2 Peter 1:19-21 ...you will do well to attend to the messages of the prophets, their words shine like a lamp in a dark place. But first note this; no prophesy is a matter for private interpretation. The prophets spoke by the Holy Spirit, as messengers of God.
We cannot make up our own interpretation. We must let the Bible interpret itself. Others should be able to compare Scriptures for proof and verification.
With the world situation as it is now, we can see how some prophecy may be fulfilled.
The Apostle Paul says that due to a believer’s knowledge of prophecy, they are not in darkness regarding things to come. This accounts for the inability of the multitudes to understand what is written, for they do not belong to the group which Paul calls the children of Light. Without faith, an unbeliever is unable to comprehend its meaning.
1 Corinthians 14:22b….prophecy is given for not for unbelievers, but for believers.
Because the Church and its leaders generally ignore the prophetic word, they are blind to the meaning of the signs of the times. This is one reason so many have turned away from the acceptance of the Word of God and multitudes are today without belief. Even true and faithful believers in God, generally have no real idea of future events. They simply trust God to save them, which is all very well, but shows a careless attitude and treats a large portion of God’s word as superfluous.
God’s purpose in allowing uncertainty as to the full meaning and understanding of prophecy, before its fulfilment, is because all people- despite scepticism and unbelief, would be compelled to accept the evidence of a Creator God.
The doubters are looking for a sign- no sign will be given them, but those who walk by faith will finally see and recognise prophecy coming to pass as predicted.
Earnest and sincere discussion of the prophetic word should bring spiritual stimulation and strengthen our faith. We need to know what the prophets have said, so that we can be in a position to use that information intelligently and not be surprised at what will happen.
Prophecy has not been given to men to make them prophets, but for the purpose of confirming God’s word and thus enable everyone who walks by faith, to know the truth.
Daniel 12:9-10 ….these words are to be kept secret and sealed until the time of the end…..but the wicked will continue in wickedness and none of them will understand; only the wise leaders will understand.
Commentaries say:
The wicked are the rebellious. The wise
are the teachers or leaders. And those who do teach and lead, must be really
sure they are right, because they face a more severe judgement. James 3:1
The Prophetic Word 