SDA Sabbath School Lessons
March 30, 1996


#13 Study of Bible Prophecy

Read for This Week's Study: Rev. 3:14-22

Memory Text: 2 Peter 1:20, 21

Key Thought:

Bible prophecy strengthens our faith and enlightens us in regard to our Christian duty in the light of events predicted to occur in the future.

Bible prophecy is objective evidence that God exists and that the Bible is His inspired revelation. (See 1 Peter 1:16-19.) It is often pointed out that it is not possible to prove the existence of God or the inspiration of the Bible. The Christian faith is precisely that, a religion of faith. Even so, the Lord has not left us without strong supporting evidence to strengthen our faith. Fulfilled Bible prophecy is one of the greatest evidences that our faith in God, our confidence in the saving power of Jesus Christ, and our belief in the messages of His Word are based on objective realities. (See Isa. 46:9, 10.)

Study of Bible prophecy involves first identifying the kind of prophecy being studied: prophecy with a local application only (Ezek. 26:7), prophecy with dual applications (Jeremiah 4), or apocalyptic prophecy that focuses on the end-time (Daniel 2). In the study of apocalyptic prophecy, it is important to interpret the symbolism by the use of similar symbolism used elsewhere in Scripture. As in all kinds of Bible study, the Bible is its own interpreter.

Outline:


Summary:

Study of symbolic Bible prophecy involves careful interpretation of each symbol by comparing other passages that employ the same symbolism. Using this method, we have discovered the meaning of the symbols used in the message to the church of Laodicea. The heart of the message is Christ's willingness to impart to us faith that works by love, the gift of His indwelling righteousness, and the spiritual enlightenment of the Holy Spirit, who clarifies the Word for us. As we daily open our heart's door, Jesus comes in to dwell with us and to empower us for vibrant Christian living.


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Last updated on February 22, 1996.