I’m going to spend a few weeks rediscovering the biblical prophets. No, I’m not going to reveal the antichrist or explain the meaning of 666. I’m not going to tell you when the Rapture is going to take place nor am I going to write about bowls, scrolls, seals, horns, horsemen, dragons, beasts, or prostitutes.
Sorry, that’s not my shtick.
The role of the Old Testament prophets included proclaiming disobedience, calling for repentance, and warning of judgment if the people refused to turn to God.
Thus, the overwhelming majority of biblical prophecies were indicative rather than predictive. In other words, they spoke about the current situation of specific people in specific times at specific places.
Even so, the prophetic books are not simply history lessons—they are alive and relevant to people of faith in every generation. Relegating the Old Testament’s message to the days preceding Christ robs it of its essential character as the eternal Word of God and denies us valuable insight into His character, nature, and redemptive plan. In light of the revelation of Jesus Christ and our current historical context, I propose that the Old Testament prophets can still speak to us today.
My friends, the true value of biblical prophecy isn’t found in giant charts outlining the Great Tribulation; its greatest value is found in the eternal principles which are revealed through God’s Word. The prophets teach us about God and the manner in which He deals with His people during difficult times.
Their message never gets old.
