The Two Edged Sword

A Lion Has Roared!

“Surely the Lord does nothing unless He reveals His secret counsel to His servants the prophets. The lion has roared – who will not fear? The Lord God has spoken – who can but prophesy?” Amos 3:7-8 (NIV)

"Prophecy" – How does that word make you feel? Does it thrill you are scare you? Does it fill you with excitement or dread; eager anticipation or fear? Or does it just confuse you? Perhaps your response is a mixture of all of the above.

Personally, I love prophecy. I have studied many of the prophetic books inductively. I still do not fully understand everything – by any means! But there are now a few things I do know. These I will pass on as helpful hints for studying Biblical prophecy.

1)Do not be dogmatic about your position. Be opinionated, yes - but not dogmatic. Remember Biblical scholars more learned than you (or me) do not fully agree on the various interpretations of Biblical prophecy.

2)Study prophecy in the context of the whole of scripture. God’s word is the authority on God’s word. When we do not understand a passage cross referencing it with other passages is often helpful.

3)Do not shy away from prophecy. It is part of God’s word and those who study it receive great blessings.(I know this first hand!)

4) Do not focus solely on prophecy at the expense of other scripture. 1st Corinthians13 reminds us that now we know in part but someday we will know fully. Until then, we have work to do in God’s kingdom. That work is the great commission as given by Jesus in Matthew 28 – to go into all nations baptizing and making disciples.

So, study Biblical prophecy! Dig deep and learn much. Listen to the lion's roar. But also … Be about your Father’s business!