Allusions, Images, Symbols:
How to Study Bible prophecy
Introduction:
The study of Bible prophecy is an essential part of understanding God’s divine plan for His people. Throughout the Scriptures, God has communicated His messages using allusions, images, and symbols, requiring careful interpretation through divine guidance. The prophetic word is not given in plain speech alone but is often conveyed through symbolic language, revealing profound spiritual truths that can only be discerned by those who seek the Holy Spirit’s illumination.
The Bible affirms the importance of prophecy in guiding God's people:
"Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but He revealeth His secret unto His servants the prophets." (Amos 3:7)
Jesus Himself employed symbols and parables to teach deep spiritual lessons, fulfilling what was written:
"I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old." (Psalm 78:2; cf. Matthew 13:35)
Thus, understanding prophecy necessitates an appreciation of the symbols, images, and allusions that the Bible employs.
The Spirit of Prophecy on Prophetic Symbols
Ellen G. White consistently emphasized the importance of studying Bible prophecy. She wrote:
"The student of the Bible should be taught to approach it in the spirit of a learner. We are to search its pages, not for proof to sustain our opinions, but in order to know what God says." (Education, p. 189)
This principle is vital when studying prophetic imagery. Many mistakenly impose personal interpretations on prophecy rather than allowing the Bible to explain itself. White also warns that a failure to study prophecy leaves God’s people unprepared for the events to come:
"None but those who have fortified the mind with the truths of the Bible will stand through the last great conflict." (The Great Controversy, p. 593)
Thus, understanding how to interpret prophetic symbols is a crucial skill for every believer in these last days.
The Shepherd’s Rod on Symbols and Images in Prophecy
The Shepherd’s Rod writings provide further insights into the method of interpreting prophetic symbols. In Tract No. 5, the author explains that the correct approach to prophecy is allowing the Bible to interpret itself, ensuring that no private interpretation distorts the divine message:
"To correctly understand the truth, one must let the symbols explain themselves by the Scriptures, else confusion and uncertainty are bound to result." (Tract No. 5, p. 10)
Moreover, prophecy is progressive—its full significance is understood as events unfold. The Rod further states:
"Since the light of truth is ever shining on the path of the just (Prov. 4:18), and since the Spirit of Truth is to lead into all truth (John 16:13), then every new development must necessarily be interpreted by the light of previous truths." (SRod, Vol. 1, p. 14)
This principle underscores the progressive nature of prophetic understanding—God reveals truth in due time, building upon previous revelations.
Key Methods for Studying Prophetic Allusions, Images, and Symbols
To rightly divide the word of truth concerning prophetic symbols, several key principles must be followed:
Allow the Bible to Interpret Itself – Scripture must explain Scripture. When encountering symbols, look for their meaning elsewhere in the Bible (e.g., Daniel’s beasts explained in Daniel 7:17, Revelation’s waters interpreted in Revelation 17:15).
Understand the Historical and Contextual Setting – Biblical prophecies often reference real historical events or cultural settings, providing a framework for proper interpretation.
Compare with the Spirit of Prophecy and Inspired Commentary – The writings of Ellen White and the Shepherd’s Rod help shed light on complex prophetic passages.
Recognize the Progressive Nature of Truth – Prophetic understanding unfolds over time, requiring continued study and prayerful seeking of divine guidance.
Pray for the Holy Spirit’s Guidance – As prophecy is a revelation from God, only through the Spirit’s leading can we discern its full meaning (John 16:13).
Conclusion
As we embark on this study of Allusions, Images, and Symbols in Bible Prophecy, we must approach the Word of God with humility, seeking divine wisdom. The prophecies were given for our learning and preparation, that we may discern the signs of the times and stand firm in our faith.
May this quarter’s study deepen our understanding and strengthen our faith as we unlock the prophetic messages that God has given for these last days.