why is studying o.t. prophecy important?

Much of the Old Testament is comprised of prophetic writings. Unless we understand these principles and rules and let the Spirit of God give us insight and enlighten our understanding, a great deal of God's Word is going to be closed to us and merely viewed as history. God does not want it closed. The seals are loosed; understanding is being given.
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Hosea 4:6 says, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge," but if you know the truth, John 8:32 tells us, "The truth shall make you free." Truth will keep you free from falsity and error, but to be kept free, you must come to a "knowledge of the truth" (1 Timothy 2:4).  

Prophecy is a major portion of God's eternal Word. Prophetic writings constitute a whole host of Biblical books, and it is necessary we understand the truth concerning those writings. God, in His infinite wisdom, uses prophecy in a unique manner. He considers it vastly important, and it is indeed sure. He designed it "for our learning" (Romans 15:4). 
Studying brings understanding that prophecies are not to be relegated to some point out in the future, but they speak truths that are pertinent to us in the day and time in which we live.

Earl R. Borders

From the April 2025 issue of The Gospel Trumpeter