(OPINION) ‘Do you understand what you are reading?” And he said, ‘Well, how could I, unless someone guides me?’” (Acts 8:30-31).
One consistent criticism of Bible prophecy—or at least advocates of the importance of God’s prophetic Word—is that it has little relevance to individual believers, or the core work of the Church. Many pastors express reluctance to preach on prophecy because they have so many other concerns clamoring for their attention, from marriage and family issues to Satan and sin nipping at the heels of their flock.
Others are openly hostile toward Bible prophecy. Rick Warren, a prominent pastor who leads a huge church and is a best-selling author, characterizes prophecy as a “distraction” and says that anyone who lets himself get involved in distractions like studying prophecy “is not fit for the kingdom of God.”
Another well-known advocate of re-envisioned Christianity, Tony Campolo, said, “Rigid Christians who believe in the possibility of Jesus’ soon return are a real problem for the entire world.” Clearly, these men express a hostility toward Bible prophecy that is disturbing.
Jesus’ own disciples expressed certain expectations based on their understanding of Old Testament prophecies. During one visit to Jerusalem, following Jesus’ prophecy concerning the destruction of the impressive Temple built by Herod, they came to the Lord privately and asked, “Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?”
(Matthew 24:3). Jesus did not dismiss their expectations or scoff at their understanding. And He certainly did not rebuke their interest in what had been prophesied. Instead, He expounded on the signs of His coming and of the end of the age.
Why Study Prophecy?
The primacy of prophecy was introduced in the opening chapters of Genesis by God Himself and is woven through the entire book until the last chapter of Revelation. Uttered by God—either directly or through His prophets—it profits those who take it seriously.
Following His resurrection, Jesus asked Peter three times, “Do you love Me?” (John 21:15-17). But, in John 12:44, the rhetorical question behind His interaction with the crowd was, “Do you trust Me?,” even as He said, “He who believes in Me, does not believe in Me but in Him who sent Me.” And, since the spirit of prophecy is the testimony of Jesus, studying God’s prophetic Word helps us identify, understand, and share the Son.
In a very real sense, the greatest value of understanding Bible prophecy lies not in delving into secret knowledge accessible only to super saints of the Most High. It provides the motivation and insight to share the Gospel with the God-breathed Word and in the power of the Holy Spirit.
That brings us to the passage cited at the opening to this article and explains Philip’s mission on the road from Jerusalem to Gaza. Told by an angel to “Rise up and go south,” he got up and went (Acts 8:26-27).
When he got there, he encountered an Ethiopian eunuch who was returning home after worshipping in Jerusalem. This man was obviously observant and traveled a long distance to come to the Temple.
As devout as he was, the eunuch was unable to understand the prophetic writings of Isaiah: “He was led as a sheep to slaughter; and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so He does not open His mouth. In humiliation His judgment was taken away; who will relate His generation? For His life is removed from the earth” (Acts 8:32-33, citing Isaiah 53:7-8).
Inspired by the Holy Spirit, Philip “opened his mouth and from this Scripture he proclaimed the good news about Jesus to him” (Acts 8:35). The Ethiopian’s eyes were also opened, and he immediately expressed a desire to profess faith in Christ. Philip’s obedience and willingness to explain the truth of Messianic prophecy caused that new convert to go on his way rejoicing.
Another famous example of evangelism through prophecy is found in Peter’s first sermon at Pentecost. Found in Acts 2:14-36, it is a recitation of one prophecy after another fulfilled in the life and person of Jesus.
Joel said, “I will pour forth of My Spirit on all mankind, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy…” “We are not drunk on wine but filled with the Holy Spirit of God.”
Speaking of the Messiah, David foretold: “You will not abandon My soul to Hades, nor allow Your holy One to undergo decay…” “Jesus the Nazarene, attested to you by God with miracles and signs… was delivered over by the predetermined plan and foreknowledge of God to be nailed to a cross and put to death at the hands of godless men… but God raised Him up again, because it was impossible for death to hold Him.”
David was also promised that one of his descendants would sit on his throne, though David remains dead and buried while Jesus lives again. That is why David also foresaw His exalted Son ascending into heaven, and he foreheard, “The LORD said to my Lord, sit at My right hand, until I make Your enemies a footstool for your feet…” “This is a promise that abides on Jesus, the Lord and Christ whom you have crucified.” (READ MORE)
