QUESTION:

The prophets often said, “The Word of the Lord came to me.” What does that mean?

ANSWER:

When a prophet says, “The Word of the Lord came to me,” it means that God Himself has communicated a specific message to that person. This phrase occurs repeatedly throughout the Old Testament, especially in books like Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and the Minor Prophets (e.g., Jonah, Hosea, Amos).

This communication can take different forms — such as visions (Numbers 12:6), dreams (Joel 2:28), audible voices (1 Samuel 3:4–10), angelic visitations (Luke 1:11–13), or direct inspiration by the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:21). Regardless of the method, the key point is this: God is the source of the message, and the prophet is simply the messenger.

2 Peter 1:20–21 (ESV):
“…no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

Biblical Context

When you read a phrase like “The Word of the Lord came to Isaiah” (Isaiah 38:4), or “…to Jeremiah” (Jeremiah 1:4), or “…to Jonah” (Jonah 1:1), it signifies a moment when God initiated communication with the prophet. These moments were not casual experiences. They were sacred appointments where divine instruction was given, often for the benefit of others, not just the prophet himself.

This still happens today, although not necessarily in the exact prophetic form as in the Old Testament. According to Hebrews 1:1–2, God primarily speaks to us today through His Son Jesus Christ and His written Word.

Hebrews 1:1–2 (NKJV):
“God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son…”

So, when someone today says “God spoke to me,” it must always be tested against Scripture (1 John 4:1), because God’s Word never contradicts the Bible. Also, when someone is moved by a strong conviction to evangelize, preach, or minister to others — especially when it aligns with Scripture — that can also be understood as the Word of God “coming” to them.

Mark 16:15 (NKJV):
“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.”

When this verse speaks to your heart in a deep, personal way, that is one example of how God’s Word comes to you with purpose and mission.

Theological Implication

Receiving the Word of the Lord comes with responsibility and accountability. The prophet Ezekiel was given a powerful warning: if God gives you a message to deliver and you fail to deliver it, you become responsible for the consequences.

Ezekiel 3:17–20 (NKJV):
“Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; therefore hear a word from My mouth, and give them warning from Me…”

This shows that when God entrusts someone with His Word, obedience is not optional. Whether it is a direct revelation, or a deep prompting based on Scripture, God expects His people to act on His instructions.

This principle also appears in the New Testament:

James 1:22 (NIV):
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”

Just like Jonah was disciplined for trying to flee from God’s call (Jonah 1:3–4), believers today must take seriously any calling, leading, or burden the Lord places on their hearts. Disobedience doesn’t just hinder our spiritual walk — it can also affect the lives of those God intended to reach through us.

Conclusion

In summary, when the Bible says “The Word of the Lord came to…”, it means God revealed a message that required faithfulness and action. Today, God still speaks through His written Word, through His Spirit, and through circumstances aligned with His truth. When His Word comes to you — whether by Scripture, calling, or conviction — respond with obedience, faith, and reverence.