What Jesus, the Prophets, and the Bible Mean for Us Today
Let’s take a closer look at some important things Jesus said, and what the Bible teaches about Him. You don’t have to be a theologian to understand these ideas—let’s break them down in everyday language.
What Did Jesus Mean When He Called His Followers “Foolish” and “Slow to Believe”?
In Luke 24:25-27, after Jesus came back to life (the resurrection), He met some of His followers. They were walking down the road. These friends were confused and saddened because Jesus had died. They didn’t yet realize that He had risen from the dead. Jesus said to them, “How foolish you are! How slow of heart you are to believe all that the prophets have spoken!” Did not the Christ (Messiah) have to suffer these things and then enter His glory?”
What was Jesus getting at? He reminded them that everything that happened was already spoken of by the prophets. This included His suffering and death. The prophets are the messengers of God in the Old Testament part of the Bible. The prophets said that the Messiah (the chosen one sent by God) would have to suffer. That wouldn’t be the end. Afterward, He would be honored and glorified. In other words, the hard part was part of the plan, and it led to something amazing.
Jesus wasn’t criticizing His friends because they were dumb. He was pointing out that they were missing the big picture. The facts were there, written in their scriptures, but they hadn’t put it all together. He wanted them to see that God’s promises had come true, even if it wasn’t in the way they expected.
The Fulfillment of Prophecy: Why Did the Messiah Have to Suffer?
Let’s look at another passage: Acts 3:18. It says, “But the things which God announced beforehand by the mouth of all the prophets, God fulfilled. His Christ should suffer.” God had already told everyone what was going to happen. This message came through His messengers. The suffering of Jesus wasn’t a surprise mistake or an accident—it was exactly what God said would happen. And when it finally happened, God kept His word.
So what’s the big deal about Jesus suffering? In simple terms, Christians believe that Jesus took on the weight of all the things people have done wrong (sin). His suffering and death on the cross were the price for that. But after that, He rose from the dead, showing that death and sin were defeated. This is why Christians celebrate the cross and the resurrection. They do so, not because pain is good. Instead, it led to forgiveness, hope, and new life for everyone who believes.
What Has Christianity Done for the World?
Whether you’re a believer or just curious, there’s no doubt that Christianity has shaped the world in big ways. The heart of all the good that has come from Christianity goes back to Jesus. He showed people how to love their neighbors. He taught them to care for the sick. He helped them understand the importance of assisting the poor. He encouraged treating others with kindness and respect. These teachings have inspired hospitals, schools, charities, and movements for justice and human rights across the globe.
Of course, like any movement, there have been times when people claimed to act in the name of Christianity. Yet, they did things that went against what Jesus taught. But the true good—compassion, mercy, forgiveness—comes from following Jesus’ example.
Think of all the hospitals, orphanages, and food banks started by Christians. Think about movements to end slavery, promote equality, and care for the vulnerable. At the core, it’s the message of Jesus—love your neighbor as yourself—that has driven so much positive change.
The Bible: God’s Message to Humanity
So, why do Christians trust the Bible? They believe it’s not just a book written by humans but a divine revelation—it’s God’s way of speaking to people. The Bible is a collection of books written over hundreds of years by many different people. Yet, it tells a single story about God’s love for humanity. It narrates the struggle with good and evil. It also conveys the hope of redemption.
God gave this evidence—these stories, teachings, prophecies, and promises—so that anyone who wants to know the truth can find it. It’s not about shutting down questions or forcing belief. It’s about offering the facts. It’s about sharing the history and the experiences of real people who encountered God in their lives. Those who are willing to look at the evidence with an open mind can discover the truth for themselves.
For example, the prophecies mentioned earlier were written hundreds of years before Jesus was born. They were about the Messiah suffering and then being honored. Jesus’ life matched these predictions. Christians see this as solid evidence that God kept His promises and that the Bible can be trusted.
Faith and Evidence: Finding the Balance
Some people think faith means believing blindly, but that’s not the whole story. The Bible invites people to look at the facts: the prophecies, the teachings, the life and resurrection of Jesus. It’s okay to have questions. In fact, seeking answers is encouraged. The evidence is available for those who wish to examine it. Faith involves trusting what the evidence indicates, even if we can’t see every detail.
Conclusion: The Invitation to Discover
You don’t need to be a scholar to understand what Jesus was saying. You don’t need to be a scholar to see the impact He’s had on the world. His message is for everyone. God loves you. He’s given you evidence of that love through Jesus and the Bible. If you’re curious, take a look at what the prophets said, what Jesus did, and how Christianity has changed lives. The facts speak for themselves, and the invitation is open to all.
Minister A Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 