The concept of prophecy in the Bible often encompasses foretelling future events and providing divine guidance for the people of God. Within the New Testament, there are several instances where prophetic instructions are given concerning the future of the Church. These instructions serve as a blueprint for the Church's mission, conduct, and perseverance until the return of Christ.

Foundation and Mission of the Church

The prophetic foundation of the Church is laid by Jesus Christ Himself. In Matthew 16:18, Jesus declares, "And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it." This statement not only establishes the Church's divine origin but also assures its ultimate victory over evil.

The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:19-20, serves as a prophetic mandate for the Church's mission: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." This instruction underscores the Church's role in evangelism and discipleship, emphasizing the global scope of its mission.

Conduct and Order within the Church

The Apostle Paul provides prophetic instructions regarding the conduct and order within the Church. In 1 Timothy 3:15, Paul writes, "But if I am delayed, you will know how to conduct yourselves in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth." This verse highlights the Church's responsibility to uphold truth and maintain godly conduct.

Paul's letters to the Corinthians also address issues of order and spiritual gifts. In 1 Corinthians 14:26, he instructs, "What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, each of you has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Everything must be done so that the church may be built up." This guidance ensures that worship and spiritual gifts are exercised in a manner that edifies the Church.

Perseverance and Endurance

Prophetic warnings about challenges and persecution are prevalent in the New Testament. Jesus warns His disciples in John 16:33, "I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world." This prophecy prepares the Church for inevitable trials, encouraging believers to find peace in Christ's victory.

The Book of Revelation provides further prophetic insight into the Church's endurance. Revelation 2:10 exhorts, "Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Look, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison to test you, and you will suffer tribulation for ten days. Be faithful even unto death, and I will give you the crown of life." This message to the Church at Smyrna serves as a timeless call to faithfulness amidst persecution.

Unity and Diversity

The prophetic vision for the Church includes both unity and diversity. In Ephesians 4:11-13, Paul writes, "And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, as we mature to the full measure of the stature of Christ." This passage emphasizes the diverse roles within the Church, all contributing to its unity and maturity.

The Return of Christ

The ultimate prophetic instruction for the Church is to live in anticipation of Christ's return. In 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, Paul describes this event: "For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a loud command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will be the first to rise. After that, we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will always be with the Lord." This prophecy provides hope and motivation for the Church to remain steadfast in faith and mission.