The Bible contains numerous fulfilled prophecies that demonstrate God's omniscience and the reliability of His Word. While an exact count is difficult to determine, it's estimated that hundreds of biblical prophecies have already come to pass. Some key examples include:
- The rise and fall of empires as foretold in Daniel 2 and 7
- Prophecies about the first coming of Jesus, including details of His birth, life, and death
- The destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD, as prophesied by Jesus in Matthew 24
These fulfilled prophecies serve to strengthen our faith, as Hebrews 11:1 states: "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."
We believe in walking by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). This faith is rooted in the promise of Christ's return, as He declared in John 14:3: "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also."
Our salvation is secured through faith in Jesus Christ alone. Ephesians 2:8-9 affirms: "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast." This gift of salvation grants us access to eternal life, symbolized by the tree of life mentioned in Revelation 2:7.
The Bible emphasizes the importance of repentance. Acts 3:19 urges: "Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord." This call to repentance is crucial as we prepare for Christ's return.
We eagerly anticipate the Second Coming of Christ. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 vividly describes this event: "For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord."
The book of Daniel holds significant prophecies about world empires and the coming of Christ. Daniel 7:13-14 prophecies: "I was watching in the night visions, and behold, One like the Son of Man, coming with the clouds of heaven! He came to the Ancient of Days, and they brought Him near before Him. Then to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him."
Revelation 2:26-27 promises authority to those who overcome: "And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations— 'He shall rule them with a rod of iron; They shall be dashed to pieces like the potter's vessels'— as I also have received from My Father." This promise encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith.
In times of weakness, we can take comfort in knowing that God uplifts us. Isaiah 41:10 reassures us: "Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."
As we study these prophecies and see their fulfillment, our faith is strengthened. We are reminded of God's sovereignty over history and His faithfulness to His promises. This understanding motivates us to remain firm in our beliefs and to share the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ with others.
In conclusion, the study of biblical prophecy from a Seventh-day Adventist perspective reinforces our faith in God's Word, deepens our understanding of His plan for humanity, and inspires us to live in anticipation of Christ's soon return. We are called to be ready, watching and waiting, firm in our faith and committed to sharing the gospel message with the world.