There are a few ambiguities as we examine the role of prophets and prophecy in both the Old and New Testaments.
One such case is Agabus, the New Testament prophet mentioned in the Book of Acts, who presents an intriguing case study on the nature of prophetic ministry in the early church and its implications for today.
He is an interesting character to consider because, as the Church grows post-Pentecost, he is the first to be mentioned not just as a prophetic person but as a prophet. Philip’s daughters are not introduced to us as prophets but as those who prophesied. Perhaps, reading between the lines, this was being inferred—that they were prophets; however, Agabus is intentionally mentioned as a prophet. Acts 11:27–28 and Acts 21:10–11 provide us with the storyline that contains interesting theological and practical issues. It certainly raises the question, “What about Agabus?” There are a few “What abouts” that are worth considering, so this is the first.
Agabus makes his first dramatic appearance, much like Elijah (seemingly out of nowhere), in Acts 11:27–28, where he predicts a great famine “over all the world,” which was fulfilled during the reign of Claudius. There is no controversy or dispute over his prophecy; instead, the early Christians take action based on his warning—Agabus’s prophecy was accurate and well-received. In modern language, it was a “Kaboom!” drop-the-mic moment.
Ten chapters later, in Acts 21:10–11, Agabus reappears, this time delivering a prophetic word to Paul. In a prophetic drama (reminiscent of the Old Testament prophets), Agabus binds his own hands and feet with Paul’s belt and declares, “Thus says the Holy Spirit, ‘This is how the Jews at Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.'” The story rapidly progresses, and the reader is watching for another dramatic fulfilment…
This prophecy has sparked a number of conversations in the commentaries, particularly regarding its fulfilment. When Paul is arrested in Jerusalem, the events unfold somewhat differently: while Paul is indeed seized by the Jews, it is the Roman authorities, not the Jews, who physically bind him and take him into custody. What is going on?
Did Agabus Get It Right or Wrong?
The question of whether Agabus got the prophecy “right” hinges on how one interprets the nature of prophetic revelation. Some argue that Agabus was mistaken in the details, suggesting that he misinterpreted or over-interpreted the vision he received. This perspective might hold that Agabus correctly perceived the general outcome—that Paul would face severe opposition in Jerusalem—but was not accurate in the specifics of how it would unfold.
There is a teaching that has been around for a number of years now that speaks of revelation, interpretation, and application. It’s helpful on one hand, but I do not think it is helpful here. My guess is that Agabus was known well enough and had credibility with the apostles, and certainly, we know nothing of his character, humility, or personality—what we do know is that he knew how to hear God and that God had used him to convey His will previously.
I doubt that Agabus had only ever given two words; he would more likely have been a source of great encouragement in the life of the growing and thriving church. But on this day, a word was shared. A period of time passes, events unfold, and nothing is said about the prophecy, but we do get to look in and ponder.
A balanced understanding recognises that biblical prophecy, particularly in the New Testament, often does so with a scope of symbolism and imagery rather than precise predictions. As an aside, there are some ministries today who have misunderstood the role of prophecy and whose emphasis is merely (and literally!) on predictions—they also take considerable time after an event to tell the world that they got the prediction right, but those ‘predictions’ do not point to Christ or a renewed, invigorated walk with God in faith, love, and obedience. This is not the case with Agabus.
Agabus’s actions—binding himself with Paul’s belt—are reminiscent of Old Testament prophetic acts that were deeply symbolic. For instance, the prophets Jeremiah and Ezekiel often performed symbolic actions that communicated God’s message through vivid imagery rather than literal, detailed predictions. Definitely, God is speaking—something of considerable importance is going to happen to Paul. Unlike Elijah, or many of the Old Testament prophets, Agabus knew about grace and the atoning work of Christ that transforms lives.
From this perspective, Agabus’s prophecy was ‘essentially’ accurate: it conveyed the core truth that Paul would face severe opposition and be handed over to Gentile authorities. The seeming discrepancy in the details may not be an error but rather a reflection of the symbolic nature of the prophetic act. The Jews initiated Paul’s arrest, and though the Romans physically bound him, the prophecy’s essential message—that Paul would be restrained and handed over—remained true.
Agabus’s prophecy and the necessary discussion it provokes invite us to reflect on the nature of prophetic ministry today, particularly within charismatic traditions that emphasise the ongoing role of prophecy in the church. Several points of interest and value emerge:
- Prophetic words may involve a mixture of divine revelation and human interpretation. The imagery and symbolism that often accompany prophecy require discernment. Just as Agabus used dramatic imagery to communicate a divine message, modern prophetic ministry may also involve symbolic actions or visions that are not always meant to be taken literally. Hence the importance of humility and caution in interpreting prophetic words. Did Agabus leave the sprint-starting block too early and not give enough time to wait on God for just exactly what the prophecy meant?
- The early church did not reject Agabus’s prophecy despite its potential ambiguities. Instead, they responded to it as a community, weighing it and discerning its implications. This practice of communal discernment remains crucial today. No prophecy should be accepted uncritically; rather, it should be tested against Scripture, spiritual wisdom, and the broader counsel of church leadership.
- Prophecy and Suffering: Agabus’s prophecy concerning Paul highlights a recurring theme in the New Testament—prophetic words often prepare believers for suffering rather than deliverance from it. This contrasts with some modern interpretations of prophecy, which tend to focus on prosperity and success. The church must be reminded that true prophecy often aligns with the cross-shaped life that Jesus calls His followers to embrace.
- The Role of the Prophet: Agabus’s ministry demonstrates that prophets are not infallible, yet their ministry is vital. They serve as God’s messengers, warning, guiding, and sometimes offering a perspective that others might not see. Even if the specifics of a prophetic word are not perfectly clear, the general message can still be profoundly significant.
Modern Parallels and Caution
In contemporary settings, it is not uncommon to encounter instances where prophetic words seem unclear or are interpreted differently than expected. Like Agabus, modern prophets might receive genuine revelation but struggle to articulate it accurately or interpret it fully. This does not necessarily discredit their ministry but highlights the need for ongoing discernment, prayer, and accountability within the church.
Perhaps the important thing for us is that Agabus gives us a good reason to carefully consider the full spectrum of prophetic ministry in our time. Certainly, Agabus is not chided, challenged, or rebuked—sometimes we just don’t have the answers. What we do know is that Agabus loves, respects, and honours Paul. Agabus was being obedient to the way that he sensed the Spirit of God was leading.
We must also avoid the temptation to demand that prophetic words conform to our expectations or desires. Prophecy should always be measured against the truth of Scripture and the character of God, recognising that its purpose is to edify, encourage, and sometimes challenge the church rather than to provide detailed predictions.
So, what about Agabus?
Agabus serves as a profound example of the complexity and depth of prophetic ministry and the need for maturity in what God is saying, doing, and revealing. While his prophecy concerning Paul might appear adrift or even mistaken at first glance, a closer examination reveals a faithful and significant prophetic witness.
His ministry reminds us of the importance of discernment, humility, and the recognition that God often speaks through symbols and imagery that require careful interpretation. As the church continues to navigate the gifts of the Spirit today, the story of Agabus invites us to approach prophecy with both openness and caution, always seeking to align it with the broader narrative of God’s redemptive work in Christ.
We certainly need to encourage those who have been emboldened by the Holy Spirit to step out in faith and obedience to equip the Church in this challenging hour.
