To maintain proper protocol with decency and order, we require that all prophetic ministry be conducted only in the presence and under the direction of our pastors or assigned leaders.
The reason for this policy is two-fold. First, we record all prophetic utterances for the blessing of the person receiving ministry, as well as protection for the one who is ministering. Unrecorded prophecies are subject to each person’s remembrance concerning what was said and the context and spirit in which the word was ministered. Often when receiving a prophecy we hear what we need or want, not what was actually said.
Secondly, we are responsible to ensure that all ministry is effective and ministered in the proper spirit. We want to evaluate and witness to all personal ministry to ensure people are not misled, or do not respond improperly to their prophetic word.
“Parking Lot Prophecies” are those given from one person to another without spiritual leadership being present to provide covering for both the person ministering and those receiving ministry. Therefore, please understand that prophesying to others you may encounter at Destiny Spirit Church without permission from our leadership is prohibited. It is erroneous to think that if one senses a word that they must give it, as the “spirit of the prophet is subject to the prophet” 1 Cor.14:32.
We encourage you to submit the word(s) you have received to those with whom you have an accountable relationship. Often our pastor will be able to provide caring input into our lives with regard to the prophecy we receive, particularly in regards to the timing of certain words being fulfilled.
It should be noted that personal prophecy does not replace the need for pastoral counsel and oversight, nor does receiving a valid, genuine word from the Lord give one license to become independent or spiritually superior. Prophecy is one way we can know the will of God. Pastoral counsel is another, complementary way; the two should flow together.
For more in-depth teaching and biblical understanding of prophetic ministry, we recommend reading “Prophets and Personal Prophecy” by Dr. Bill Hamon.