Basics of a Prophet: Casting Out Unclean Spirits and Prophecy
Written on 23 July 2025.
Basics of a Prophet: Casting Out Unclean Spirits and Prophecy
Introduction
A prophet in the biblical sense is a person called and chosen by God to deliver His messages, often involving warning, correction, or the revealing of spiritual truth. The power to cast out unclean spirits—even from a distance—is part of the prophet's ministry, along with speaking forth prophecy by the Spirit of God.
Definition and Calling
A prophet does not act in their own strength, but is moved by the Holy Ghost to speak as commanded. The words spoken by a prophet must align with the written Word of God (KJV). True prophets do not seek personal glory, but point all attention to the Lord.
For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
– 2 Peter 1:21 [KJV]
Prophecy
Prophecy involves speaking forth God's message—which may include foretelling future events, giving warnings, or providing encouragement and direction. The core of prophecy is faithfulness to the truth of God’s Word, and not all prophecy involves future prediction.
But if they had stood in my counsel, and had caused my people to hear my words, then they should have turned them from their evil way, and from the evil of their doings.
– Jeremiah 23:22 [KJV]
Authority Over Unclean Spirits
Jesus Christ granted His followers authority over unclean spirits. This authority applies to all believers (Mark 16:17), but is especially evident in the life and ministry of prophets. Distance does not limit God’s power: Jesus Himself healed and delivered from afar by His word alone.
Scripture Example:
And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him. The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed... And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.
– Matthew 8:7–13 [KJV]
Practical Steps for Casting Out Spirits (Even from a Distance)
- Discern by the Holy Ghost if an unclean spirit is present.
- Pray in faith in the name of Jesus Christ, commanding the spirit to depart.
- Distance is no obstacle: Pray even if the person is not physically present; God’s power is not limited by space.
- Stand on the Word: Your authority comes from Christ, not yourself.
Warnings and Safeguards
- Do not prophesy from your own imagination (see Ezekiel 13:2–3).
- Test every spirit (1 John 4:1), as not every supernatural manifestation is from God.
- All actions and words must be subject to Scripture.
Conclusion
A true prophet:
- Is called by God and led by the Holy Ghost.
- Prophesies faithfully according to the Word.
- Has authority in Christ to cast out unclean spirits, even at a distance.
- Seeks only God’s glory, never personal gain.