The Purpose Of Prophecy

THE PURPOSE OF PROPHECY
Prophecy has been described as “history written beforehand.” But this is incorrect. If this is the sole purpose of prophecy, then the prophets have done a miserable job. They could have written a much more concise and understandable history.

Biblical prophecy always serves a specific purpose. That purpose may be to rebuke those who are out of the will of God and to warn of the consequences of continuing in sin. Another purpose for Biblical prophecy is to comfort Godly believers. Thus, the same prophecy may be a judgment on one person and an encouragement to another. Our understanding of the specific purpose of the prophecy will be assisted as we learn the historical setting of the passage. This means we must always examine prophetic passages in the context in which they are given, taking into account the reason for the prophecy.

1. The main purpose of prophecy is to affect the conduct and commitment of those who hear the prophecy. It is to make you live differently in the present. This is seen in Titus 2:12-13 where we are to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, 13 looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus. It is the expectancy of the return of Christ that is to be one of our motivations for godly living.

2. Another purpose of prophecy is to build faith. It is to establish confidence in the Lord who miraculously foretold events which then came to pass. From now on I am telling you before it comes to pass, so that when it does occur, you may believe that I am He. (John 13:19). And now I have told you before it comes to pass, that when it comes to pass, you may believe. (John 14:29).

Obviously, this is related to the previous point, for as one's faith is increased and strengthened, so also his commitment and conduct will be affected.

3. Another reason is to encourage believers who are in the midst of difficult situation. Prophecy brings hope because it allows us to see just a bit of the bigger picture. If you have ever had opportunity to look at the underside of a Turkish carpet, you know it is not a pretty picture, especially if you are looking at it through a magnifying glass. It is made up of a tangle of woven threads. But if you turn it right-side-up and then stand back so that you can see the entire carpet at a single glance, you will find yourself gazing upon an elegant design. Being able to see a bigger part of the picture is an encouragement when you are going through hard times.

4. Finally, prophecy is given that you might be ready for the future. We are all going there in one way or another. Future prophecy is given to get us ready for the journey.