4 Reasons Biblical Prophecy Matters

Many believe Biblical prophecy suggests the idea of future events that have little application for today. However, Scripture notes four reasons Biblical prophecy matters in our lives right now.

Reason 1: Biblical Prophecy Affirms the Bible’s Truth

Did you know many Biblical prophecies have already been fulfilled? Numerous predictions were fulfilled in the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. For example, Jesus:

• Was born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18-25)
• Came to provide healing and freedom (Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18-19)
• Was betrayed for 30 pieces of silver (Zechariah 11:12-13; Matthew 26:15)
• Died as a suffering servant (Isaiah 53)

When we see many of Scripture’s predictions already coming true, it shows the accuracy of the Bible in a way that transcends criticism and other pieces of literature.

Reason 2: Biblical Prophecy Encourages Believers

In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, the apostle Paul describes some of the details regarding the rapture. He concludes by noting believers are to “encourage one another with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:18). For believers, prophecy is intended as a source of encouragement.

Unfortunately, many believers misunderstand this aspect of Bible prophecy. For unbelievers, the coming judgments upon the earth should cause concern, leading them to choose to believe in Jesus and follow Him. For believers, however, we have an amazing future to consider:

• Immediately being in the presence of the Lord after death or at the rapture.
• Eternity with the Lord Jesus Christ.
• Living in a new heaven and new earth with all of God’s people forever.
• No more sin or sadness or sorrow or pain.

If for no other reason, believers should study Biblical prophecy to be encouraged for daily living. We have a future hope.

Reason 3: Biblical Prophecy Urges Evangelism 

While believers are to be encouraged through Biblical prophecy, we are also urged to share our faith with others. Why? We know Jesus can return at any moment, the time is short, and we are called to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:18-20).

One reason American evangelism is often lacking may be because we do not study Biblical prophecy. Those who do study prophecy realize the clock is ticking. If Jesus returns today, will we be able to say we shared our faith with every person possible?

Reason 4: Biblical Prophecy Produces Right Living

Understood properly, Biblical prophecy indicates Jesus will return at any moment for His children. Many warning passages in Scripture emphasize the importance of being ready for His arrival. We are to seek to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Matthew 25:21). In addition, we want to be living for God the moment He arrives rather than living for sinful pleasures or neglecting His calling.

We may not understand every detail regarding Biblical prophecy, but we can recognize its impact on our daily lives. When we recognize how prophecy affirms God’s truth, encourages our daily lives, urges sharing our faith, and produces righteous living, we realize the power of prophecy in the future—and for the moment in which we live right now.