Types, Tests, and Shelves for Prophetic Words
At Wellspring, we believe in and practice the gift of prophecy. Therefore, you might receive a prophetic word from someone. Scripture commands us to test prophecies (1 Thess 5:20-22, 1 Cor 14:29) to distinguish genuine God-given messages from self-generated ones.
The video below explains the types of words you might receive from someone, how to test those words, and what to do with each type of word while you’re testing them. If you don’t have 15 minutes to watch the video, the synopsis is below it, and the full paper from which the video was made is below that.
Synopsis of Types, Tests, and Shelves…
Types of Prophetic Words
Words of Knowledge - Supernaturally revealed information about people or situations
Future-telling Words - Announcements of God's future plans through divine revelation
Instructive Words - Specific direction or guidance for individuals or groups
Tests for Prophetic Words
Alignment with Scripture - Must not contradict biblical truth
Wise Counsel - Submit to community discernment and leadership input
Voice of God/Internal Testimony - Should align with God's character (peace, sound mind, not fear)
Confirmation Test - Seeking additional validation through signs or circumstances
The Three-Shelf Model for Processing Prophetic Words
Top Shelf - Words with immediate confirmation or clear divine markers. This word is not binding on you, but you may choose to start taking steps in the direction of a word like this.
Second Shelf - Words requiring prayer and testing. Perhaps this word feels or seems like it is from God. Therefore, a good next step for this word is to actively seek council and confirmations.
Third Shelf - Words that don't currently resonate or that lack clear confirmation. This word seems to have little to do with you, so you may not feel any
Remember: Even "Top Shelf" words should undergo testing and aren't automatically binding. The goal is building up the church through careful, responsible prophetic ministry.