The Mystery of Bible Prophecies
Bible prophecies are sometimes mysterious because God shields His knowledge to protect His messages and children from their enemies who may want to interfere with God’s plans. Most of the apocalyptic prophets, such as Daniel, Ezekiel, and John gave their prophecies when they were captives under foreign powers. In these prophecies, God foretold of the destruction of these kingdoms. These message were not for the benefit of the pagans but to inspire hope and comfort in God’s children.
For this reason, the Lord covered His prophetic words with symbols so that only the honest searcher may find the truth. “Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand” (Mark 4:11, 12).
The main purpose of prophecies is to strengthen the faith of God’s children when they actually see God’s word getting fulfilled before their eyes. In John 16:4, Jesus says, “These things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you.” People often study the prophecies so they can know the future – yet prophecy is best understood after it is fulfilled. When all the pieces of the puzzle come together, the picture becomes more clear. And very few times in the Bible does people benefit from prophecy in advance, as when Egypt prepared for the famine that was predicted by Joseph in the dreams that God gave him.
Today, when the signs of the times get fulfilled, Bible students can know for sure that the end is near. And this realization can inspires a revival and help them get ready for Christ’s second coming “And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh” (Luke 21:28). But to the worldly who have rejected God, it will be a mystery.
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In His service,
BibleAsk Team
