Guidelines To Help You Navigate Bible Prophecy:
Understand the Bible’s Authority:
Recognize that the Bible is God’s inspired Word written by man from the Holy Spirit. You should approach prophecy with reverence and humility. While different schools of thought exist, and always will, conservative scholars regard the Bible as authoritative and infallible.
Consider Historical and Cultural Context:
Prophecies were given in specific contexts so you should study the historical background, cultural nuances, and language of the time. Also ask yourself: What did this mean to the original audience? How does it apply today?
Recognize Different Genres:
Prophecy appears in various forms: apocalyptic, poetic, and narrative that each has distinct features. Understanding symbolism, metaphors, and allegory makes it much easier.
Literal vs. Symbolic Interpretation:
Some prophecies are meant to be taken literally (e.g., Jesus’ first coming). Others are symbolic (e.g., Revelation’s prophetic beasts). Context and genre can guide your learning.
Focus on Christ:
All prophecy points to Jesus Christ, and He fulfills Old Testament prophecies so look for Messianic references and how they find fulfillment in Christ.
Use Scripture to Interpret Scripture:
Let the Bible interpret itself, and compare related passages. You will want to cross-reference prophecies and consider their cumulative impact. Prophecy reveals what God wants us to know so avoid excessive speculation or dogmatism, and be open to mystery and recognize that some details remain hidden on purpose.
Stay Humble and Teachable:
Prophecy can be complex so you need to be willing to adjust your understanding as you learn. You should also engage with other true believers and learn from their insights. Remember that interpreting prophecy is both an art and a science. As you delve into this rich and unusual area of scripture, seek God’s wisdom and trust that He reveals what is necessary for your faith, hope and redemption.
Testing The Authenticity Of Any Biblical Prophecy Is Essential To Discern Whether It Truly Originates From God.
Here are some practical guidelines to help you evaluate prophetic utterances:
Conform to God’s Word:
The revealed Word of God (Scripture) serves as the ultimate standard, and any prophecy must align with what the Bible teaches. As the Apostle John advises, “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1). If any prophecies (biblical or otherwise) contradicts scripture, it cannot be from God.
Testify to Jesus:
True prophecy magnifies Jesus Christ and the essence of prophecy is to reveal Jesus. Revelation 19:10 states, “For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” If a prophecy doesn’t exalt Jesus or denies His divinity, it should raise suspicion and be considered a false prophecy.
Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.
1 Thessalonians 5:15
Moral Consistency:
Consider the moral character of the one delivering the prophecy. Is their life consistent with godly principles? Jesus warned about false prophets, saying, “You will know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:15-16). Both the doctrine and the lifestyle of the prophet matter
Prophecies should be evaluated by learned biblical teachers or experts in biblical study. But beware as Jesus warned about false prophets. Leaders should comment on prophecies and provide guidance as well as scriptural reference to their parishioners and so you can review the information for yourself.
Prayer and the Holy Spirit:
Seek God’s wisdom and knowledge through prayer and ask the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Spirit can reveal the source of a prophecy and confirm its authenticity. Remember that discerning prophecy requires both spiritual sensitivity and Holy Bible grounding. Test prophecies with humility while seeking God’s guidance and relying on the Holy Spirit to guide you.
I guess you may be wondering “What’s the difference between a prediction and a prophecy?”
Let’s explore the standard difference between prophecy and prediction:
Prophecy:
Origin: Prophecy typically comes from a divine source, such as God, angels, or spiritual beings. It is often associated with religious or spiritual contexts.
Purpose: Prophecy serves to reveal God’s will, provide guidance, or warn about future events, which often carry a moral or spiritual message.
Nature: Prophecies are often symbolic, metaphorical, or cryptic, and may require interpretation and unfold over time.
Examples: Biblical prophecies, ancient seers, and prophetic utterances fall into this category.
Prediction:
Origin: Predictions can come from human observation, scientific analysis, or logical reasoning, and are not necessarily tied to divine sources.
Purpose: Predictions aim to forecast future events based on available data, patterns, and trends that focus on practical outcomes.
Nature: Predictions are often quantitative, empirical, and testable, and deal with probabilities and specific outcomes.
Examples: Weather forecasts, economic predictions, and sports outcomes fall into this category.
But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.
2 Thessalonians 3:3
In summary, prophecy emphasizes spiritual insight and divine revelation, while prediction relies on human observation and logical inference. Both play distinct roles in understanding and navigating the future.
I hope this will help guide you to the prophetic truths that evade preachers and churches. I have heard that the churches don’t want to teach Revelations or prophecy because they feel the parishioners won’t understand or will be confused. I say to that “Make the teaching more than just one Sunday sermon.”
Blessings to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
H John J & Jean
Our Divided World Ministry
john@ourdividedworld.com
jean@ourdividedworld.com
https://ourdividedworld.com
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