Doctrinal pointers by Gerald B. Stanton, Th.D. Prof, of Systematic Theology, Talbot Theological Seminary
The Importance of Prophecy
I n many orthodox theological cir cles today, there is seen an increas ing interest in eschatology (the doctrine of last things). With political unrest and moral corruption abound ing on every hand, many feel that we have entered the deepening shadows of the end of the age. In other circles, however, there is a strange silence in respect to the prophetic Scriptures. Many pulpits have little to say con cerning conditions that shall prevail in the end time. Men seem unable to interpret the swiftly moving events of their day. Prophecy is important because of the prominent place it finds in Scrip ture. Some 16 Old Testament books and at least three important New Testament books are largely prophetic. Whole chapters elsewhere deal with things to come. It is variously esti mated that between 1/5 and 1/3 of the Bible was prophetic when first written. Prophecy is important because of the teaching ministry of the Holy Spirit. John 16:13 not only declares that the Spirit will guide the believer into all truth, but also “ he will shew you things to come.” Prophecy is important because it testifies to the inspiration of the Word of God. The fulfillment of prophecy confirms the claim that it is God who has spoken. Only God can declare the actions of men and the movements of nations before the man is bom or ever the nation is established. Prophecy is important, for prophecy does not stand alone but affects every other area of Christian doctrine! For example, one’s millennial view is determined directly by the method of biblical interpretation which is used. Literal interpretation produces pre- millennialism; the allegorizing meth
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od produces amillennialism. More over, no doctrine is complete without its eschatology. The doctrine of sin ends in its expulsion from the pres ence of God. The doctrine of salvation has no finality without future glori fication. The study of prophecy is important as an incentive to biblical Christian ity. Men who truly look for the appearing of Christ will not be overly attracted by the things of the world, nor blown about by the winds of false doctrine. The study of prophecy will give a true perspective to history. It may be this that Albert Schweitzer had in mind when he said, “The solution to history is eschatological.” The knowl edge of prophecy e n l a r g e s one’s understanding of the great crises and world movements of our day. It gives an accurate insight into the major purposes and program of God for this age. It reveals how that which is temporal is moving on toward that which is eternal. The study of prophecy will shed light upon the present path of the Christian. It will help him to learn the will of the Lord. It will determine his spiritual duty. It w ill give him composure — a quiet heart in the midst of the storm. Finally, it will give a dynamic to the Christian message — an authori tative note so often lacking in testi mony and sermon. Not as foretellers but as forthtellers of divine truth, it will enable us to go forth as prophets sent from God to men of our day. “We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts” (2 Pet. 1:19). END.
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