Prophecy, Syria In National Spotlight

Prophecy, Syria In National Spotlight

USA Today had an article yesterday morning discussing what some see as “biblical vision of doom in Syria trouble”.Looking to God and His Word can only benefit those who seek comfort and context as apparent chaos hits the headlines.

Ancient players from prophecy are on the scene – Syria, Israel, and Persia (Iran). It has been no secret for years the intention of Iran to destroy Israel. (Ezek. 38:1-23) And, Syria is currently at a state or war with the Jewish State.

What do we do? The Bible encourages us to look at the ancient prophetic insights, walk in it and find rest. (Jer. 6:16)

A Faithful Definition for Prophecy

The great Jewish scholar, Abraham Joshua Heschel, wrote: “Prophecy is the voice that God has lent to the silent agony, a voice to the plundered poor, to the profane riches of the world. It is a form of living, a crossing point of God and man. God is raging in the prophet’s words.”

For followers of Jesus, Peter reminds that “prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” (2 Pet. 1:21)

We can trust that what the prophets have written will come to pass. God’s prophecy will be known and those who follow Him will not be left in the dark. And, that is the purpose of prophecy – we can trust God and know that He will bring his Words to pass. In this, we can find rest because he is in control.

Be Careful

But, we must not approach prophecy lightly. Peter also warns that “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.” (2 Pet. 1:20) We must weigh prophecy with others who are in our community that follow God. And, let historical events be tested by what God’s Word says.

It is also a sober warning to all believers that God is over all. He is the judge over the entire earth. That His ability to be involved in international crisis is the same ability He has in every corner of your life. He can bring Syria’s chemical weapons to light in the same way He can bring your own secrets to light.

Hearing God In Everything

A faithful Jew wakes up every morning and goes to bed with these words on his/her mouth: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” (Deut. 6:4) This is called “The Shema.” ‘Hear’ in Hebrew is ‘Shema’ and it doesn’t just mean you hear something with your ears. ‘Shema’ encourages that you do what is heard.

‘Hearing God’ is at the heart of prophecy. And, prophecy is meant to spur you into action. Jesus said the ‘Shema’ before stating the two greatest commands (Mark 12:29-31). What does this mean about hearing God’s prophecies?

Ask these questions about every prophecy:
1. How can I love God with this prophecy?
2. How can I love my neighbor with this prophecy?

This is why the apostle Paul writes that prophecy means nothing without love. (1 Cor. 13:2)