The Bible has been referred to be a guide to humanity. It is a holy book written by people inspired by GOD, however, the content of the bible has continued to rise heated debated among scholars and theologians. There are different interpretations that have been given concerning different verses in the Bible. One of the most controversial topics is the work of prophets and what whether their prophesy was based on promises that GOD had made earlier to the people.
One of the most notable promises was the building of the temple by King Solomon. It marked the fulfillment of the narrative in Exodus that Israel would be a home for priests and would be a holy nation. After this, the number of prophets in Israel increased.. As Beechler explained, the prophecies were not just random.. This was not a prediction since it was inspired by GOD, if it was a prediction; anybody would have done it, however, this did not happen which shows that the prophets were inspired by a supreme GOD. The prophets were guiding people towards receiving GOD’S promises, , for GOD’S promises to be fulfilled to the World human beings had to live a holy life. GODS plan is also discussed in other verses of the bible in the New Testament such as Romans 9-11.
The promise in the Ninth Century discusses the warnings that prophets gave the children of Israel. Elijah and Elisha were some of the most vocal prophets who warned people to turn away from their wicked ways .The children of Israel had turned the nation to a kingdom of sin being led by their kings who worshipped idols. Just as prophet Obadiah had prophesied there were consequences that would be faced by a nation that turn away from GOD as it happened to Edom. GOD punished the world in different ways, when there was a locust plague on Edom; it was a sign from GOD, the prophets, however, urged people to turn to GOD since there was the time to repent as discussed in Joel 2:12-13.When the people fasted and prayed to GOD as the prophets had advised, GOD had mercy on HIS people and saved them from death.The work of the prophets was a continuous work, the prophets of the 8th century also warned people against sin. Amos was very vocal in warning Israel and its neighbors such as Judah to turn away from their wickedness. Amos view of GOD as a supreme being shows the opinion of other prophets. Other prophets such as Hosea have proclaimed the Lord’s gospel and agree with His teachings.Hosea asked the people to turn to the Lord .Micah preached about hope on Christ.
The prophets were not speaking their words; they were preaching the gospel as Christ had inspired them to do. GOD did not want man to suffer in sins, which is why HE sent prophets who would interpret the gospel and guide people in living a righteous life. Their prophecies were in fulfillment of GOD’S promises to the world, and that is why each prophecy was made a reality. Some of the prophecies that were made in the Old Testament were fulfilled in the New Testament. The main work of the prophets was to prepare the world for the coming of Jesus Christ.
Work Cited
Kaiser, Walter C.. "7." The promise-plan of God: a biblical theology of the Old and New Testaments : based on toward an Old Testament theology. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan, 2008. 152-188. Print.
