Hello Doves,

Since 1982 or so I have been a student of end-time Bible prophecy. To give you a short background on myself, I am a Spirit-filled believer that ascribes to a pre-trib view of the Rapture. I believe as with the majority of posters to this site that we're nearing the midnight hour regarding the Lord's return for His bride. BTW - I'm looking upward for Tabernacles :)

Herein lies my concern. It appears to me that in the past several years of tracking modern day prophets (those that claim the prophet's mantle, not teachers/scholars of Bible prophecy) - there can often be quite differing statements with regards to the times and events spoken of by these prophets. For example, one prophetic "trend" (for lack of a better word) manifested as visions and dreams, supports the position that the Rapture of believers will take place this 2007 year. Connected with these are prophecies pointing to devastating and chaotic events within the US by many prominent ministers and prophets. In contrast to this "trend" however are prophets, some of whom are quite prominent, who prophecy great peace and upcoming economic prosperity for the US. One such prophet, who by all accounts is a believer, foretells of a Christian US presidency well into 2015/2016 along with 20 years of no more war for the US. Without elaborating on details, as a believer it is hard to get both "trends" to square up into one unified message to the church.

My question for all is "how do we go about testing the word" we are given as a body. I pray about the issue and try to learn more about the spiritual character/integrity of the person giving the message. I realize that we live in a fallen, imperfect world so there will be times when Christians can err. However had I been an unbeliever scrutinizing this religious climate I would have certainly been put off by the discrepancy between claims - given that both prophetic trends state they are hearing from the Lord. I also question the degree of accountability our modern day prophets have. In the Old Testament they could be stoned for prophecy that was given and found false. I'm not advocating that for today but certainly we need a more serious accounting of our word given in the Lord's name.

I would like to hear what your take is on why this might be occurring. Have others come across the dichotomy. It's an issue that has really been on my heart and I have limited Christian friends that I feel are sufficiently adept in prophecy to share this with.
 
 

In Christ,

Sandy

email: sandy.curtis@tx.rr.com