spirit would guide us into all truth (John 16:13). Thus, as we read and meditate on the Scriptures, the Spirit reveals the will of God to us.
Moreover, Jesus Himself is the living Word. John 1:14 declares, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” In Jesus, we see the embodiment of God’s message. His life, teachings, death, and resurrection reveal God’s redemptive plan.
In Divers Ways of Administration
Christ’s prophetic ministry is not limited to a single method. Throughout history, He has used various means to communicate His will—direct revelation, visions, dreams, the written Word, and the preaching of the Gospel. Each of these administrations serves the same purpose: to edify the church and ensure our salvation.
Today, one of the primary ways Christ continues to reveal His will is through the faithful preaching and teaching of His Word. Pastors and teachers, empowered by the Holy Spirit, expound the Scriptures, helping us to grow in knowledge and obedience. As Ephesians 4:11-12 states, Christ gave these gifts “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.”
Application: Listen and Obey
As we reflect on Christ’s role as our Prophet, let us commit to listening attentively to His voice. This involves regular engagement with the Scriptures, prayerful dependence on the Holy Spirit, and active participation in a community of believers where God’s Word is faithfully proclaimed.
Consider These Questions:
- How often do you seek God’s will through His Word? Make it a daily habit to read and meditate on the Scriptures, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide and instruct you.
- Are you open to the various ways Christ might be speaking to you? Be attentive to the preaching and teaching of God’s Word in your church, and be open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in your personal life.
- Do you respond in obedience to the revealed will of God? It’s not enough to hear God’s Word; we must also be doers of the Word (James 1:22). Ask God for the grace to obey His commands and to live according to His revealed will.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, we thank You for being our ultimate Prophet, revealing the will of God for our edification and salvation. Help us to listen attentively to Your Word, to rely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and to obey Your commands. Equip us to grow in knowledge and holiness, and empower us to share Your truth with others. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.
May this devotional encourage you to trust in Christ’s prophetic ministry and to diligently seek His will through His Word and Spirit.