Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein, for the time is at hand. Revelation 1:3
During their long years of slavery in the southern United States, the slaves found solace from their oppression and cruel mistreatment in their faith. Many touching Negro Spirituals emerged during that period, expressing a hope that, despite their miserable circumstances, they could look forward to comfort and rejoicing in Heaven. Now that slavery has been long abolished, the descendents of those slaves continue their struggle, although at a different level. Instead of turning to God for comfort, they turn to their efforts to improve their economic and social conditions, and many of them are succeeding. They are like Christians today who are taking much more interest in earthly improvements than in eternal expectations. And yet, our text speaks of a blessing for those who take an interest in prophecy.
We know what is going to happen to this old sinful world. Its judgment and destruction are certain. And we know about – or at least we know a little about – the wonderful future that God has prepared for us, His children. For this reason, it is important for Christians to be informed as to God’s purposes for the future. We need to know what to expect, because, as our text reminds us, the time is at hand. The next event on God’s calendar is the Rapture, that great calling away of the Saints to be forever with the Lord. The prospect should thrill us and motivate us to be working, waiting, and watching for His return. But things are pretty comfortable around here, and getting better, so we tend to forget about our heavenly prospects and instead work to spruce up our earthly accommodations. But God has a blessing for us if we read and heed his prophecy, a greater blessing than the temporary comforts of time and sense.
The chart called Two Roads and Two Destinies provides us with a very tiny peek into the future, showing us such places as Heaven, Hell, and the lake of fire, along with such future events as the Judgment Seat of Christ and the Great White Throne. But there is so much more to prophecy than those highlights. Much of the Old Testament has many details of coming events. The Lord Jesus frequently discussed the future with His disciples. The epistles have many references to our future, and of course, the final book of our Bible is filled with details about the future. Sometimes we find it difficult to grasp concepts of prophecy, especially in the Revelation. Some good and credible writers have assembled this information for us; just ask your favourite preacher for a recommendation.
Prophecy is inspirational, much more exciting than science fiction, and it’s 100 percent true. Read it and be blessed. -Jim MacIntosh