Sermon: Comparing Prophecy of Today to Prophecies of Jesus' Coming

Sermon: Comparing Prophecy of Today to Prophecies of Jesus' Coming

Introduction

Good morning, brothers and sisters in Christ. Today, we delve into the profound topic of prophecy—comparing the prophecies about the coming of Jesus with the prophecies we encounter today. Understanding the nature, purpose, and function of prophecy can enrich our faith and help us discern God's voice in our lives. Let us explore how these prophetic messages align, differ, and what they mean for us as followers of Christ.

Part 1: Prophecies of Jesus' Coming

Old Testament Prophecies

1. The Virgin Birth

Scripture Reference: Isaiah 7:14

"Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."

Fulfillment: Matthew 1:22-23

"All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 'The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel' (which means 'God with us')."

The prophecy of the virgin birth was a miraculous sign that pointed unmistakably to the divine nature of the coming Messiah. It underscored the supernatural intervention of God in human history.

2. The Birthplace of the Messiah

Scripture Reference: Micah 5:2

"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times."

Fulfillment: Matthew 2:1-6

"After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, 'Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.' When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the people's chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. 'In Bethlehem in Judea,' they replied, 'for this is what the prophet has written.'"

Bethlehem, though small and seemingly insignificant, was chosen as the birthplace of the Messiah, highlighting God's ability to bring greatness from humility.

3. The Suffering Servant

Scripture Reference: Isaiah 53:3-5

"He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed."

Fulfillment: 1 Peter 2:24

"He himself bore our sins" in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; "by his wounds you have been healed."

Isaiah's prophecy depicted the sacrificial and atoning death of Jesus, the ultimate Suffering Servant who would bring healing and redemption to humanity.

Part 2: Prophecy Today

Nature and Function of Modern Prophecy

1. Encouragement and Edification

Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 14:3

"But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort."

Modern prophecy often serves to build up, encourage, and comfort believers. It may provide insights or direction in specific situations but must align with biblical principles and truth.

2. Guidance for the Church

Scripture Reference: Acts 13:1-3

"Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off."

Prophecies today can offer guidance for church ministries, confirming God's direction and purpose for His people.

Part 3: Comparing Prophecy Then and Now

Similarities

1. Divine Inspiration

Both Old Testament prophecies about Jesus and modern prophecies are inspired by the Holy Spirit. They serve to communicate God's will and purposes to His people.

2. Call to Righteousness

Both sets of prophecies often include a call to return to God and live righteously. Prophets in the Old Testament called Israel to repentance, and modern prophets encourage believers to walk in holiness and obedience.

Differences

1. Scope and Authority

Old Testament prophecies had a national or even global scope, addressing entire nations and foretelling significant events in redemptive history, such as the coming of the Messiah. Modern prophecies are usually more personal or localized, aimed at individuals or congregations.

2. Fulfillment and Permanence

Old Testament prophecies about Jesus were specific and detailed, with their fulfillment recorded in the New Testament, forming part of the canon of Scripture. Modern prophecies are not added to the Bible and are subject to testing and discernment within the Christian community.

Part 4: Guarding Against Prophetic Abuse

Recognizing Abuse

1. False Prophecies for Personal Gain

Scripture Reference: 1 Timothy 6:10

"For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs."

Example: A televangelist predicts financial blessings for those who donate to his ministry, exploiting believers' trust for personal gain.

2. Control and Manipulation

Scripture Reference: Ezekiel 13:6

"Their visions are false and their divinations a lie. Even though the Lord has not sent them, they say, 'The Lord declares,' and expect him to fulfill their words."

Example: A church leader uses prophecy to control members' decisions, claiming divine authority to dictate personal choices.

Biblical Guidelines for Safeguarding

1. Testing and Discernment

Scripture Reference: 1 John 4:1

"Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world."

We must test all prophecies against the truth of Scripture and seek confirmation through prayer and wise counsel.

2. Accountability and Community

Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 14:29

"Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully what is said."

Prophetic words should be evaluated within the church community to ensure they align with God's will and benefit the body of Christ.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the prophecies about Jesus' coming and the prophecies we encounter today both serve important roles in God's communication with His people. While the context and scope may differ, the underlying principles of divine inspiration, edification, and the call to righteousness remain consistent. As we navigate the world of modern prophecy, let us be diligent in testing and discerning these messages, ensuring they align with Scripture and build up the body of Christ. By doing so, we honor the true spirit of prophecy and remain faithful to God's will for our lives.

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of prophecy and for the ways You speak to us today. Help us to discern Your voice and test all things according to Your Word. May we be encouraged and built up by true prophetic words and protected from deception. Guide us in all truth, and may our hearts always be open to Your leading. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.