Why Should We Study Bible Prophecy?
Most people want to know the future and understand their purpose. They ask, “Where did I come from? Why am I here? What is my ultimate destiny?” The answers are found not by following worldly philosophies but by studying Scripture’s prophetic revelation.
Some find prophecy too complicated or bemoan that it fosters confusion, contention, and division within churches. Others dismiss prophetic teachers as sensationalist, speculative, and lacking credibility. Many lament that they ask their pastors about specific prophecies and never receive a clear answer nor hear them speak on the subject. Thus, people conclude prophecy does not matter.
Yet, biblical prophecy must be studied correctly and thoroughly for many reasons:
1. Prophecy permeates the Bible. Approximately 28.5% of the Old Testament, 21.5% of the New Testament, and 27% of all Scripture is prophetic. Entire books of the Bible, such as the Major and Minor Prophets, 2 Thessalonians, and Revelation, are prophetic. Numerous chapters elsewhere in Scripture (Mt. 13; 24—25; 1 Th. 4) are largely prophetic.
2. Prophecy confirms Christ’s birth (Mic. 5:2), death (Isa. 53; Ps. 22), resurrection (Mt. 16:21), ministry (Isa. 61:1–2; Lk. 4:18–21), miracles (Mt. 9:5–6), and divine rule (Isa. 9:6–7; Lk. 1:31–33). Jesus Himself confirmed what the prophets said about His ministry (24:25–27).
3. Prophecy comes from the Holy Spirit. The apostle Peter certified that Scripture’s writers received their messages directly from God (2 Pet. 1:16–21).
4. Prophecy converts sinners. The apostles Peter and Paul preached the prophetic Scriptures (Acts 2:1–40; 3:1–26; 28:25–27), convincing people to receive Christ (17:34; 18:7–8).
5. Prophecy comforts Christians as they wait for Christ’s return (Jn. 14:1–3; 1 Th. 4:18).
6. Prophecy predicts the consequence of man’s life: “It is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment” (Heb. 9:27). After death, believers’ works will be judged and rewarded accordingly at the Judgment Seat of Christ (1 Cor. 3:12–17; 2 Cor. 5:10). Unbelievers will stand before the Great White Throne Judgment of Christ, after which they are cast into the Lake of Fire to suffer eternally (Rev. 20:11–15).
7. Prophecy provides God’s counsel. Concerning prophecy, the Lord said, “I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning” (Isa. 46:9–10). God knows all things, is in all places, and possesses all power.
More than half of all biblical prophecy has been fulfilled already, so we can be confident that God will fulfill the rest. Studying prophecy should be a priority for every Christian.
