Some people believe that the Bible is merely a haphazard collection of ancient writings. But we have good reason to believe it is God’s inspired Word. For example, the Bible contains prophecies that have been fulfilled. Centuries before specific events took place, the writers of Scripture predicted their occurrence, and in the course of time those events came to pass.

No matter how farsighted we may be, we cannot foretell the future with any precision. Indeed, our best guesses often turn out to be wrong. Here are some examples:

“Airplanes are interesting toys but of no military value.” Who said that? A renowned professor of military strategy. “Stocks have reached what looks like a permanently high plateau.” This pronouncement was made by a distinguished economist just before the financial crash of 1929.

The Bible, however, is filled with dramatic examples of fulfilled prophecy. Isaiah 52:13–53:12 and Psalm 22:1-18 record details about the crucifixion of Christ hundreds of years before this cruel form of execution was ever practiced.

When we pick up the Bible, we are holding in our hands the one authoritative divine revelation of truth—a claim verified by fulfilled prophecy.—Vernon Grounds

When we look beyond the manger
To the cross of Calvary,
We will know the reason Christmas
Brings such joy to you and me.—D. De Haan

Reflections: What prophecies can we look forward to?

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God always keeps His word.

Insight:

Psalm 22 is part of a trilogy of psalms that prophesied the coming Christ. In Psalm 22, He is depicted as the suffering Savior. In Psalm 23, Jesus is the loving Shepherd. In Psalm 24, Christ is seen as the sovereign King. Taken together, in these songs we see Christ’s ministry in all realms—past, present, and future. He came in the past to die for our sins, He is alive today caring for His flock, and He will one day rule over all as King over kings and Lord over lords.