SYNOPSIS OF CHAPTER XXIV

Section II. Predictions and Influence.

I.

PREDICTIONS OF THE PROPHETS:

              1. Their Supernatural Character:

              On what principal grounds questioned in our century?

                            These rationalistic grounds

              Utterly inadequate.

                                          Clearly opposed to

              Veracity of prophets. Statements of Our Lord and New Testament writers.

              2. Their Manifold Object:

              The Jewish people; the heathen nations.

                            The Messias and His kingdom.

              3. Their Chief Characteristics:

              Moral and religious import.

                            Lack of ambiguity.

                            Obscurity (its principal causes).

                            Conditional fulfilment.

II.

INFLUENCE OF THE PROPHETS:

              1. Obstacles to be Overcome:

              Popular religious degeneracy (sensual idolatry; mere formalism).

                            Opposition of kings and princes.

                            Conditional character of prophetical predictions.

              2. Means of Success:

              Certain features of the prophetical institution.

                            Personal moral qualities of the prophets.

                            Preternatural powers.

              3. General Results (Moral—political—religious).