I begin by saying that the scriptures shows there is no private interpretation of the scripture (II Peter 1:20). What that means is when Micah said Jesus would be born in Bethlehem, no other city could have been used by God (Micah 5:2). Prophecy of the scripture requires diligent effort to find the meaning. When we approach the study of God’s Word from the view of the “eternal purpose” of God, then prophecy of future events must be seen through those lens (Ephesians 3:10). By way of example, Moses spoke about a future leader on Israel that all of God’s people would have to obey (Deuteronomy 18:15). That prophet was Jesus.
The testimony of Jesus is the spirit or life of prophecy (Revelation 19:10). When one looks at how Jesus taught, you did not get the idea that future generations from the first century were under consideration. Jesus said the kingdom was at hand (Matthew 4:17). He also declared that the generation in which He was living would not pass away until the kingdom had come (Mark 9:1). All would be fulfill as Jesus spoke in Matthew 24 (Matthew 24:34).
Here I believe is the root of the trouble. There have been disturbances in the world regarding politics, economy or natural disasters. When these things happen close together, those who misuse prophecy crank out their books and tapes for profit. Even deeper than that, I believe that people desire a close personal relationship with God. They want some “sign” or “signs” which can be used to prove God is near. The Christian opens his Bible and knows God will never forsake His people (Hebrews 13:5). Even though the Christian cannot “see” God, he learns through the Word to love God (I Peter 1:8). As Paul stated, “…though he be not far from every one of us “ (Acts 17:27). The rapture and end times are false doctrines but God’s Words are true.
Leave a Reply