The authors of the New Testament recognized that they were in the last days (cf. Heb. 1:2). At the time of the writing, however, there were some things to take place in those days that were yet future. However, these future events were described as taking place soon. We need not read their expectation of…
To help us appreciate the context, we must realize that the prophetic activity had ended with Malachi’s work. The Jews living at that time understood that the Holy Spirit would return in the “last days.” Two observations about this period before the “last days” will assist in “handling the word of truth” (1 Tim. 3:15). …
The arrival of the Holy Spirit that was promised was a sign of the end of the age. The miraculous powers provided the needed proof that several events that we will be exploring were soon approaching. Nature of Signs The first obvious implication of a sign is that it be visible or observable. It is…