THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
Why, then, do you consult the fortune-teller about what is to come? If they were to say, "This will happen; do this and avoid that," one might argue that although such idolatry is still wrong, it would not seem as irrational. However, when they attempt to foretell the future, the listener gains nothing but unwarranted grief; these forecasts often fail, leading them to experience sorrow anew and weariness from their previous trials. If knowing the future were truly beneficial, God would not keep it hidden from us, as if out of jealousy. The One who has revealed to us heavenly truths is not envious. "I have told you all things that I have heard from My Father," He affirms, and again, "I no longer call you servants, but friends: you are My friends" (John 15:14, 15).
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Why, then, has He not disclosed what is to come? Because He wishes for us not to be concerned with it. His choice was not motivated by jealousy; He granted insight into the future to the ancients, such as regarding a donkey and other matters, treating them as children. Yet, He has spared us from the anxiety of the unknown, desiring that we remain untroubled by it. Instead, what has been revealed to us? What the ancients were blind to. The knowledge given to them holds little significance for us; we are aware that we will rise again, that we shall know immortality and incorruption, that our lives shall be everlasting, that all things we see will come to an end, and that we “shall be caught up in the clouds” (1 Thess. 4:17). The unrighteous will face judgment, among many other truths, and all of these are indeed real. Is it truly of greater value to know that a lost donkey will be found? Imagine you discover and claim a donkey; what benefit does that bring? Could it not simply be lost again? Should it remain with you, remember, when death comes, you must relinquish it. Yet, what I have discussed is always available to us if only we desire it. Let us endeavor and pursue that which is eternal and unchanging; let us turn our ears away from sorcerers, fortune-tellers, and false prophets, and listen to God, who knows and understands all things. In doing so, we will glean all the knowledge we need and receive every good gift.