By Evan Knies

Alan Bandy is assistant professor of New Testament at Oklahoma Baptist University in Shawnee, Oklahoma, and is a contributing author to the Biblical Theology of the New Testament series.

Benjamin Merkle is professor of New Testament and Greek at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina. He is the author of 40 Questions About Elders and Deacons and editor of the 40 Questions Series.

Understanding Prophecy provides a proper overview of prophetic theology from Genesis to Revelation. This work is divided into 3 main parts: Introducing Biblical Prophecy, Old Testament Prophecies, and New Testament Prophecies. I think this work is formatted very well for the reader no matter how much he/she knows about the subject. This work is key in a day where this subject has been abused or neglected.

Why is this book beneficial for readers in the South?

1. In regards to prophecy in the church culture in the south, the church really abuses and misinterprets what prophecy is shown as in the Bible. The authors define prophecy in the Bible as, “Prophecy is primarily forth-telling in that the prophet speaks a word from God to address a current situation in the life of his covenant people”. As stewards of God’s word, I think this work can help Christians clearly articulate what prophecy is and be able to address situations, churches and people who abuse God’s word.
2. The second part of this book shows the Old Testament Prophecies and how they point to the Messiah. Reading this section will make Pastors, Students, and Church Members stronger in the Old Testament
3. In the third section, the authors show how the prophecies regard the coming of the Messiah. WE know that our Messiah, our King, and our Ruler is Jesus Christ. But the authors cover the prophecies regarding the return of the Messiah as well. This section will provide comfort and assurance for those awaiting the King to return in whatever situation they may be in on this side of Heaven.

Friends, may we be great stewards of God’s word. You only get one life and it will soon pass, only what is done for Christ will last!

Evan Knies is an undergrad student at Boyce College and Louisiana Native. You can follow him on Twitter @Evan_Knies