Prophets

The Role and Relevance of Prophets in Modern Christianity

In a recent episode of “Heart of the Matter,” host Shawn McCraney delved into the topic of prophets and apostles, particularly within the context of the LDS Church. The discussion was sparked by a question from last week: “Why do we need a prophet today if God sent His Holy Spirit to be with all who believe?” This question led to an exploration of the role and necessity of prophets in modern times.

Shawn highlighted the LDS Church’s emphasis on following the prophet, a concept deeply ingrained in its teachings and culture. He questioned whether the Bible supports the idea of prophets like Moses and Elijah continuing to lead the Body of Christ after Jesus’ resurrection. Shawn argued that the role of prophets, as understood in the Old Testament, was fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who now serves as the ultimate prophet, priest, and king.

The episode also examined common LDS justifications for having modern-day prophets, such as the interpretation of Amos 3:5 and Ephesians 4:11. Shawn challenged these interpretations, suggesting that they often rely on selective and literal readings of scripture. He emphasized the importance of understanding biblical passages in their full context.

Shawn concluded by asserting that the Holy Spirit and the Word are sufficient guides for believers today, negating the need for a human intermediary. He encouraged viewers to focus on Jesus as the sole mediator between God and humanity, urging a shift away from reliance on modern prophets. The episode invited further discussion and questions from the audience, promising a continued exploration of these theological themes.