The Power of Prophecy and the Nature of Christ

The scriptures are filled with prophecies, foretelling events long before they come to pass. These prophecies serve as a powerful testament to the divine plan and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises. Let's delve into a few key insights from scripture.

Fulfilled Prophecies as Proof

The fact that past prophecies have been accurately fulfilled gives us confidence in those yet to come. As it is written, we must believe that what is predicted will certainly happen. The scriptures speak of two advents of Christ. The first, already past, saw Him come as a suffering man. The second advent, however, will be marked by His return from heaven in glory, accompanied by His angels. This glorious return will include the resurrection of all who have lived, the clothing of the worthy in immortality, and the just punishment of the wicked.

The Nature of Christ

The scriptures proclaim Christ's multifaceted nature and role. The law, the prophets, and the evangelists all testify that He was born of a virgin, suffered on the cross, rose from the dead, and ascended to heaven. He is described as the Perfect Intellect, the Word of God, the Creator of man, and All in all. He is the Patriarch among patriarchs, the Law in the law, the Priest among priests, the Prophet among prophets, the Angel among angels, the Man among men, Son in the Father, God in God, and King to all eternity.

Consider the words, "He was sold with Joseph, and He guided Abraham; was bound along with Isaac, and wandered with Jacob; with Moses He was Leader, and, respecting the people, Legislator." These powerful images highlight Christ's constant presence and guidance throughout history.

The Call to Good Works

While justification comes through faith, we are also called to good works. God Himself is an example of good works, establishing the heavens and adorning them with wisdom. We should not become slothful in well-doing, but rather hasten to perform every good work. Just as God rejoiced in His creation, we too should find joy in working righteousness.

Beware of False Teachers

It is crucial to be vigilant against false teachers who carry the name of Christ in guile, practicing things unworthy of God. We must flee from such individuals as we would wild beasts. As scripture says, "They are ravening dogs, who bite secretly, against whom ye must be on your guard, inasmuch as they are men who can scarcely be cured." Our Physician is the only true God, Jesus Christ, who became man to free our souls from death and corruption.