Old Testament Prophets
Old Testament PROPHETS were often criticized, ostracized, never popular, despised, rejected and treated with fierce opposition and disdain for several reasons.
They Call for Repentance:
Prophets frequently delivered messages of warning and rebuke, calling people to repentance and obedience to God’s commandments.
Their messages often challenged the moral and religious practices of the people, which could be met with resistance or hostility from those who were unwilling to change their ways.
They Denounced Idolatry:
Old Testament prophets condemned the worship of false gods and idols, which were prevalent practices in ancient Israel and neighboring nations.
Their critique of idolatry threatened the religious establishment and the interests of those who benefited from idol worship, leading to opposition from religious leaders and adherents of pagan religions.
They Openly Critiqued and Spoke Against Injustices:
Prophets frequently spoke out against social injustice, oppression, and exploitation of the poor and vulnerable.
Their advocacy for righteousness and social equality often put them at odds with corrupt rulers, wealthy elites, and those who benefited from the status quo.
They Rejected False Prophecy:
In addition to authentic prophets, there were also false prophets who claimed to speak on behalf of God but delivered messages that were contrary to HIS WILL.
True prophets often clashed with false prophets, exposing their deceit and challenging their influence, which could lead to resentment and hostility.
Their Messages Were Unpopular:
Prophets sometimes delivered messages that were unpopular or difficult for people to accept or even understand with their carnal mindsets.
This could include predictions of impending judgment, warnings of exile or destruction, or calls for sacrifices and obedience that required significant personal or communal change.
Perceived Threats to Authority Figures:
Prophets’ messages of divine authority and accountability challenged the authority of kings, priests, and other leaders both in the world and church.
Their role as messengers of God’s word often clashed with the interests of those in positions of power, leading to attempts to suppress or discredit their messages.
In spite of the ridicule, persecution and opposition, these who were God’s Mouthpieces on earth had no choice but to deliver the Messages in all boldness and power, courage and conviction, upholding righteousness and speaking truth even in the face of adversity.
Shalom
~ Syreeta Thomas
Here at HKP a very good summary about the signs of a true prophet, it has been published 2 times. I forgot the original author, but it is worth to search for it.
Not only in times of the Old Testament was a true prophet avoided or rejected, or worse than that. Throughout history, until today, most religious people – JESUS called them hypocrits and pharisees, do not want to listen to a messenger who boldly speaks GOD’s WORD of truth, justice and righteousness. Some / many people do not want to see the love that it inside and behind this hard work. If you did not attend Bible College, you don’t get much respect from church “Christ-ians”. I tell this without bitterness, dear brothers and sisters. An example: That lonesome prophetess ANNA knew more than all others.