Holy Spirit’s Relation to the Gift

In the history of the people and events of the Mosaic dispensation, the prophetic gift occupies a very prominent place. From the record of its manifold operations we learn much regarding its purpose. Its great value to the human family is made clear. Here for the first time in the Sacred Narrative the important truth is disclosed that the Spirit of God is inseparably and actively connected with the bestowal and the operations of the prophetic gift. Thus we read:AGP 50.3

“The Lord came down in a cloud, and spake unto him [Moses], and took of the Spirit that was upon him, and gave it unto the seventy elders: and it came to pass, that, when the Spirit rested upon them, they prophesied, and did not cease. But there remained two of the men in the camp, the name of the one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad: and the Spirit rested upon them, … and they prophesied in the camp.” Numbers 11:25, 26.

When this was reported to Moses, he said: “Would God that all the Lord’s people were prophets, and that the Lord would put His Spirit upon them.” Verse 29. This statement recognizes, therefore, the fundamental truth regarding the relation of the divine Spirit to the prophetic gift. Let us note a few outstanding instances of its operation:AGP 50.4

When the prophet Samuel told Saul that the Lord had chosen him to be king over Israel, Samuel said to him: “When thou art departed from me, …the Spirit of the Lord will come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy…. And the Spirit of God came upon him, and he prophesied.” 1 Samuel 10:2-10.AGP 51.1

Again, when Elijah was about to be translated, he said unto Elisha, “Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee.” 2 Kings 2:9. This was as much as to say, Elisha, I am now going to our Father in heaven. I shall soon be in His presence. What request shall I make to Him for you? Elisha answered, “I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me.” To this earnest request Elijah said, “Thou hast asked a hard thing: nevertheless, if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee.” 2 Kings 2:9, 10. Elisha obtained his desire. His request was granted, and through the Spirit’s leadership and power, he became a great blessing to God’s people.AGP 51.2