Our mission as prophets – a how-to-guide

“But the Lord said to me: ‘Do not say, “I am a youth,” for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak.’”” This was the Bible text that Chief Apostle Jean-Luc Schneider used on 12 February 2017 in Kulmbach in the southern part of Germany. The following summary is a collection of quotations from the divine service.

Jeremiah had been called as a prophet. What was his mission?

Like many prophets, he was to announce the will of God. He was to warn the people to stay away from idolatry and admonish them to return to the true God.

So what does that have to do with us?

The prophet had special insight into God’s will to save, what we today call God’s plan of salvation. God has sealed us with His Spirit and has revealed the mystery of His will to us (see Ephesians 1: 3–13). Everyone baptised with the Spirit, every child of God is called upon to serve as a prophet.

Where are we supposed to do that?

Now, here, today! In our society, in our time, there where God has put us. In the circumstances in which we live: young, old, sick, healthy, rich, poor—wherever!

What are we supposed to do?

• To proclaim the will of God: the Ten Commandments, the law of love. These are the principles that guide us. People are to perceive these in our lives, in our behaviour.
• Draw attention to the dangers of idol worship: when we violate the laws of God for money or our own ego.
• To make the salvation of God known: show people that the way to this salvation is Jesus Christ. Let us also draw people’s attention to the present offer of salvation: “Come with me, I know the place where living Apostles are active!”

Of all people, why should I do that?

Because God has granted us salvation. Because Jesus Christ died precisely for you!

Who am I to perform this service??

This is not about what you think of your skills. This is about being aware: “God has given me a mission.”

For heaven’s sake, if I tell them that, they are not going to like it …

The prophet received the answer from the Lord: “It will not be easy, but don’t be afraid. I am with you!”

Yeah, but what is the point of all this? People do not even notice it!

Our mission is not to change the world. Our mission is to set an example: it is doable; we are going to make an effort.

I cannot do this alone!

We are part of a community of brothers and sisters. One helps the other. That is how we can do it!

This is the call of God through the Holy Spirit! God has elected us. He has sealed us with His Spirit. He has introduced us into the mysteries of His plan of salvation. Now He expects from us that we demonstrate: this is the will of God; this is how you should do it! You will see, everything will be better, and you will be blessed.