We will see later that ordinary Christian prophecy is fragmentary, time-oriented, specific and local. For all those reasons it is "in part," and it will cease "when perfection comes." Then we shall "see face to face" and "know fully" even as we are fully known (1 Cor. 13:8-12). Some believers think this text refers to the time when the last New Testament book was written and the Bible was completed. However, we have seen that "perfection" here refers to the fullness of God's saving purpose and the complete maturity of Christ's people when Jesus returns. Even if we did not know that, there are … [Read more...]

Ordinary Christian prophecy is a hallmark of the Christian era and a particularly desirable gift (Acts 2:16-21; 1 Cor. 14:1). Yet when prophecy has fully served its purpose, it will come to an end. The Apostle Paul explains: "We know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. . . . Now we see but a poor reflection; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known" (1 Cor. 13:9-12). One day, when Jesus returns, God's plan will reach its full and perfect goal. Meanwhile, as Paul notes early in this … [Read more...]

It is the Jewish Feast of Weeks (also known as Pentecost), a festival celebrating the harvest's firstfruits and also the giving of the Law. Some 120 of Jesus' disciples are together, expectantly waiting the coming of God's Spirit as Jesus had recently promised before he ascended to heaven. Suddenly supernatural manifestations fill the room -- a sound like a mighty wind, fire-like phenomena that separate and spread upon them all. Jesus' followers begin to speak in languages they have never learned, reciting the mighty deeds of God. Word spreads and a huge crowd quickly gathers. Some say these … [Read more...]