This salvation was something even the prophets wanted to know more about when they prophesied about this gracious salvation prepared for you. They wondered what time or situation the Spirit of Christ within them was talking about when he told them in advance about Christ’s suffering and his great glory afterward.
Key Thought
One of the most important claims Scripture makes about itself, and its origins, is that it is God-breathed and Spirit-inspired (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The prophets of Israel looked forward to the coming of the Messiah and the making of a new people. But they did not, and could not, fully understand what their prophecies meant. Their lack of understanding concerning their Messiah’s coming was pervasive. That was especially true concerning Jesus’ suffering and the glory that followed his resurrection. That lack of understanding existed even though the recorded Old Testament prophecies about the coming of Christ were given by the Holy Spirit. We value Scripture because the Spirit of God stands behind its origin and inspired the words that its prophets and writers shared. However, we need the Spirit’s help to fully understand them (1 Corinthians 2:6-14).
Today’s Prayer
Father God, please give me a deeper appreciation for Scripture. As I look into the words inspired by the Holy Spirit, may the Spirit convict my heart, open my mind, transform my will, and conform my behavior to Jesus’ righteous character and gracious compassion. As I read your words inspired by your Spirit, please mold me into the person you want me to be, dear Father. I ask for this grace in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Ⓒ 1996-2024 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. The Thoughts and Prayer for God’s Holy Fire are written by Phil Ware. Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
Scripture quotations marked MESSAGE are taken from THE MESSAGE, copyright © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress. All rights reserved. Represented by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.
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