Major Prophetic Books and Passages
Let’s explore some major prophetic books and passages in the Bible. These books and passages give us important information about the end times. We’ll look at the Book of Daniel, the Book of Revelation, and Jesus’ Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24-25. I’ll explain these in simple terms with stories and examples.
The Book of Daniel
The Book of Daniel is a prophetic book in the Old Testament that contains many visions and prophecies about future events.
Example: Imagine having a dream that shows what will happen in the future. That’s what happened to Daniel.
Key Passage: Daniel 7:13-14
Scripture: “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.”
Explanation: Daniel saw a vision of Jesus (the “son of man”) being given all authority and power. This means Jesus will rule forever.
Story: Daniel was a young man taken to Babylon. Despite being in a foreign land, he stayed faithful to God. God gave him visions of future events, showing that God is in control and has a plan for His people.
The Book of Revelation
The Book of Revelation is the last book of the New Testament and the Bible. It’s full of visions and prophecies about the end times, given to the Apostle John.
Example: Think of reading a letter that tells you what will happen in the future. That’s what Revelation is like.
Key Passage: Revelation 21:1-4
Scripture: “Then I saw ‘a new heaven and a new earth,’ for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
Explanation: John saw a vision of a new heaven and a new earth where God will live with His people. There will be no more pain or suffering.
Story: John was an old man exiled on the island of Patmos. While there, Jesus gave him visions of the future to encourage Christians and show them that God will ultimately win over evil.
Jesus’ Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24-25)
In Matthew 24-25, Jesus talks to His disciples about the end times while sitting on the Mount of Olives. This is called the Olivet Discourse.
Example: Imagine your teacher giving you important instructions before a big event. Jesus did this with His disciples about the end times.
Key Passage: Matthew 24:36
Scripture: “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”
Explanation: Jesus tells us that no one knows the exact time of the end, only God the Father. This means we should always be ready.
Story: Jesus’ disciples asked Him about the end times. Jesus told them about signs to watch for and how to be prepared. He emphasized staying faithful and ready because no one knows the exact time He will return.
Conclusion
The Bible gives us important prophecies about the end times through books like Daniel and Revelation, and through Jesus’ teachings. Here are the key points to remember:
- Daniel: Shows us visions of God’s eternal kingdom and Jesus’ authority.
- Revelation: Reveals the new heaven and new earth where God will dwell with His people.
- Olivet Discourse: Jesus teaches us to be ready and watchful for His return.
Scriptural Encouragement: “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” – Matthew 24:42
By understanding these prophetic books and passages, we can better prepare for the future and trust in God’s plan. Keep studying these Scriptures, stay close to God, and be ready for His return!
