NGULIK ALKITAB #114 - NABI ZAMAN AKHIR

The introduction of the Bible study focused on John 1:19-34, led by Pastor Mestika Hulu with guest Pastor Yohanes Bambang Mulyono. They aim to explore the relevance of the concept of the 'end-time prophet' in contemporary life through prayerful dialogue and scripture reading.

The discussion begins with an examination of who John the Baptist is, clarifying that he is not the Messiah, nor Elijah, or the prophet expected to come. John identifies himself as a voice calling to prepare the way for the Lord, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah, and announces Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

Pastor Yohanes elaborates on the distinction between the 'end of times' and the 'end times.' He emphasizes that discussions related to the end times can provoke conflicts and misunderstandings, even leading to religious wars, and highlights the necessity of studying the prophets in light of biblical theology and Judaism.

The concept of the 'end-time prophet,' particularly regarding the prophet Elijah's return as foretold in Malachi 4:5, is discussed. This signifies that before the great and terrible day of the Lord, Elijah would come, indicating a profound anticipation in Jewish theology about eschatological events.

Pastor Mestika raises critical concerns about why discussions of end-time prophecy often lead to turmoil, referencing the confusion and conflicts it can generate. This leads to the need for a clear understanding of scriptural teachings.

The guest pastor continues by interpreting Elijah's prophetic role and clarifying the relationship between the concept of end-times and Christian eschatology, asserting that Jesus' coming established the end times within a Christian context.

The idea of John the Baptist being seen as a reincarnation of Elijah is presented and debated. The pastor argues that while some interpret John in this way, the biblical texts clarify that he does not fulfill the criteria for being Elijah reincarnated due to differing theological implications.

They discuss how John the Baptist’s humility and role as the forerunner distinguish him from false prophets. John consistently points to Jesus for salvation, closer to Scripture teachings rather than drawing attention to himself.

The significance of understanding the roles of the end-time prophet and Christ, the Messiah, are emphasized. John brings repentance, while Christ embodies the fulfillment of promises and the bestowal of the Holy Spirit to believers, framing the key theological insights of the passage.

The spiritual relationship between John the Baptist and the Messiah is depicted as collaborative, with John paving the way for Christ’s ministry. They reinforce that true prophets guide towards Christ’s salvation without seeking personal glory, contrasting with false claims often seen in various groups today.