Originally Posted by couchgrouch
Anyone who tries to direct people's attention to God's word, the Bible, does a very worthwhile thing.

But, a word of caution. We want to be someone who, "correctly explains the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2: 15)

In the 1960s, several religious groups began making predictions about what would take place in the mid-70s into the 80s. They based their predictions on their interpretations of certain sections of the Bible.

These were Jehovah's Witnesses, The Worldwide Church of God(Herbert W. Armstrong), and Hal Lindsay, among other small fry.

None of their predictions ever came true.

It is quite natural to be curious as to how God's purpose will unfold ( see 1st Peter 1 :12). It's another thing altogether to mislead others with false
predictions and even more serious to profit from it.

When the apostles asked Jesus if he was restoring the kingdom to Israel at that time, Jesus pointedly told them, "The Father alone has authority to set those dates and times, and THEY ARE NOT FOR YOU TO KNOW." (Acts 1:6, 7)

Even Jesus did not know. (Matthew 24:36) See also
Deuteronomy 18:21, 22 concerning false prophets.

The Apostle Peter himself said that Paul's letters were hard to understand and that some were "twisting them." (2 Peter 3: 15, 16)

So, from time to time, someone will come along and make predictions they claim are "Bible-based". Inevitably they are proven wrong.

These predictions only serve to demoralize those who are misled and, more importantly, cast God's word and the Good News in a bad light, providing ammunition for scoffers.

For about $100, you can pick up some very reliable Bible study materials and a few outstanding translations. These are easily understood and will help an honest hearted person appreciate the Bible as the spiritual and historical treasure it is.

I was recently asked by an old, old friend if the US coin shortage had to do with the number of the beast. I offered the advice above.

It's good advice.

Scripture quotations are from the New Living Translation. Please forgive any typos. I was using my phone.



Robert,

This may be your most thoughtful and helpful post here. For the religious, it should offer focus and cast away hyperbole . To the non-religious, it is still reasoned, measured, focused and rational.

People predicting the end is nigh should take heed. They may have good intent, but they should refocus on these fundamentals and reflect on their actions, approach, outlook and prescriptions to others.

Thanks,

Brian

Brian Austin Whitney
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