PROPHETIC POSTPONEMENT Part I

biblical literature | Definition, Types, Significance, Survey, & Development | Britannica

THE POPULAR ENCYCLOPEDIA OF BIBLE PROPHECY

PROPHETIC POSTPONEMENT

“Prophetic postponement” refers to the delay of a promised prophecy, often due to a required action from the recipient, the subjective nature of some prophecies, or God’s will. While the Bible presents examples of prophecies being delayed, such as in the Old Testament book of Isaiah (Isaiah 49:8), it is generally agreed that personal prophecies are conditional and require faith and action from the recipient to be fulfilled. 

Key concepts

  • Delay vs. denial: 

    God can postpone a prophecy without denying it. This can be seen in the example of Jesus delaying the kingdom, but not denying it. 

  • Conditional prophecy: 

    Unlike unconditional prophecies, which are guaranteed to come to pass, personal prophecies are often conditional and require the recipient’s active participation through faith and prayer. 

  • Examples of postponement:
    • Old Testament: 

      The prophets Isaiah and Ezekiel mention postponement in their prophecies. For example, God postponed the fulfillment of a promise of salvation in Isaiah 49:8 to an accepted time, which can be seen as a delayed prophecy. 

    • New Testament: The New Testament also presents examples of postponement, such as the prophecy of the Messiah’s second coming. 

How to handle postponed prophecies

  • Test the prophecy: 

    Before acting on a prophecy, it is essential to test its origin and ensure it aligns with biblical scripture. 

  • Pray and have faith: 

    Once a prophecy is confirmed, combine it with prayer and active faith. 

  • Engage in active compliance: 

    Don’t passively wait for a prophecy to be fulfilled. Actively comply with any conditions the prophecy may require. 

  • Trust God’s unchanging nature: 

    Even if a prophecy is delayed, choose to trust and worship God, acknowledging His unchanging nature. 

Online resources

  • Bible Hub:

    A topical Bible that provides definitions and biblical references related to “defer,” which includes “postpone”. 

  • ResearchGate:

    Features an academic paper on “The Postponed Kingdom,” which discusses the concept of postponement in biblical prophecy. 

  • YouTube:

    Offers various sermons and videos that discuss the concept of prophetic postponement and how to handle it, such as this video by Apostle John and this video by Prophetess Brenda. 

  • Precept Austin:

    A website that provides Bible references and study materials on prophecy. 

  • Greg Mohr Ministries:

    Discusses how to judge a prophetic word and what to do if a prophecy doesn’t seem to be coming to pass. 

  • Kris Vallotton:

    Offers resources on the purpose of prophecy, which can help in understanding how to interpret and apply prophetic words.