Mountain Peaks of Prophecy

Just as in other places (Isaiah 9:6, 61:1-2, Jeremiah 23:5-6, 1 Peter 1:10-11), the Old Testament prophets were able to see what is called “mountain peaks” of prophecy. It is like standing in front of a set of mountain peaks. You can see the peaks, but not the valleys in between. In the case of the Old Testament, these prophets saw parts of mountain peaks that related to God’s plan. In their case, they saw parts of Christ’s first coming (what we celebrate at Christmas). They also saw parts of Christ’s second coming (what we look forward to seeing as well). 

Unfortunately, these prophets did not see the work of salvation that Jesus would do during His first coming as separate from His work of judgment that Jesus would complete during His second coming. As a result, the prophets, like Amos, mostly spoke about judgment.

8:1-3 – We are ripe for judgment.

The Pattern of the Last Days

8:2 “end has come” God judges our actions and work.

God does not forget how we act. (8:7)

SYMPTOMS OF OUR PROBLEM – CONSUMERISM

8:9 “in that day” God begins His final judgment by turning the sky dark.

8:11 “the days are coming”

We are physically full and obese, but we are spiritually starving. (8:11)

How Do We Put Christ First This Christmas?

People are seeking the word of the Lord, and they need to find it (8:12).

1. Share Christ with others this Christmas

2. Read the Christmas story with others. They need to hear it.

3. Tell others why Christmas is important to you. People are desperate to know what you believe and why. 

Photo by Eila Lifflander on Unsplash

The Danger of Christmas Complacency