Rules for New Covenant Prophecy

He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you.
— John 16:14

Prophecy for Today: A New Covenant Perspective

Prophecy is not a relic of the past; it is very much alive and active today. However, as New Covenant believers, we must receive and give prophetic words within the parameters established by Jesus and the apostles. To do this, the best foundation for understanding prophecy is Jesus' teachings about the Holy Spirit. Prophecy, along with words of wisdom and words of knowledge, are gifts or graces of the Spirit. It only makes sense to view these gifts through the lens of how our Lord described the ministry of the Spirit.

Jesus’ Teaching on the Holy Spirit: A Framework for Prophecy

When Jesus taught about the Holy Spirit in John chapters 14-16, He described an intimate relationship where believers can expect dialogue and personal interaction with the Spirit. One of the key points Jesus emphasized is this:

The Holy Spirit will take what belongs to Jesus and make it known to us.

This truth is transformational. As joint heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17), everything that belongs to Jesus is also ours. The Holy Spirit’s role includes declaring to us what is ours in Christ—our inheritance, our promises, and our identity in the New Covenant. This foundational truth is vital for understanding the purpose and operation of prophecy and other revelatory gifts.

What We Can Expect from the Holy Spirit (Based on Jesus' Words in John 14-16)

  1. He will give us another Helper who will abide with us forever. (John 14:16)

  2. He is the Spirit of truth, who dwells with us and will be in us. (John 14:17)

  3. He will teach us all things. (John 14:26)

  4. He will bring to our remembrance everything Jesus said. (John 14:26)

  5. He will testify about Jesus. (John 15:26)

  6. He will convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. (John 16:8)

  7. He will guide us into all truth. (John 16:13)

  8. He will tell us things to come. (John 16:13)

  9. He will glorify Jesus by taking what belongs to Him and declaring it to us. (John 16:14)

  10. He will reveal to us all that the Father has given to Jesus. (John 16:15)

These functions and attributes of the Holy Spirit can and should serve are guides for giving and receiving words today.

Operating in the Revelatory Gifts

When we operate in the gifts of the Spirit—specifically prophecy, words of wisdom, and words of knowledge—we should emulate the ministry of the Holy Spirit as described by Jesus. Just as the Holy Spirit declares what is ours in Christ, so should prophecy affirm these truths to build others up in their identity and inheritance in Him.

Similarly, when we receive prophetic words, we must apply this principle as a filter. Not every word should be received wholesale just because the person delivering it seems accurate or credible. Instead, we should ask:

  • Does this word affirm what is mine in Christ?

  • Does it align with the New Covenant?

  • Does it reflect the ministry of the Holy Spirit as described by Jesus?

By doing so, we safeguard our hearts and keep prophetic ministry aligned with its New Covenant purpose.

Paul’s Teaching on Prophecy

The apostle Paul provides further clarity on the nature of prophecy in the New Covenant. He states that all prophecy should edify, exhort, and comfort (1 Corinthians 14:3). This means that prophecy should:

  1. Build us up: Strengthening our faith and encouraging us in our walk with Christ.

  2. Exhort us: Inspiring us to action and deeper devotion.

  3. Comfort us: Bringing consolation and peace in times of trouble.

Prophecy that tears down, condemns, or instills fear is not operating in the spirit of the New Covenant. Instead, prophecy should reflect the heart of Jesus and the grace of the Spirit.

The Testimony of Jesus is the Spirit of Prophecy

Revelation 19:10 declares, “The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” This profound statement means that the spirit in which we prophesy should always point to Jesus. Prophecy can reveal the future, provide specific details, or offer insight, but it must ultimately testify of Jesus. It should affirm His finished work and what is ours in Him because of the New Covenant. This focus on Jesus brings clarity, hope, and assurance, reminding us that we are secure in His promises.

Practical Application for Today

As New Covenant believers, here are a few principles to guide us in giving and receiving prophetic words:

  1. Focus on Jesus: Ensure that all prophecy points to Him, affirms His work, and reveals our inheritance in Christ.

  2. Edify, Exhort, and Comfort: Use prophecy to build others up, strengthen their faith, and bring encouragement.

  3. Filter Words Through the New Covenant: Evaluate prophetic words to ensure they align with the truths of the New Covenant and the ministry of the Holy Spirit.

  4. Rely on the Holy Spirit: Remember that the gifts are manifestations of the Spirit working through us, not personal abilities we own.

By applying these principles, we keep prophecy grounded in its New Covenant purpose and reflect the heart of Jesus in our ministry. The gifts of the Spirit, including prophecy, are expressions of God’s grace, given to strengthen the Body of Christ and glorify Jesus. Let us steward them well and use them to point others to the fullness of life in Him.


Clint Byars

Believer, Husband, Father