What Is Prophecy?

Prophecy is the act of speaking forth the word of God. This involves two main aspects. First, prophecy can mean announcing future events that God has ordained through his sovereign will, as seen in specific passages. Second, prophecy also involves the application of God’s known will to current events and circumstances, which is evident in much of the prophetic work found in the Old Testament.

Biblical Prophecy

Biblical prophecy is progressive—God reveals the mysteries of his will for his people over time. He chooses to do this, at least in part, because of our limited capacity to understand everything at once. As we read God’s Word, it is important to prayerfully consider these passages. Prophecy is always grounded in God’s will and his plan for the redemption of mankind. Sometimes, prophecy is seen as both “already and not yet”—in other words, some prophetic words are partially fulfilled in the present and will only be completely fulfilled in the future. The passage discussed here is an example of a prophecy with dual fulfillment.

Genesis 49:10

As we open the pages of Scripture, we encounter the ancient prophecy from Genesis 49:10 (ESV): “The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until tribute comes to him; and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples.” This promise, spoken generations before its fulfillment, set in motion a story that would unfold across centuries.

The first fulfillment of this prophecy is found in the life of King David, from the tribe of Judah. After Saul’s passing, David rose to the throne, becoming king over Israel. By conquering his adversaries, he brought safety and peace to his people. The nations around him responded with tribute, and David’s reign extended over many lands—a living testament to the prophecy’s words.

Fulfillment in Jesus Christ

Yet the story did not end there. Its second and greater fulfillment appeared in the life of Jesus Christ. His earthly father, Joseph, was of the tribe of Judah. Consider this profound passage of scripture.

Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:5-11 (ESV)

Here, the tribute is not gold or silver, but the worship of hearts and lives. Across nations and cultures, people surrender and offer their obedience to him. Although Jesus has already come and been crowned King of kings, the prophecy hints at a future moment when every person will fully recognize his sovereignty—a perfect union of “already” and “not yet.”

So, why does this ancient prophecy matter to us today?

First, it is God’s word—a living message that speaks across generations. It reminds us of the depth and intentionality of God’s plan for humanity, calling us to acknowledge the sovereignty of Jesus Christ. It urges us to look back to the Old Testament, to trace the unfolding revelation that leads to the coming Messiah, and to see how God is still actively working in our lives.

In our personal journeys, we witness God’s continuous revelation. We come to understand our need for salvation. And through his Word, fellowship, worship, and prayer, we grow spiritually, moving toward the goal of becoming more like Christ. God’s work is also orderly, teaching us the importance of prioritizing what matters most and avoiding distractions that pull us away from him.

Prophecy, while often seen as a message for all people, also holds deep personal significance. As God speaks forth his will, his words can touch our individual circumstances and guide us in ways that apply uniquely to our lives. It’s not about having our own private interpretation of Scripture, but rather discovering its personal application in the moments we live.

Your turn

As we reflect on Genesis 49:10, the narrative draws us to respond: to acknowledge Christ as Lord, to recognize his authority over all creation, and to embrace obedience to him—not out of mere duty, but out of love for his leadership and care.

This week as you continue with us in our journey through the Bible, here is your guidance and direction.

Weekly Reading: Genesis 48-50, Exodus 1-19 – break this down in daily readings that fit your schedule

Key points:

• Jacob’s blessing regarding Levi and Simeon were fulfilled when the land was divided as recorded in Joshua – Levi was scattered throughout the kingdom in specific towns while Simeon received his inheritance in the midst of the tribe of Judah.
• Despite his great reluctance, God used Moses to free his people and establish a covenant with them.

Questions for consideration:

1. How many excuses did Moses give God as to why he couldn’t do what God wanted him to do?  

• If God wants us to do something, what are our options? What does this look like in your life today?

• How is the first Passover significant? How does it foreshadow the crucifixion?

• How was the presence and glory of God manifested to the people of Israel?