Mike’s Musings …
PROGNOSTICATION
We usually use the word when talking about the weather. Webster defines it as “the act or power of foretelling events or signs of something to come,” and since weather is often forecast, the “scientific” name we give to weathermen is “prognosticators.” From its definition, the word applies to those who attempt predictions of the future, including the destiny of the soul!
But today, can one can accurately prognosticate? By using “if this, then that” logic, based on unchanging law (i.e., God’s law), one can accurately declare future events. One glaring example is the inspired word of Peter from 2 Peter 1: 10 – 11: “Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” The things we are obligated to do are found in verses 1 – 9. The contrast is also true: if we do not do these things, we will fall, and an entrance will not be permitted into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Therefore, using the “if this, then that” logic based on God’s word, we can rightly prognosticate some things of the future! Of course, this logical reasoning requires adherence to God’s commandments. “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city” is another fact. Its contrast is also true: if we do not keep His commandments, we have no right to the tree of life and cannot enter through the gates into the city. (Revelation 22:14) That’s factual prognostication!
This isn’t “judging” someone eternally: it is using GOD’S WORD with logical conclusion, established from His word alone! God is not a negotiator! We either obey His commandments, or we don’t. Every action has its consequences, and Jesus said so. Notice: “Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.” (John 5:28 – 29)
While I muse (in this case, “prognosticate”) on the future regarding weather and desires, there’s no need to “prognosticate” regarding the salvation of the soul! The inspired apostle John wrote, “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.” (1 John 5:13) That’s a comforting promise!