Most Christians avoid Bible prophecy because it gets so confusing due to all the conflicting interpretations of symbols and spiritualizing. This is unfortunate. The most important predictions in the Bible are quite literal and easy to grasp by seeing their context in actual world history and current events.
Three of my most trusted mentors have believed a simple tip or rule of interpreting scripture: “If you can possibly take a verse or passage literally, do so.” This has been the key for me over many years now. Bible prophecy buffs tend to enjoy elaborate theories of last day scenarios that tantalize the reader or “tickle the ears” of their followers. It may be fun, but serves to draw attention away from actual predictions that edify and instruct us for daily living in a changing world.
My journey in literal prophecy began with Ezekiel 36 which is most often applied to the spiritual experience of Christians, but is a literal prophecy for the 21st century. It reveals Yehovah’s plan to restore both the land and the people of Israel, literally, in a real modern miracle. We have seen it fulfilled with our own eyes. Other examples can be found by taking literally Psalm 102, Psalm 83, Isaiah 17 and 19, Isaiah 60, and Ezekiel 38 and 39.
What we have here is a definite pattern. Take the Bible literally. Only launch into symbolic meaning as a last resort if it simply cannot be taken literally. The extreme of this problem is seen in the ultimate rejection of the Bible itself. That is the trend as denominations turn away from God.
For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. Hebrews 4:12-13
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain.
Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)
A Verse That Makes Me Say: Hmmm
23 10 2021A fool’s displeasure is known at once, but whoever ignores an insult is sensible. Proverbs 12:16 CSB
A fool is quick-tempered, but a wise person stays calm when insulted. Proverbs 12:16 NLT
Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult. Proverbs 12:16 NIV
The vexation of a fool is known at once, but the prudent ignores an insult. Proverbs 12:16 ESV
A fool shows his annoyance the same day, But one who overlooks an insult is prudent. Proverbs 12:16 HNV
A fool’s wrath is known at once, But a prudent man covers shame. Proverbs 12:16 NKJV
— SELAH
A fool loses his cool immediately and takes offense. A wise man stays quiet and covers his initial shameful feelings. (My own paraphrase.)
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain.
Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)
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Tags: Bible, Correction, Elisha Vision, Israel, Jerusalem, Prophecy
Categories : Israel Commentary