The BIG Picture (Q&A)

Consider the following question: Paul writes in Ephesians 4:11 that Christ "gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers," as gifts to the Body of Christ. Yet in 1 Corinthians 13:8, he says, "Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away." Don’t these verses contradict each other in regard to prophecy? At face value, these verses seem to conflict —how can prophets and prophecy be both a gift given to the Body and something that eventually ceases? Well, the answer is quite simple. When we rightly divide the Word of truth (2 Tim. 2:15), we see they’re speaking to different contexts and purposes within God’s unfolding plan. Ephesians 4:11 – Gifts for the Edifying of the Body “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.” This verse describes g...

"Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In those days it shall come to pass, that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you." — Zechariah 8:23 (KJV) A Prophecy of Israel’s Future Prominence This verse reveals a profound prophecy concerning Israel’s restoration and role in the future millennial kingdom . It describes a time when people from all nations will seek out Israel , recognising that God’s presence and blessing are uniquely upon them . The image of Gentiles taking hold of the skirt of a Jew is symbolic of their desire to be associated with God's chosen people , acknowledging His divine favour upon Israel. The phrase "In those days" refers to a future period , distinct from the current dispensation. This is not a reference to our present age of grace , but rather to the time when Christ establishes His earthly reign as ...