The primary ministry of the Old Testament prophets was to speak out on behalf of God to the people of Israel. Through the prophets, God would directly interact with the people to encourage them to lead lives of faith and obedience. The prophets also served as special messengers of God’s will on earth, providing insight into the will of God for his people.
The prophets would often speak words of warning and judgment to the people of Israel against their faithless and disobedient behavior. They would call on God’s people to repent, reminding them of the blessings and curses that come with obedience and disobedience. In addition, the prophets would provide messages of future hope and restoration. They would remind the people of the promises of God’s coming kingdom and God’s plan to restore Israel.
The prophets were also instruments of God’s justice. They spoke words of hope and justice to those living in oppression, lifting up the downtrodden and oppressed. They served as a voice in defense of the vulnerable and needy, demanding protection for those in need of help.
Finally, the prophets were also used by God to provide instruction, wisdom, and comfort to the people of Israel. Many of the books of the Old Testament contain the wisdom of the prophets, and their words still have powerful implications for the faithful today.
In short, the primary ministry of the Old Testament prophets was to speak out on behalf of God to the people of Israel, providing instruction, wisdom, justice, and hope in difficult times.