Chapter 24 and 25 are prophecy chapters. What is Prophecy? Mounce's Expository Dictionary defines it as simply; a prediction about the future.
In Chapters 24 and 25, Jesus in His final discourse, teaches His disciples about the future. As you study, it is important to remember that you could end your study time with more questions than answers. Prophecy is still the most widely disputed topic in the Bible. Theologians, Pastors and students of the Bible often disagree on the intended meaning of prophetic passages. The most important study tip is to let the text speak for itself.
Below are hints for Chapters 24 and 25 that will guide you in your study time:
- Begin with Prayer. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you what He wants you to learn.
- Observe the text. Read and reread the text several times. Set aside any past teachings you have heard on the topic. Let the text speak to you. God will reveal His Word to you. You must study for yourself the prophetic words of Christ.
- Ask observation questions; who, what, when, where, why and how. NOTE – A common mistake in studying prophecy happens when asking the observation question when. A rule to follow is ask, “Does the text tell you when?” If not, God didn’t define it so we should not insist that we know.
- Put the lesson in context; who was Jesus speaking to; where is He; what prompted Him to speak on the subject. Then ask; who is this about, when will it happen, where is this happening.
- Use cross-references. Begin by reading parallel versions, followed with a Harmony of the Gospels. Then check other New Testament Scriptures and finally look up Old Testament verses.
- Mark all references to His coming, the End and the End of the Age.
- Look for and mark warnings or advice from Christ.
- Finally, apply it! Ask, “What does God want me to do about what I have learned? What should my attitude be?” “If I knew the date of Christ’s return would it change how I live today?”
The point of prophecy is not to confuse us, it is to educate us! It is to remind us of God's plan. It is important to know that Christ is coming again because it gives us hope!
If you have taken Foundations, I recommend rereading The Second Coming Part 1 and 2. This lesson includes passages from Matthew 24 and facts that we need to know as we study prophecy. It will also give you insight on what our church teaches on the subject.
If you have questions, please post a comment on the blog.
XO,
CJ
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