Samuel — Prophet and LeaderSample

A Reliable Prophet

Samuel is a prophet of God, and this becomes apparent when his prophecies are fulfilled. This is a characteristic of true prophecy, as described in Deuteronomy 18:22 (long before Samuel’s days): “When a prophet speaks in the name of the LORD, if the word does not come to pass or come true, that is a word that the LORD has not spoken” (ESV). Samuel’s words came true, and he thereby proved to be a faithful and authoritative prophet.

The same applies to God’s Word as we have it: the Bible. The Bible contains many prophecies, some of which are very specific and were recorded centuries before their fulfillment—and the majority of them have already come true. Some of God’s promises and judgments are still awaiting their fulfillment, since they apply to the last days.

Given that God’s Word has proven to be reliable, it is also authoritative. We’d better take it to heart. Do you take the Bible seriously?