A few months ago, Margaret and I were conversing with a couple of good Christian ladies. When the subject of prophecy came up, they let it be known that they were not much interested. They were rather interested in the practical aspects of the Christian life. How about it? Is prophecy practical?
Yes. Prophecy is “practical” because it offers a basis for faith. God himself challenges other religions to prove they are divine. “Produce your cause, says the LORD . . . show the things that are to come hereafter, that we may know that you are gods” (Isaiah 41:21-23). Fulfilled prophecy proves the Bible to be the Word of God. Fulfilled prophecy builds and sustains true faith. That sounds very practical in the midst of a materialistic world.
Prophecy is also “practical” because it offers motivation for holy living. Listen. “There shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, and saying, Where is the promise of his coming? . . . But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise . . . Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in all holy conduct and godliness” (2 Peter 3:2-11). Those who scoff at unfulfilled prophecies live in lust. Those who heed such prophecies are motivated to live holy lives. That sounds very practical in the midst of a pleasure-loving society.