So, we begin with the exposition of this marvelous
book of prophecy! When I was a new believer in Christ, eschatology – or the
prophetic study of “last things” – was an early favorite of mine. I consumed
everything I could get a hold of by way of books, tapes and VHS tapes. It’s
still a tremendous favorite of mine and quite to the contrary of the belief of
some, prophecy IS our business and it IS VERY practical!
Study of last days prophecy is in part, what is
required in spiritual vigilance; looking for the coming of the LORD with a
strong sense of expectancy, and this hope has a purifying, practical effect on
the saint:
1
JOHN 3:2-3
2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall
be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall
see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is
pure.
And we are commanded by our LORD to “watch and pray” in
regard to His Return (MARK 13:33; LUKE
21:36).
We must and will resort to Scripture and careful
observation of what the text actually says, and not what we may think it means.
A close eye on the original Greek for many of these
passages and words will be necessary as well as comparison with parallel texts
found in the Old Testament and New. Just as the Holy Spirit inspired John to
write this book, we likewise need the guidance of the Holy Spirit to understand
it.
I do believe however, that for most of this book,
especially from Chapter 6 and onward, the fullness of understanding will be
granted to those who will be living through this time, as they are the ones who
will need it the most. For us, the church of Jesus Christ, His body, His bride,
these latter chapters are in a sense, academic – holding to a ‘pre-tribulation’
view, we understand that the admonitions and warnings are not for us, but for
those who will face this dreadful time under the reign of anti-Christ.
Read more!